Cost-of-living pressures are reshaping how Australians travel, with new data revealing a clear shift towards cheaper, more flexible holiday planning.

Rising fuel prices and ongoing cost-of-living pressures are forcing Australians to rethink how they holiday, with a growing number opting for shorter trips, regional destinations and lower-cost options.

New research from iSelect shows Aussies are becoming increasingly strategic about travel, trading convenience for savings as financial pressures and global uncertainty linger.

Australia’s coastline has once again taken centre stage, with a spectacular stretch of sand in Sydney’s south officially crowned the nation’s best beach destination for 2026.

Dreaming of a beach break without the crowds? From car-free river hideaways to relaxed surf towns, these lesser-known coastal destinations offer natural beauty, fresh sea air and space to truly switch off this summer.

Rising overseas medical costs are failing to deter a significant number of Australians from travelling without insurance, according to new research highlighting growing financial risks for holidaymakers.

After several years dominated by so-called “micro” movements, from pandemic-era micro-credentials to last year’s rise of micro-retirement, a new trend is shaping how Australians take time off. This time, it is all about travel.

Across New South Wales, travellers are still heading outdoors, but doing so differently. Increasingly, they want immersion without inconvenience. Nature, yes. Stress, no.

While the rankings paint a picture of aspiration and escape, the research ultimately serves a commercial purpose. As a comparison platform, iSelect’s focus extends beyond inspiration to the practicalities and risks of travel, particularly insurance.

Travellers are increasingly seeking journeys that leave them refreshed Australians are rethinking how they holiday, with more people trading fast-paced itineraries and traditional beach escapes for travel experiences centred on wellbeing, connection, and cultural immersion. Rather than simply ticking off bucket-list destinations or switching off from daily life, travellers are increasingly seeking journeys that leave them feeling physically refreshed, mentally reset, and more

Short, drive-to breaks are firmly in favour, Australians are rethinking how they travel, and in 2026 the message is clear: less rushing, more breathing space, and holidays that actually feel like a break. New travel patterns emerging ahead of the year point to a decisive shift away from frantic itineraries and overcrowded peak periods, towards slower, simpler and more restorative escapes. Hot in 2026 Short, drive-to breaks are firmly in favour, with weekend escapes and easy r

If planning a holiday with friends or a partner feels more stressful than exciting, astrology might have something to say about it. Psychic World has team up with astrologer Inbaal Honigman, who says some star sign pairings are practically doomed once passports come out and itineraries appear. From clashing sleep schedules to opposing ideas of what counts as fun, here are the zodiac combinations most likely to argue over taxis, tourist traps and bedtime in 2026. Leo and Scorp