Australian Outbound Travel Soars With Strong Demand for Japan, China and Thailand
Latest travel data show a significant rise in Australians heading overseas, with Asian destinations dominating outbound trips in 2025
Australian travellers are embarking on international journeys in record numbers in 2025, with a marked shift toward key destinations in Asia including Japan, China and Thailand as holidaymakers seek diverse experiences, favourable exchange rates and cultural attractions.
New travel trends data show that Australians made nearly twelve million outbound trips in the year ending March 2025, up significantly from the previous year and reflecting robust demand for international travel, particularly to Asian markets.
Japan led growth among long-haul destinations with a nearly forty per cent year-on-year increase in arrivals, while China also recorded a substantial uptick in visits from Australians, underlining the rising popularity of North Asia as a preferred region for holidays and leisure travel.
South-East Asian destinations such as Thailand saw notable increases in Australian visitors, driven by affordable travel options, direct flight connectivity and rich cultural offerings.
Data from travel platforms and industry reports indicate that searches and bookings for Bangkok and other Thai destinations have climbed alongside interest in neighbouring countries, highlighting Thailand’s continued role as a key destination in Australia’s outbound travel landscape.
Analysts point to a combination of enhanced airline capacity, competitive pricing and the appeal of diverse travel experiences — from urban exploration to beach and cultural tourism — as factors underpinning the shift toward Asia Pacific destinations.
Industry observers say that holidays remain the dominant reason for Australians travelling abroad, with leisure trips accounting for the majority of outbound travel.
Improved accessibility through expanded air services and competitive airfare pricing has further encouraged Australians to explore international markets beyond traditional favourites, while economic factors such as exchange rates have made destinations like Japan particularly attractive.
Travel agents and tourism bodies note that this surge reflects broader global travel recovery trends and indicates strong consumer confidence among Australian travellers.
With Asia’s cultural richness and proximity offering both convenience and value, destinations such as Japan, China and Thailand are poised to remain at the forefront of Australian holiday planning in the near term.
New travel trends data show that Australians made nearly twelve million outbound trips in the year ending March 2025, up significantly from the previous year and reflecting robust demand for international travel, particularly to Asian markets.
Japan led growth among long-haul destinations with a nearly forty per cent year-on-year increase in arrivals, while China also recorded a substantial uptick in visits from Australians, underlining the rising popularity of North Asia as a preferred region for holidays and leisure travel.
South-East Asian destinations such as Thailand saw notable increases in Australian visitors, driven by affordable travel options, direct flight connectivity and rich cultural offerings.
Data from travel platforms and industry reports indicate that searches and bookings for Bangkok and other Thai destinations have climbed alongside interest in neighbouring countries, highlighting Thailand’s continued role as a key destination in Australia’s outbound travel landscape.
Analysts point to a combination of enhanced airline capacity, competitive pricing and the appeal of diverse travel experiences — from urban exploration to beach and cultural tourism — as factors underpinning the shift toward Asia Pacific destinations.
Industry observers say that holidays remain the dominant reason for Australians travelling abroad, with leisure trips accounting for the majority of outbound travel.
Improved accessibility through expanded air services and competitive airfare pricing has further encouraged Australians to explore international markets beyond traditional favourites, while economic factors such as exchange rates have made destinations like Japan particularly attractive.
Travel agents and tourism bodies note that this surge reflects broader global travel recovery trends and indicates strong consumer confidence among Australian travellers.
With Asia’s cultural richness and proximity offering both convenience and value, destinations such as Japan, China and Thailand are poised to remain at the forefront of Australian holiday planning in the near term.
