HOLIDAY COST-CUTTING CHANGING HOW AUSSIES TRAVEL
- Brian Westlake
- 8 hours ago
- 2 min read
As cost-of-living pressures continue to bite, holiday cost-cutting is reshaping the way Australians plan their trips, from when they fly to where they stay.
New research from iSelect shows Aussies are becoming increasingly strategic about travel, trading convenience for savings as financial pressures and global uncertainty linger.
Holiday cost-cutting drives off-peak travel
Over half of Australians who have changed their plans now opt to travel during off-peak seasons.
The data reveal that 55 per cent are travelling outside peak periods, while 54 per cent are booking flights at less popular times of day to secure cheaper fares.
Budget airlines are also seeing a lift, with 39 per cent of travellers choosing lower-cost carriers over full-service options.
It is a clear shift in mindset. The holiday is still happening, but the way people get there is being reworked.
Holiday cost-cutting sparks domestic switch
For some, holiday cost-cutting is going even further, changing the destination altogether.
More than a quarter of Australians are now choosing domestic holidays instead of heading overseas, while 25 per cent are cutting accommodation costs by staying with friends or family.
It is less about cancelling travel plans and more about reshaping them into something that feels financially manageable.
Price now outweighs convenience
Holiday cost-cutting is also influencing what matters most when booking.
Price has become the top priority for 31 per cent of travellers, ahead of factors such as travel time and convenience. Direct or shorter travel time ranks second at 24 per cent, while convenient departure and arrival times sit at 16 per cent.
In other words, people are willing to sacrifice a bit of comfort if it means keeping their budget intact.
Flexibility is the new travel luxury
According to iSelect spokesperson Sophie Ryan, flexibility is emerging as one of the most effective ways to save.
Adjusting travel dates, considering alternative routes, and being open to different destinations can unlock significant savings, particularly as flight disruptions continue to impact pricing and availability.
She also notes that travellers should not overlook costs beyond flights and accommodation, including travel insurance and unexpected expenses, which can quickly add up.
