New research: Extreme heat is altering when, where and how we travel

New research reveals that extreme heat is significantly altering Australians' travel patterns, both domestically and abroad. In a groundbreaking study, a national online survey of 2,292 Australians found that one-fifth (20%) had changed their most recent vacation due to weather, with 6% adjusting plans specifically because of heat. Despite rain dampening tourist enthusiasm more than heat in existing evidence, this study is the first to empirically demonstrate that Australians are changing their travel patterns due to heat.

Additionally, 31% of surveyed Australians altered their vacation plans by shortening, extending, or changing the dates of their trips in response to unexpected weather. Natural disasters like bushfires or storms, as well as forecast rain and heat, were common reasons people changed their travel plans. Furthermore, about one-fifth of those who altered their plans abandoned their original destination to travel somewhere else instead.

Destination changes were most common among nature-based tourists, such as campers, hikers, cyclists, and water sports enthusiasts, and least common for city tourists.

The study also found that 80% of Australians stuck to their original vacations, regardless of the weather. However, this is concerning from a health perspective, particularly given the rising number of heat-related deaths among hikers. To protect outdoor travelers, authorities should strengthen heat-related warning systems, provide more shaded spaces at tourist sites, and supply essential water sources.

Clear information about staying safe in hot conditions, such as avoiding hiking during peak heat hours and drinking enough water, should be provided, along with heat safety training for staff at major outdoor attractions.

Older Australians, who are more vulnerable to heat, were also more likely to travel despite unpredictable weather. Many Australian tourists lack the knowledge and resources to cope with weather changes, with nearly half of the survey participants being poorly prepared for heat and nearly 5% not prepared at all. Education about extreme heat is crucial to bridge this gap and keep Australian tourists safe, both at home and abroad.