Aussies are craving adventure close to home — but where do they turn to for travel inspo?

The Age

2 days ago

As the cost of living continues to pinch, Australians are shifting their travel dreams closer to home — and leaning towards trusted reviews when planning their next destination.
New NRMA Index research reveals that two-thirds of Australians (68 per cent) are planning domestic travel over the next 12 months. But what's guiding their decision-making isn't social media influencers or glossy travel brochures — it's word-of-mouth. In fact, 37 per cent of people say personal recommendations from friends and family are their most trusted source of travel advice. Whether it's a mate's camping trip to the NT or a cousin's rave review of a beachside cabin in Tassie, Aussies are looking for authentic voices and real experiences to guide their getaways.
From everyday to epic
The shift signals a deeper trend: Aussies want meaningful, memory-making trips — but without leaving the country or blowing the budget. And the destinations they're dreaming of reflect that: rugged coastlines, outback escapes, wildlife encounters and regional gems that let them slow down, reconnect and unplug.
To help feed this appetite for trusted travel insight, the NRMA has launched the My NRMA Rewards Review Crew — a grassroots movement designed to turn everyday travellers into Australia's next generation of reviewers. The idea? Real people sharing real experiences to inspire others to hit the road, too.
And helping to kick it off, actor Rebel Wilson has offered her own cheeky take on why everyone's a reviewer these days — even if it's just of a mini cookie. 'Being an actress, I've had good reviews and bad reviews,' Rebel laughs. 'Everyone has an opinion — especially in Australia!'
The rise of local travel
My NRMA Rewards has launched its Review Crew initiative to empower Australians to experience more of their own country, while also making it more affordable and accessible.