If there’s one (and only one) thing Aussies love more than going on holiday, it’s scoring a bargain. If you can do both at the same time, you’re living the dream.
To help more of you make that dream come true, we’ve crunched the numbers to figure out the most budget-friendly times to visit your favourite Aussie and international destinations in 2018. Our recommendations are based on our predicted average accommodation rates for each month of the year*. See the bottom of this post for more info.
AUSSIE ESCAPES
Sydney and Melbourne
You’ll find the best deals for Sydney and Melbourne in winter, particularly in June.
The Gold Coast
The Gold Coast remains one of Australia’s favourite summer destinations. If you want to get more bang for your buck, travel in late summer (February) or late autumn (May), when you can save almost 25%** on your accommodation.
Cairns
While December is traditionally the wet season in Cairns, it’s also one of the best times to dive in the Great Barrier Reef, as the visibility is good and the water is balmy. The weather is hot and humid, which turns some travellers off, but if that doesn’t bother you, visiting in December can save you up to 20%** on your stay.
Perth
Australia’s sunniest capital (as confirmed by the Bureau of Meteorology – sorry, Brisbane) offers affordable accommodation all year round. But like Sydney and Melbourne, you’ll get the best value in June.
The Great Ocean Road
If you’re looking for peace and calm, a winter road trip along the Great Ocean Road can help you escape the crowds and save almost 35%** of your accommodation budget. It’s also the best time of year to spot humpback, blue, and southern right whales frolicking off the coast as they migrate north for mating season.
The Hunter Valley
NSW’s favourite wine region, the Hunter Valley offers great value during both winter (June) and summer (December), so you can enjoy the best of both worlds. Note to wine lovers: this makes it even easier to justify multiple visits.
Byron Bay
Byron Bay’s mild climate makes it a perfect holiday spot all year round. But winter is once again the winning ticket – you can save up to 20%** on your stay if you travel in June.
See the predicted monthly average rates for all your favourite Australian destinations:
INTERNATIONAL ADVENTURES
Queenstown
Autumn is a pleasant time to visit Queenstown, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, luxury, or a family break. As a bonus, travelling in May can save you 25% or more on your accommodation.**
Bali
August is one of the best times to visit Bali. Not only is it in the middle of the dry season, which means you’ll have more time to relax in the sun, the predicted average accommodation rate is a bargain at just $115* per night.
Phuket
While not for everyone, Phuket’s monsoon season is an opportunity for massive savings. Visit in May, June, or September to save up to a whopping 70%*** (yes, you read that right) on your stay.
Fiji
December is a fantastic time to visit Fiji. The weather is dry and warm, the beaches and resorts are less crowded, and you can save up to 30% on accommodation compared to travellers who visit in April**.
See the predicted monthly average rates for all your favourite international destinations:
*Recommendations based on the average daily rate for 3 – 5 star-rated and self-rated accommodation demand on Wotif.com between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2017 for travel from 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2017 for the described destinations. Prices shown are in Australian dollars, booked on the Wotif.com and are not necessarily the rates displayed on the site. Rates are subject to accommodation and date selections made.
**Predicted average savings are based on the comparison between predicted average high and low season daily rates.