WHAT'S HOT: HOW AUSSIES WILL HOLIDAY THIS YEAR

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 road trips continuing to dominate.

Travellers want holidays that start when they leave the driveway, not after a long-haul slog.

Nature-first holidays are also holding strong.

Coastal, riverside and bush settings remain hot and in high demand, with space, fresh air and time outdoors now non-negotiables rather than nice-to-haves.

Comfort-led camping is another big winner. Glamping, tiny homes, and cabins offer the perks of camping without the backache, appealing to travellers who want immersion in nature with a few creature comforts thrown in.

Shoulder-season travel is emerging as the savvy choice, with post-Christmas January, February and early autumn increasingly popular for those keen to dodge peak crowds and peak prices.

There is also a noticeable rise in solo and slow travel. More Australians are choosing to go it alone and visit fewer destinations, swapping box-ticking for deeper, more meaningful experiences.

Comfort-led camping is another big winner

What's Not in 2026

High-pressure itineraries are on the way out, with jam-packed schedules and relentless destination-hopping losing their appeal.

Overcrowded peak periods are also being actively avoided, as travellers steer clear of school holiday congestion wherever possible.

One-size-fits-all holidays are fading fast, replaced by trips tailored to different life stages, budgets and travel styles.

And constant screen time is no longer welcome. Travellers are actively seeking simpler stays that encourage switching off, as burnout continues to shape how people spend their downtime.

A more intentional approach

Nick Baker, CEO of Reflections Holidays, says the shift reflects a bigger change in mindset.

Nick says,: “Australians are becoming much more intentional about how they holiday. It’s no longer about doing more; it’s about feeling better when you get home. In 2026,

"Aussies will be prioritising trips away that are easy to get to, grounded in nature, and genuinely restorative, whether that’s a weekend by the coast or inland.”