New research has revealed that almost half of Australians would still choose travel over buying property in 2026, despite cooling property prices across capital cities, and travel prices rising due to volatile fuel costs.
The findings were revealed in a survey of an independent, nationally representative panel of 1006 Australians commissioned by award-winning travel insurance provider Insure&Go.
When asked whether they would choose between property and travel, 46 per cent of respondents who do not own property said they would opt for travel. The appetite for travel is strongest in younger age groups: 51 per cent of 18-to-34-year-olds saying they would choose travel over property this year, compared with 44 per cent of 35-54-year-olds and 40 per cent of over-55s.
Insure&Go analysed responses across states and territories, finding that a desire for travel is strongest in Australia’s two most expensive property markets – NSW and Queensland – where 48 and 50 per cent of respondents in those states, respectively, would opt for travel.
Insure&Go spokesperson Madhvi Mishra says she expects Australians to continue placing a high value on travel experiences, despite market and economic conditions.
“Travel remains a priority for many Aussies,” she says. “For many, it’s more than discretionary spending; it’s an investment in personal growth, wellbeing and creating meaningful experiences, which is why people continue to plan and save for trips despite cost-of-living pressures.”
However, the research revealed that more Aussies this year are recognising opportunities in the property market and considering their options. When Insure&Go asked an independent panel of Australians the same question in 2024, 60 per cent said they would choose travel over property –14 per cent more than in this year’s survey.
Across age groups, two years ago it was overwhelmingly 35-54-year-olds that wanted to travel most, at 65 per cent. This year, that figure has now fallen to 44 per cent in this age bracket. Among under-35s adults, the preference for travel has also softened this year, declining 20 per cent, from 71 per cent in 2024.
Madhvi says: “That a higher percentage of Aussies would choose property over travel this year, compared with 2024, points to people’s perception of value and risk. Geopolitical volatility tends to dampen travel demand. I think the rising cost of travel is also playing a big role, in part due to higher fuel prices. Meanwhile, this year’s property market has been shifting towards buyers, motivating some Australians to consider entering the market.”
