Vietnam Nears United Kingdom in Australian Travel

Australians took nearly 600,000 trips to Vietnam in the year ending August 2026.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Australia and New Zealand

Screen-print poster illustration of two straw conical hats and a bamboo suitcase, representing the surge in Australian travel to Vietnam. — Australians took nearly 600,000 trips to Vietnam in the year ending August 2026, nearly matching travel volume to the United Kingdom. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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In the year to August 2026, Australians made 588,490 trips to Vietnam, nearly matching the 588,550 trips taken to the United Kingdom. This surge reflects a 17.4% year-on-year increase in travel to the destination.

Why it matters

Vietnam has become a favoured destination for Australians due to its accessibility, local food, culture, and significantly shorter flight durations compared to travel to Europe.

Australians completed 12.77 million total overseas trips in the year to August, marking a 3.2% increase. August alone saw 45,630 trips to Vietnam, a 30.3% year-on-year rise.

The players

Australian Bureau of Statistics

This is the national statistical agency of Australia responsible for producing official data on population, economy, and society.

ATIA

The Australian Travel Industry Association serves as a peak body representing the interests of travel agents and businesses across the country.

The details

The data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics indicates that travellers are increasingly utilising direct flights to reach Vietnam. Industry reports suggest that Vietnam is poised to overtake the United Kingdom as a preferred overseas destination for Australian citizens.

The year to August 2026 saw 12.77 million total overseas trips.
August 2026 saw Australian trips to Vietnam increase by 30.3%.
The Travel Trends Report was released by the ATIA in October 2026.

Travel Outlook

The shift toward Vietnam reflects a broader regional trend in Australian tourism as travellers increasingly favour Asian destinations over traditional long-haul markets. This aligns with findings in the Australian Bureau of Statistics overseas arrivals and departures data documenting rising short-haul travel.

Travellers can expect greater ease of access due to the availability of direct flights between Australia and Vietnam. Those planning trips should monitor current growth trends as increased demand may impact future flight availability and pricing.

The takeaway

The proximity and cultural offerings of Vietnam make it an increasingly competitive alternative to long-haul European holidays. Travellers should weigh the convenience of shorter flight times against seasonal pricing variations to optimise their international itineraries.