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The $3,145 expense Aussies are refusing to give up

Taking a trip away might be bad for the hip pocket but it can do wonders for your mental health.

Crowds at Sydney airport and Australian currency to represent spending on travel.
The cost of living crisis isn't stopping Aussies from following through on their travel plans. (Source: Getty)

Despite the cost-of-living crisis, travel remains a top priority for those seeking to improve their mental health and well-being.

New research from Zip revealed four out of five (82 per cent) Australians were set to prioritise personal travel in 2023, despite rising interest rates and inflation.

Of those planning to travel, two out of three (67 per cent) were planning to change the way they did so, leaning into smarter ways to tick their travel box while still enjoying the benefits of holidays.

The research revealed the average Australian was expected to spend $3,145 on holidays in 2023. When it comes to booking that trip, Australians are still motivated to travel, with 41 per cent saying they plan to book a domestic trip - as opposed to heading overseas - to help curb spending, as the cost of living continues to rise.

“What we know at Zip is that, for many, travel is synonymous with improving mental wellness, as it offers opportunities for rest, relaxation and a break from routine, which can support greater productivity in our everyday lives,” Zip senior director, commercial, Karen Farrar said.

The Positivity Institute founder Dr Suzy Green said Aussies needed to understand their options when it came to travel in 2023, including spending within their means and travelling smarter.

“While the economic challenges faced by many Australians are real, it is clear that travel remains a priority for those seeking to improve their state of mind and well-being,” Green said.

“Travel is without a doubt an essential tool for promoting mental wellness, helping all Australians cope with the stress and anxiety of daily life. In 2023, what we need to do is get smart with how we travel - plan for it, look at all your options, commit to smaller escapes more regularly but ensure it’s factored into your budgets.”

Top 10 suburbs spending big on travel this year

  1. Bull Creek (WA - 6149) were forecast to spend $11,592 per household

  2. Leinster (WA - 6437) were forecast to spend $11,261 per household

  3. Menangle Park (NSW - 2563) were forecast to spend $10,955 per household

  4. Boundary Bend (VIC - 3599) were forecast to spend $10,308 per household

  5. Coolup (WA - 6214) were forecast to spend $9,708 per household

  6. Yarralumia (ACT - 2600) were forecast to spend $9,055 per household

  7. Laverton (WA - 6440) were forecast to spend $8,901 per household

  8. Seaforth (NSW - 2092) were forecast to spend $8,879 per household

  9. Kingston on Murray (SA - 5331) were forecast to spend $8,857 per household

  10. Carnamah (WA - 6517) were forecast to spend $8,550 per household

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