Day-trippers spent a record $16.2 billion in NSW in the year to June 2026, as more people opt for shorter, more frequent getaways and spend more on each trip.
The latest Tourism Research Australia (TRA) figures show day-trip visits rose 7.3 per cent on the year before to 87.2 million, while spending on day trips jumped 34 per cent.
The North Coast was one of the top day-trip destinations in NSW over the year, along with the Hunter and South Coast.
Day trips are playing an important role in regional economies, particularly in places within two hours of Sydney and in key regional hubs.
“People are choosing shorter getaways, taking more day trips and spending more when they do, and NSW is reaping the benefits,” said Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper.
“Every day trip means more customers for a local café, pub, shop or attraction, putting more money into the pockets of businesses and communities across NSW.”
Domestic day trips were the main driver of growth in both visitors and spending, with the strongest results among people aged 35 to 54.
NSW was number one in the country for domestic visitors, nights, and spending. The state drew 126.4 million domestic visitors over the year, including 64 million to regional NSW.
NSW was also Australia’s most popular destination for international visitors.
In total, the state welcomed 130.6 million domestic and international visitors, up 5.1 per cent. They spent a record $62.9 billion, up 12.8 per cent, and stayed 225.7 million nights.
International visitor spending rose 14.5 per cent to $15.1 billion, driven by strong growth from China.
Visitor numbers from South Korea, the Philippines, Vietnam, and the United Kingdom are now above pre-pandemic levels.
The NSW Government’s Visitor Economy Strategy 2035 names day trips as a key driver of growth. The state is already on track to beat its target of more than 101 million day-trip visitors and $17 billion in day-trip spending by 2035.
The strategy’s overall target is $91 billion in visitor spending by 2035. NSW has already reached 69 per cent of that goal.
Growth over the year was helped by an extra 634,465 airline seats and 1,253 new accommodation rooms across the state.
“Domestic travel behaviour is being reshaped, and Destination NSW is responding to demand for high-value, immersive visitor experiences with event investment and business support that delivers those unforgettable moments people are seeking,” said Destination NSW CEO Karen Jones.
“NSW is delivering what today’s traveller is seeking – memorable, closer-to-home experiences that drive repeat visitation,” Minister Kamper said.
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