A stunning 49% of Australians have placed travel at the top of their savings agenda for 2025, according to a nationwide survey by financial comparison platform Money.com.au. As the New Year unfolds, the findings underline a seismic shift in economic priorities, with Australians increasingly valuing experiences over traditional monetary goals.

The survey, which polled a representative sample of 1,000 Australians, highlighted travel as the most popular savings goal, overshadowing building emergency funds (44%), retirement savings (32%), purchasing property (25%), and investing in shares or real estate (19%).

The Growing Passion for Travel

Money.com.au’s finance expert Sean Callery contextualized the trend: “Travel is clearly a priority for Australians heading into 2025, ahead of other major financial goals like buying a house or investing. This highlights a growing trend of valuing experiences and making memories alongside traditional financial security and planning for tomorrow.”

Callery also noted many Australians’ commitment toward achieving this goal, with a third of respondents admitting to saving for up to a year to fund their travel aspirations.

Generational and Regional Insights

Breaking the data down by demographics reveals compelling insights. Baby Boomers (54%) are in charge of prioritizing travel, followed by Gen Z (52%), Millennials (48%), and Gen X (47%). Regionally, Western Australians top the list, with 54% prioritizing travel savings, closely followed by Queenslanders at 53%. Meanwhile, New South Wales residents (46%) and South Australians (47%) were the least likely to prioritize travel savings.

“Western Australians enjoy closer proximity to iconic travel destinations like Bali and Singapore, making international trips more accessible,” Callery added.

Tourism Flourishes Despite Rising Costs

The enthusiasm for travel persists despite escalating costs. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), holiday travel and accommodation prices surged 8% in the 12 months leading to October 2024. Yet, tourism continues to thrive, with tourism GDP climbing 9.1% in the 2023/24 financial year. Domestic tourism consumption rose by 1.7%, reaching a staggering $160.2 billion.

This growth reflects Australians’ passion for travel, even as economic pressures mount. Experts suggest this trend aligns with a global shift toward prioritizing leisure and experiential investments.

Balancing Leisure and Financial Pragmatism

While travel takes precedence, the survey underscores a balancing act between leisure aspirations and financial prudence. Building emergency funds and retirement savings remain key considerations for many, reflecting Australians’ desire to blend enjoyment with economic security.

As Callery put it, “Australians are embracing a lifestyle where making memories and enjoying life coexist with responsible financial planning.”

Looking Ahead to 2025

As the travel industry gears up for another dynamic year, these insights offer a promising forecast for domestic and international tourism operators. The Australian population’s robust commitment to travel underscores its cultural significance and reinforces its role as a key economic driver.

With Australians eagerly saving for their next adventure, the travel landscape in 2025 is poised to thrive—proving once again that the allure of exploration knows no bounds.

Written by: Karuna Johnson

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