If you’ve ever come home from a holiday feeling more drained than refreshed, you’re far from alone. New national research suggests most Australians return from their trips needing another break.
A survey of 1,009 Australians commissioned by travel insurance provider Insure&Go found 75 per cent of respondents end their holidays more tired than when they left. One in five say they always need “a break after my break”, while only 24 per cent return genuinely refreshed.
The biggest culprit? Poor sleep, affecting 34 per cent of travellers who struggle with red-eye flights, late nights and uncomfortable bedding. Another 27 per cent say they simply cram too much into their itinerary, turning what should be a relaxing escape into a marathon. Planning stress also takes its toll, with 18 per cent citing pre-trip organisation as a major source of fatigue, while 7 per cent say they can’t properly switch off from work.
“We’re seeing travellers treat a seven-day break like a seven-day sprint,” said David Mayo, Commercial and Marketing Director at Insure&Go. “Fatigue can heighten the risk of illness, accidents and poor decision-making that can derail a trip.”
Younger Australians are feeling it the most. A striking 83% of 18- to 29-year-olds return exhausted, blaming logistics stress and jam-packed schedules. Gen X aren’t far behind, with 78% coming home tired. Even among Boomers, who pace themselves better, 69% still finish their trip feeling fatigued—though 31 per cent say they do feel refreshed, almost double the rate of younger travellers.
Insure&Go says a few simple habits can make a big difference: build in buffer days, prioritise sleep, cut down on overfilled itineraries, switch off work emails and ensure your insurance covers medical care overseas.
For many Aussies, it seems the challenge now is learning how to holiday properly.