1-in-4 holidaying Aussies have less to spend this Christmas but still keen for a break

Nationwide research conducted by the NRMA has found that over one-quarter (27%) of holidaying Australians have less money to spend on travel compared to last year yet it’s not stopping most from booking a much-needed family holiday.

NRMA Jindabyne Holiday Park

The quarterly NRMA Index survey of 2,000 people found almost half of all Australians (49%) are planning on taking a family holiday this Christmas with a further 20 per cent still deciding whether to take a break. Only one-in-10 (11%) have said they can’t afford a holiday this year.

Two-thirds (66%) of those planning on travelling have said they will holiday domestically in what is positive news for regional tourism and the economy. Less than one-third (31%) will travel overseas.

In a further demonstration that cost-of-living continues to hurt Australian families, 60 per cent of those planning on taking a holiday this year have cut back on spending throughout the year to fund their holiday – the figure increases to 68 per cent among households with children under 18.

Cut backs included dining out (73%), clothing (53%) and “indulgences” such as more expensive self-care products, ice cream and chocolates (52%).

Almost one-quarter (23%) reported cutting back on essentials such as fuel and groceries.

NRMA owns and manages nearly 60 hotels, holiday parks and resorts across Australia. The organisation currently has some remaining capacity across its destinations however availability at its popular coastal parks and resorts are almost completely booked out.

With less than four months to the Christmas and summer holidays NRMA is encouraging Australians to finalise their holiday plans and book early, to ensure they get the best deal and don’t miss out on their preferred destinations.

NRMA Parks & Resorts CEO Paul Davies said the industry welcomed the news that the overwhelming majority of Australians intended to holiday in their own backyards this Christmas.

“Australia has some of the world’s most sought-after and cherished holiday destinations and so it is pleasing to see the majority of Australians have chosen a domestic holiday over travelling overseas – its affordable and provides a crucial boost to local tourism,” Mr Davies said.

The NRMA research found among those planning to travel general sight-seeing (69%), the beach (58%) and visiting pubs and clubs (38%) were among the main attractions this Christmas.

“Beach holidays are always popular over summer, however the NRMA is also seeing a growing interest in regional and rural destinations, including Tasmania, Halls Gap, Jindabyne and Airlie Beach. We are encouraging the community to book their holidays now so they don’t miss out.”

Visit Hotels | Travel Packages | Insurance | Accommodation | The NRMA

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