Nearly two-thirds of Australians feel guilty about spending money on travel as household budgets remain under pressure, with many changing the way they holiday to keep costs down.
New research commissioned by comparison service iSelect found that 62 per cent of Australians feel some level of guilt about holiday spending. Of those surveyed, 29 per cent said they feel strongly guilty about spending money on travel, while another 33 per cent said they feel slightly guilty.
The survey comes as travellers pay closer attention to the cost of flying, including baggage fees, which have become a growing part of the debate around airline pricing.
Rather than giving up travel altogether, many Australians are choosing cheaper alternatives. One in four respondents said travelling during the off-season would be their preferred way to save money in 2026, while 16 per cent said they would choose a domestic holiday instead of travelling overseas.
Others said they would stay in budget accommodation, drive instead of flying, or reduce spending on activities during their trip.
iSelect spokesperson Sophie Ryan said the findings suggest Australians continue to prioritise holidays despite financial pressure.
“The current discussion around carry-on baggage charges shows how price-sensitive travellers have become,” she said.
“Our research shows that while Australians still value travel, many are feeling guilty about the amount they’re spending and are actively looking for ways to reduce costs without cancelling their holiday plans.”
Ryan said many travellers are making practical adjustments, such as avoiding peak travel periods or choosing destinations closer to home.
She also warned that extra costs can quickly add up, particularly baggage charges and other travel-related fees.
“When every dollar counts, it’s important travellers understand the full cost of their trip before booking, including baggage fees, insurance costs and other extras that may apply,” she said.
The survey was conducted online by PureProfile during June 2026 and included 1,016 Australian respondents.
The findings point to a shift in travel behaviour, with affordability becoming a larger factor in planning holidays. While demand for travel remains strong, the survey suggests many Australians are increasingly weighing the cost of a trip against broader household expenses.
iSelect said travellers should compare insurance policies carefully and ensure they have appropriate cover for their destination, planned activities and any pre-existing medical conditions.
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