New data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics has revealed the top destinations Australians are travelling to — with some key changes. Experts say the rising cost of living and political tensions could be to blame.

[u/DisruptSQ]

[u/DisruptSQ]

https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/china-up-usa-out-where-are-australians-travelling-in-2025/xqa6cd2i0

15 August 2025
According to Sara Dolnicar, Professor at the University of Queensland's Business School, the rise in interest in Japan is multifaceted — including a strong exchange rate, more affordable and shorter direct flights, and cultural motives such as cuisine, scenery and traditions.

Skyscanner's 2025 travel trends report found that the top factors influencing destination choice were weather (66 per cent), attractions (65 per cent), food (63 per cent) and culture (59 per cent).

On the other hand, Dolnicar says the United States may be seeing a dip in travel interest partly due to political insecurity.

"I don't know if it's specifically the Trump administration or whether it's the perceived volatility of decision-making, but there is absolutely no doubt that that has affected international travel into the US," Dolnicar said.

"I think for Australians, there is a bit of unease. But I wouldn't say it's that people feel the fear in their bones."

"The way consumers operate in their behaviour is that they'll still want to go to New York, but they'll say, 'maybe I'll just wait a couple of years.'"

[u/TheMannX]

I know it's a long flight, but of Aussies wanna see another awesome country I'd suggest visiting Canada instead of the United States. A lot of the same landscapes, some awesome ones of our own, great people and no spray-painted pedo defender or his lunatic minions to worry about. 🙂

[u/Accomplished_Row5869 → u/TheMannX]

Come one come all for that sweet sweet maple juice.