For Aussies, travel is a sky-high priority. In fact, it’s hard to keep us grounded. According to Skyscanner, 43 per cent of us plan on jetsetting more in 2025.
And while the wanderlust is real, so is the cost-of-living crisis. But holidaymakers aren’t letting it rain on the parade.
A recent Finder survey found nearly half of us are planning on tightening the belt to fund a getaway in the next 12 months.
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However, there’s good news for travellers waiting on the horizon.
Affordable adventures await
Prices for flights to many popular destinations are set to drop in 2025.
Skyscanner’s Jarrod Kris said, “next year the price of travel is definitely more affordable in certain destinations”.
Flights to Thailand’s famous Krabi have dropped by 34 per cent for travel next year. European gems Belfast, Madrid, and Budapest are also getting friendlier on the wallet, with decreases of 26 per cent. And if Japan’s on your radar, flights to the tropical islands of Okinawa will be a cool 25 per cent cheaper.
“Now we’re seeing some of the top trending destinations from 2024, like Bali and Japan, being shifted off their pedestals, and now we’re getting a top five of the most affordable destinations”
Skyscanner’s cheapest places to fly in 2025
1. Krabi, Thailand (34% price drop)
2. Belfast, Northern Ireland (26% price drop)
3. Madrid, Spain (26% price drop)
4. Budapest, Hungary (26% price drop)
5. Okinawa, Japan (25% price drop)
Discovering the new
Skyscanner also anticipates Australians will shake things up and embrace the roads less travelled.
“Aussies are certainly going out on a limb and looking to explore into different areas, some of the lesser known and less popular destinations,” Jarrod says.
Siem Reap in Cambodia, has seen a staggering 529 per cent increase in flight searches.
Other rising stars include Krabi (again!), Busuanga in the Philippines (+125 per cent), Deagu in South Korea (+123 per cent), and Rovaniemi, Finland (+118 per cent).
Skyscanner’s most popular places for 2025
1. Siem Reap, Cambodia (+529% increase in flight searches)
2. Krabi, Thailand (+141% increase in flight searches)
3. Busuanga, Philippines (+125% increase in flight searches)
4. Deagu, South Korea (+123% increase in flight searches)
5. Rovaniemi, Finland (+118% increase in flight searches)
Expedia’s 2025 travel trends
But it’s not just about where to go; it’s also about how we go. Expedia’s Unpack ‘25 report has unveiled the trends set to dominate next year.
Darren Karshagen from Expedia says “some of the travel trends that we are seeing, it’s really a common trend of disconnection, also moving away from the crowds, but also securing those unique treasures”.
“Season swapping” is one expected to gain traction. It’s all about doing a 180 on popular seasonal destinations and going at the polar opposite season.
Leave the skis and head to the Snowy Mountains in summer? Or venture to Darwin during the wet season? Not only do you beat the rush, but you can also score savings — up to 22 per cent off accommodation in Cairns and a jaw-dropping 122 per cent in Darwin!
Move over FOMO, hello JOMO!
As we embrace our travel plans, many Aussies are swapping FOMO (fear of missing out) for JOMO (joy of missing out).
It’s a move away from the hustle and bustle of cities and swapping for destinations where you can unplug and recharge.
Darren says “experiencing JOMO travel reduces stress and anxiety, and really allows them to connect with their loved ones.”
So, whether you’re ready to chase the sun or discover hidden gems, pack your bags and get set for an unforgettable journey. Adventure is calling, there’s plenty to check out, before you check-in.