Aussies are craving adventure close to home — but where do they turn to for travel inspo?

As the cost of living continues to pinch, Australians are shifting their travel dreams closer to home — and leaning towards trusted reviews when planning their next destination.

Experience the Kimberley with Coral Expeditions.

New NRMA Index research reveals that two-thirds of Australians (68 per cent) are planning domestic travel over the next 12 months. But what’s guiding their decision-making isn’t social media influencers or glossy travel brochures — it’s word-of-mouth. In fact, 37 per cent of people say personal recommendations from friends and family are their most trusted source of travel advice. Whether it’s a mate’s camping trip to the NT or a cousin’s rave review of a beachside cabin in Tassie, Aussies are looking for authentic voices and real experiences to guide their getaways.

From everyday to epic

The shift signals a deeper trend: Aussies want meaningful, memory-making trips — but without leaving the country or blowing the budget. And the destinations they’re dreaming of reflect that: rugged coastlines, outback escapes, wildlife encounters and regional gems that let them slow down, reconnect and unplug.

To help feed this appetite for trusted travel insight, the NRMA has launched the My NRMA Rewards Review Crew — a grassroots movement designed to turn everyday travellers into Australia’s next generation of reviewers. The idea? Real people sharing real experiences to inspire others to hit the road, too.

And helping to kick it off, actor Rebel Wilson has offered her own cheeky take on why everyone’s a reviewer these days — even if it’s just of a mini cookie. “Being an actress, I’ve had good reviews and bad reviews,” Rebel laughs. “Everyone has an opinion — especially in Australia!”

The rise of local travel

My NRMA Rewards has launched its Review Crew initiative to empower Australians to experience more of their own country, while also making it more affordable and accessible.

Through the My NRMA app, members can unlock savings on everyday essentials like fuel and groceries to making fun times possible with great travel and experience deals.

My NRMA Rewards members get access to exclusive deals at Freycinet Lodge.

“Millions of Australians are already enjoying the many benefits on offer in our My NRMA app,” says Victoria Doidge, chief membership officer at the NRMA. “Now with the My NRMA Rewards Review Crew, we’re ... establishing a team of reviewers to share their experience and inspire others to unlock the benefits of their My NRMA Rewards membership.”

Win one of 10 trips, create endless memories

From a luxury Kimberley cruise with Coral Expeditions to penguin encounters on Phillip Island, the Review Crew prize pool includes over $140,000 worth of getaways. Each trip has been curated with adventure, relaxation and unforgettable moments in mind — whether it’s soaking in the serenity of Tasmania’s Freycinet Peninsula or thrilling the kids at Gold Coast theme parks.

There’s something for every kind of traveller:

• Romantic escapes to Freycinet Lodge on Tasmania’s East coast
• Family friendly adventures at NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Park on the Gold Coast
• Wine-filled indulgence in South Australia
• And bucket-list expeditions with a 12-night Coral Expeditions cruise through the Kimberley.

Flights, spending money, accommodation, experiences — it’s all included. All you need to do is enter to join the Review Crew via the My NRMA app.

Where to next, Australia?

With so many hidden corners to uncover — from penguin parades in Phillip Island to wine tastings in the Barossa — it’s no wonder more of us are looking inward, not outward, when it comes to planning our next escape.

So, whether you’re plotting a long-weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Top End, the message is clear: ask your friends, trust real reviews — and don’t underestimate the adventure waiting in your own backyard.

To win one of 10 epic Aussie escapes, join the Review Crew on the My NRMA app.