Travel pioneers AAT Kings, recently conducted consumer research across Australia and New Zealand, aimed at deciphering the post-COVID traveller mindset, and what is in store for domestic and international travel in 2023.
Through surveying 850 travellers, AAT Kings has uncovered key insights around post-COVID travel preferences, that unveil:
57% of people agree or strongly agree that the limited ability to travel during COVID has made them want to travel more
48% of Australians will prioritise domestic or interstate travel post COVID
In the 55+ age group, only 19% will prioritise International travel (vs 27% for under 55’s) – which indicates the huge opportunity for domestic travel is here to stay
37% of people are planning a trans-Tasman holiday (and 51% people who would consider a Guided Holiday are planning a trans-Tasman holiday)
When it comes to new-year trends, 2023 is set to be another year of strong domestic travel, and an even bigger year for New Zealand, after getting back on the map as a destination open to all. As part of the survey, among Australians considering a Guided Holiday:
43% are considering travel to the Great Barrier Reef/Queensland
54% are considering a trip to New Zealand’ South Island – which is an increase of over 10% compared to last year
49% are considering New Zealand’s North Island as a destination now that the border has been opened
South Australia and Adelaide, is a particularly desirable destination for those considering a Guided Holiday from regional areas – with almost 40% considering a trip (+7% compared to last year) and more than 30% saying it is somewhere they would like to visit on a guided holiday (double last years’ number)
The NT remains a top destination, with over 40% of respondents considering a trip to either the Top End or Red Centre
Perth and WA continue to showcase popularity with an almost stable 30% of Guided Holiday considerers intending to visit
Commenting on the results, AAT Kings CEO, Ben Hall, said, “With a century-long history filled with adventure, pioneering characters, passionate storytellers, cultural connection and pushing boundaries to create remarkable experiences, AAT Kings is in a unique position to help guide the industry as we head towards the new year.
“We are seeing strong trends towards NT, QLD and SA when it comes to Australian travel, with the domestic trend set to well and truly maintain popularity into 2023. Travellers are also set to get reacquainted with New Zealand with this magnificent country now reopened to all,” he continued.
The recent findings have heavily advised AAT Kings’ recently announced 2023/2024 season, with four new tours including:
The 8-Day South Australian Outback Adventure which takes in the Flinders Ranges, Coober Pedy and stunning geological wonders like the Lyndhurst Ochre cliffs and Painted Hills at Anna Creek.
The 7-day South Australian Eyre Peninsula Escape. With Streaky Bay and the famous coffin bay oysters, plus answer to WA’s wave rock (Pildappa rock) and the town of Kimba.
The 5-day Remarkable Adelaide to Kangaroo Island tour is food, wine and nature all in one. Explore Kangaroo Island’s rugged coastline, and take in all the highlights from nature to cider, wineries and honey – At Island Beehive, samples of honey (and ice cream) are given to our guests – honey made using Ligurian bees.
The 4-day Outback Explorer includes a visit to the Clare Valley and Coober Pedy plus the remarkable salt flats of Lake Hart – it’s all lunar landscapes at the surface, and psychedelic colours underground.
Connect with us – @AATKingsAustralia #AATKings #MakeTravelMatter @inspiringjourneys
