Aussies are travelling in record numbers, with 1.66 million heading overseas in October 2024 – a 12.1% jump from last year, according to the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA).

ATIA’s December Travel Trends report highlights Japan as the star performer, with a staggering 73.8% year-on-year rise, attracting 567,330 Australian travellers for the year until the end of October.

Vietnam (up 35.4%) and Indonesia (up 26%) also saw major increases, with the latter topping the list of overall destinations at 1.64 million visitors. 

New Zealand and the USA followed closely, with 8.2% and 13% growth, respectively.

Holidays remain the primary reason for travel (63.6%), while visiting friends and family (24%) and business trips (5%) round out the stats.

Inbound travel is booming too, with Chinese visitation nearly doubling (up 96.6%), while South Korea and Japan also posted impressive growth of nearly 50%.

“Destinations like Japan, Vietnam and Indonesia are seeing unprecedented growth,” ATIA Director of Membership and Industry Affairs Richard Taylor said.

“Japan’s 73.8% year-on-year surge is phenomenal while Vietnam and Indonesia continue to rise. These figures highlight the evolving preferences of Australian travellers.”

Leisure leads

Taylor said skyrocketing leisure travel is driving the surge, with two in three (63.6%) Australians travelling for holidays.

“The strong focus on reconnecting with friends and family, as reflected in 24% of travellers, also highlights the personal value of travel,“ he stated.

“We know from our members that Australians’ appetite for travel, especially to emerging markets, is always strong.

“When deciding on your travel plans, whether it’s for holidaying or for business, choose an ATIA-Accredited business to make sure your travel plans deliver.”