Travel is increasingly being viewed as an important source of wellbeing for Australians, with new research showing the benefits can begin well before departure and continue to influence how people plan their trips.
Booking.com’s inaugural Travel Happiness Index found 97% of Australian travellers associate travel with positive emotions, while 80% said having a trip to look forward to lifts their mood.
Almost three-quarters (72%) said the anticipation of travel helps them cope with the demands of everyday life.
More than half (57%) would extend a trip to allow additional time to rest and recharge, while 70% prioritise local food and meaningful experiences when planning. Another 65% are prepared to choose destinations or travel dates according to available deals.
Todd Lacey, Booking.com Regional Manager Oceania and Korea, said travel was increasingly about more than just the destination.
“For many Aussies, travel is more than just about getting away, it is about feeling better, having something to look forward to, reconnecting and having the confidence to keep exploring even when the world feels uncertain,” Mr Lacey said.
Australians are also proving reluctant to abandon travel when plans are disrupted. Some 89% said they would adapt rather than cancel, with 26% opting to postpone, 25% choosing another destination with a similar feel and 13% changing the timing or length of their trip.
Nature emerged as one of the strongest contributors to a satisfying holiday, cited by 30% of respondents, followed by quality time with travel companions at 28% and good food and drink at 19%. Family holidays were considered the most enjoyable form of travel by 48%.
Technology is also influencing how Australians plan, with 78% saying digital tools make organising and booking trips easier.
Seven in 10 use tools including search engines, booking platforms and AI to compare options, while 85% said booking through a trusted platform makes them feel more at ease.
Dr Gina Cleo, Behavioural and Habit Expert, said the anticipation of a trip could itself contribute to emotional wellbeing.
“Our brains respond not just to rewards, but also to the anticipation of them,” Dr Cleo said. “When everyday life feels demanding, having something meaningful on the horizon can be incredibly powerful.”
The research surveyed 10,136 travellers aged 21 and over across 10 Asia Pacific markets, including 1,011 Australians.
