Top 10 winter destinations as Aussies choose holidays close to home

Australians are holidaying close to home as more opt for getaways that don't break the bank.

Data from 1Cover Travel Insurance shows Bali and Japan were international hotspots over the April school holidays.

But domestic travel also had a boost, with a 10 per cent jump in policies compared to last year, and this is pitted to continue throughout winter.

The insurer's top-10 destinations for winter 2025 are:

Australian Bureau of Statistics data for March paints a similar picture, showing New Zealand, Indonesia and Japan were the top-three overseas destinations for short stays.

And international travel is growing. There were almost 10 per cent more overseas trips taken during March than the previous year.

1Cover chief operating officer Natalie Ball said this travel demand is expected to remain strong leading into the July school vacation.

"This steady increase in traveller numbers suggests that Australians are continuing to prioritise travel despite rising costs and an unpredictable exchange rate," she said.

The insurer sees growing interest in China, Thailand, Vietnam and Singapore as Aussies seek affordable travel destinations not far from home.

"There's also been a notable rise in travel to European countries such as Portugal, Austria and Croatia, as more Aussies venture further afield to seek the sun," she said.

"This trend reflects a shift away from heavily trafficked hotspots, with travellers seeking out less crowded, emerging destinations in response to concerns around overtourism in recent years."

Cruises are also set to be popular through winter, and Aussies are willing to travel further for the right one.

"While domestic cruising and cruises in the Pacific remain strong, we are seeing a surge in Europe, Asia and North American cruises, in addition to cruises with Canada, Alaska and even Antarctica itineraries," Ms Ball said.

Data from Wotif shows when Aussies holiday domestically, they're choosing destinations near the beach. Their top locations for the July holidays are: