Wotif reveals a shift toward calm, community-focused getaways in regional Australia, in annual Unpack ’26 travel trends report. 

Oct. 16, 2025, SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – Australians are trading hustle for harmony in 2026, with half (50%) planning to swap the stress of over-planned holidays for peaceful escapes in smaller towns.* According to Wotif’s latest insights from the annual Unpack ’26 travel trend report, travellers are increasingly drawn to destinations that offer a gentler pace and fewer crowds (80%) and proximity to everything they need (78%). 

“Travellers are telling us they want to feel restored, not rushed,” said Darren Karshagen, Senior Director at Expedia Group. “The rise of ‘Slow Down Towns’ reflects a growing desire to connect with local communities and embrace the simplicity of slower travel. It’s not just about where you go — it’s about how you feel when you get there.” 

The trend is rooted in a broader movement toward more mindful travel, with 72% of Aussies expressing a desire to support local communities while they unwind. When visiting smaller, slower-paced towns, travellers report feeling more relaxed (67%), less stressed (54%), and truly recharged (52%) after their holiday. 

Wotif’s Top Destinations for 2026 ‘Slow Down Towns’ include:* 

• Nagambie, VIC – Lakeside serenity and boutique wineries 

• Trinity Beach, QLD – Tropical calm near Cairns 

• Huskisson, NSW – Coastal charm in Jervis Bay 

• Robe, SA – Heritage-rich seaside escape 

• Mollymook, NSW – Laid-back luxury on the South Coast 

These destinations offer the perfect blend of tranquility, accessibility, and community connection — ideal for travellers seeking meaningful, restorative experiences. 

*Third-Party Methodology 
Third-party research was conducted by market research partner OnePoll in accordance with the Market Research Society’s Code of Conduct. The Study was conducted online among 24,000 adult respondents across 18 countries, who are planning domestic or international travel in the next three years. Gen Z respondents are defined as those aged 18 to 24, while the combined Gen Z and Millennial group includes all respondents aged 18 to 44. 

*Wotif’s Slow Down Towns: 

Based on year-on-year growth in traveller interest for destinations with populations under 5,000, with accommodation quality and quantity also considered. 

About Unpack ’26 

Q: What is Unpack ’26? 
A: Unpack ’26 is the annual global travel insights report from Expedia Group, building on years of trend forecasting and traveller behavior analysis. It draws on first-party data from Expedia, Wotif and Stayz, along with insights from 24,000 travellers across 18 countries, making it one of the most comprehensive travel trend reports in the industry. 

Q: What makes Unpack ’26 a credible source for travel trends? 
A: The report combines real-time platform data from millions of users with third-party research conducted by OnePoll, following the Market Research Society’s Code of Conduct. Its findings are backed by behavioral insights, booking patterns, and cultural signals, making it a trusted resource for media, industry leaders, and travellers alike. 

Q: Where can I access the full Unpack ’26 report and assets? 
A: Visit www.expedia.com.au/newsroom for the full Unpack ’26 report, downloadable assets, and brand-specific insights from Expedia, Wotif and Stayz.