TRAVELLERS are struggling to choose between cutting costs and paying extra for more sustainable travel choices, new research reveals.
According to Booking.com’s 2023 Sustainable Travel Report, 64% of Australian respondents said they want to travel more sustainably over the coming year, but more than half (58%) believe these options are too expensive (up 14% from Booking.com ’s 2022 data ).
Only 36% were willing to pay more for travel options with a sustainable certification.
The desire for travel companies to take action is growing compared to last year’s survey, with 72% wanting more sustainable travel choices (up from 61% in 2022).
Just under half (49%) believe there are not enough sustainable travel options.
One in two Aussie travellers (49%, up 15% from 2022) also said they want discounts and economic incentives in order to choose eco-friendly options.
Despite these good intentions, 43% of travellers don’t know where to find more sustainable options.
Additionally, 75% seek authentic experiences that support cultural sustainability, yet 35% don’t know how or where to find options that give back to the local community.
“Booking.com ’s 2023 Sustainable Travel research confirms an intersection between current cost of living concerns and the impact of climate change witnessed in our region, which has led to a greater demand for both more budget and planet-friendly travel options,” said Laura Houldsworth, Managing Director Asia Pacific.
“We are listening and together with our partners across the industry, we are examining every part of the trip to not only support our travellers but also benefit our
Australian communities and environments.”
Booking.com lists more than 500,000 accommodations across the world, including more than 9,000 in Australia, recognised for their sustainability efforts via the site’s Travel Sustainable badge, providing travellers with the opportunity to choose sustainable stays while travelling for no extra cost.
Users can also filter their rental car search results to find electric and hybrid cars.
