Environmental consciousness and a desire for mindful choices are actively driving spring travel trends.
According to Booking.com’s latest Travel and Sustainability Report, 83% of Aussie travellers are now prioritising sustainable travel.
This sustainability-first mindset is shaping why Australians are sticking with familiar domestic favourites while simultaneously broadening their horizons across fast-rising Southeast Asian destinations.
These travellers are seeking authentic, rewarding experiences that align with their evolving values and travel preferences.
Domestically, the top 10 most-searched destinations remain unchanged year-on-year, led by Sydney, Melbourne and the Gold Coast. However, regional destinations continue to gain ground.
Geelong is the standout mover, jumping nine places to #24, while Port Macquarie (+3), Townsville (+2), Launceston (+2), Byron Bay (+1), Newcastle (+1) and Maroochydore (+1) have all climbed the rankings.
This regional momentum aligns with a broader shift away from the crowds, with 43% of Aussie travellers now planning to avoid overcrowded tourist destinations and 42% choosing to travel outside of peak season.
Internationally, Tokyo retains its position as Australia’s most-searched overseas destination for Spring, while Bali continues to dominate travel consideration, with seven destinations featuring in the international top 25.
But the strongest momentum is coming from emerging hotspots, with Uluwatu (+8) and Sanur (+7) recording the biggest gains among top-ranked destinations.
These choices directly reflect changing traveller priorities: with 83% of Aussie travellers prioritising sustainable travel, 72% factoring extreme weather risks into destination choices and 43% actively planning to avoid overcrowded tourist spots.
Aussies are intentionally opting for less crowded coastal havens, cooler shoulder-season timing and easily accessible regional hubs.
Elsewhere, Seoul climbed four places to #19, while Ho Chi Minh City entered the top 25 at #25. Rome and Queenstown also moved higher, highlighting Australians’ appetite for both established favourites and new experiences across the region and beyond.
“As Australians look towards a spring break, we’re seeing travel choices that reflect a desire for sanctuary closer to home or across the region,” said Todd Lacey, Regional Manager for Oceania and Korea at Booking.com
“We’re seeing a real appetite for our Pacific neighbours alongside a strong preference for domestic exploration.
“Our Booking.com Travel & Sustainability Report for 2026 shows that Aussie travellers are continuing to evolve how they approach sustainability, actively choosing destinations that align with their budget and travel preferences while avoiding overcrowded spots.
“This pivot toward more accessible, familiar, and rewarding destinations perfectly captures the holiday spirit Australians are craving.”
Top 10 most searched international and domestic locations by Aussies for Spring 2026
- Sydney
- Melbourne
- Gold Coast
- Tokyo
- Brisbane
- Seminyak
- London
- Singapore
- Roma
- Paris
Top 10 most searched domestic locations
- Sydney
- Melbourne
- Gold Coast
- Brisbane
- Perth
- Adelaide
- Cairns
- Canberra
- Hobart
- Noosa Heads
