WHY MORE AUSSIES ARE CHOOSING CABINS OVER FIVE-STAR HOTELS

Cabins, roadside motels and regional accommodation are becoming more appealing

Luxury travel has long been associated with five-star hotels, fine dining and lavish resorts.

But new research suggests many Australians are redefining what a premium holiday looks like, opting instead for road trips, regional destinations and simple accommodation that offers freedom rather than extravagance.

According to research from East Coast Car Rentals, younger Australians are leading the shift, with 77 per cent of people aged 18 to 24 saying road trips with friends or family are among their most memorable travel experiences.

The findings suggest travellers are increasingly prioritising flexibility, connection and authentic experiences over luxury hotel stays.

Travel is becoming more personal

The research found 92 per cent of Australians would prefer to holiday somewhere that isn't popular on Instagram, highlighting a growing appetite for destinations away from the usual tourist hotspots.

Cabins, roadside motels and regional accommodation are becoming more appealing as travellers seek slower, less structured holidays that allow them to explore at their own pace.

East Coast Car Rentals' Chief Marketing Officer, Ben Whitmore, said perceptions of luxury are changing.

"We're seeing a shift in what Australians value when they travel," he said.

"Luxury isn't necessarily about five-star service anymore. For many people, it's about having the freedom to explore, reconnect with loved ones and create memories that feel genuine and lasting."

Young people say road trips with friends or family are among their most memorable travel experiences.

No longer defined by price

While older Australians are often drawn to cabins and motels through nostalgia for family holidays, younger travellers are embracing them for different reasons.

Affordable accommodation allows them to travel more often, escape busy routines, and spend more time exploring regional Australia.

Whitmore said cost-of-living pressures are encouraging travellers to become more deliberate about where they spend their money.

"People are becoming more intentional with their budgets and are increasingly choosing road trips, regional destinations and simpler accommodation options that allow them to stretch their money further," he said.

Rather than being defined by star ratings or exclusive experiences, luxury travel is increasingly about having the time, freedom and flexibility to disconnect from everyday life.

For many Australians, that now means swapping the hotel concierge for an open road, a regional town and a cabin with a view.