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The rising cost of living could force many Australians to abandon their summer holiday getaway, just as the nation is set to enjoy its first festive season in years free of travel restrictions.
More than half of Australians are rethinking their summer travel plans, with some delaying or ditching their holiday altogether, according to a survey commissioned by Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF), released on Thursday.
The national survey of 1500 people conducted by Pure Profile found 58 per cent of Australians say recent interest rate rises and cost-of-living pressures have affected their summer holiday plans.
A further 11 per cent are yet to decide "should I stay or should I go".
TTF CEO Margy Osmond says the tourism, transport and aviation sectors remain hopeful of a bumper summer holiday period.
"There's no denying recent interest rate rises, combined with higher grocery, electricity and petrol bills, are putting more pressure on household finances but there's still a strong appetite to travel," she said.
"This will be the first Australian summer without restrictions since the pandemic and I'm confident we'll see more international tourists return to Australia."
In a bid to economise more Australians are choosing to holiday at home, rather than head overseas and increasingly people are travelling within their own state.
"They're not only becoming more appreciative of the hidden gems in their own backyard but also saving money on airfares and other expenses," Ms Osmond said.
The survey found:
* For those impacted by cost-of-living pressures, 38 per cent have decided not to go on a summer holiday and 23 per cent will delay their trip.
* To economise 28 per cent will have a shorter holiday, 21.5 per cent will choose cheaper accommodation, 17 per cent will holiday within their own state, 12 per cent will stay with family or friends and seven per cent will choose self-catering accommodation.
* Of those still going away, 71 per cent will be away for one week or less, while 87 per cent will stay for two weeks or less.
* In the lead-up to Christmas and Boxing Day sales, 31 per cent plan to spend less than last year, while 48 per cent plan to spend about the same amount as last year.
