A new travel trend is emerging, one that’s raising eyebrows, especially among the over-60s. Some younger travellers are spending thousands of dollars before they even set foot on a plane, all in the name of looking and feeling their best on holiday.
But is this pre-holiday ritual a savvy investment in self-care, or just a modern-day money pit?
Let’s unpack the phenomenon, see what’s driving it, and ask: Is it really worth it?
The $3,800 Pre-Holiday Prep: What Are People Spending On?
Meet Vanessa Valderama, a 28-year-old Sydneysider who recently jetted off to Europe with her partner to celebrate their 15-year anniversary. Before even boarding her flight, Vanessa had already spent nearly $4,000 on what she calls ‘pre-holiday prep.’ Her expenses included:
- $300 on hair styling
- $95 on acrylic nails and a pedicure
- $550 on makeup refills
- $1,400 on beauty treatments (think anti-wrinkle injections, lip and chin fillers)
- $1,200 on new outfits
- $300 on travel gadgets like AirTags and a comfy travel pillow
And that’s before the $11,600 she and her partner shelled out for flights, accommodation, and train tickets!
Vanessa’s not alone. According to PassportCard Australia, nearly a third of Aussies spend between $300 and $500 on new clothes before a trip, and one in ten spend up to $2,000. Ten per cent also fork out hundreds on beauty and aesthetics. The pre-holiday ritual is becoming as much a part of the travel experience as booking a hotel or planning an itinerary.
Why Are Travellers Spending So Much Before They Go?
For Vanessa, it’s about more than just looking good for social media. ‘Since it’s my first time in Europe, I want my photos to look good. I’m doing it for myself. I want to feel good about myself,’ she says. She also points out that these memories—and the photos—will last a lifetime.
Social media certainly plays a role, with phrases like ‘nothing is more expensive than me before a trip’ trending online. But there’s also a generational shift in priorities. Vanessa explains, ‘Older generations might see spending this much as unnecessary and prefer to save that money for the future or other priorities. But for us, it feels more balanced. We work hard, and we want to enjoy the present, invest in ourselves, and feel good about who we are now.’
The Generational Divide: Sensible or Silly?
Here’s where things get interesting. Many older Aussies see this trend as a bit over the top. After all, most of us grew up with the mantra ‘save for a rainy day,’ and we know the value of a dollar. Spending thousands on beauty treatments and new clothes before a holiday might seem frivolous, especially when that money could go towards extra nights in a nice hotel, a special meal, or even a future trip.
But is there something to be said for investing in yourself and your confidence? After all, feeling good can make a holiday more enjoyable, and there’s no denying that a little pampering can lift the spirits.
Travel Prep Through the Ages: Then vs. Now
Let’s take a trip down memory lane. For many of us, pre-holiday prep meant a trip to the chemist for travel-sized toiletries, maybe a new sunhat, and a quick tidy-up at the hairdresser. We packed our trusty camera, a paperback or two, and off we went.
Today’s travellers, especially the younger crowd, are facing a different world—one where every moment is potentially shared online, and looking your best is part of the experience. There’s more pressure to ‘curate’ your holiday, from outfits to activities to the perfect photo spot.
Is It Worth It? The Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Boosts confidence and excitement before the trip
- Creates lasting memories (and great photos)
- Can be a form of self-care and celebration
Cons:
- Adds a high cost to an already expensive holiday
- May create unrealistic expectations or pressure to look perfect
- Money spent on beauty could be used for experiences or future savings
Smart Ways to Prep Without Breaking the Bank
If you like the idea of a little pre-holiday pampering but balk at the price tag, here are some tips:
- Shop your own wardrobe for ‘new’ outfits and mix and match to create fresh looks
- Opt for DIY beauty treatments at home
- Focus on one or two splurges that make you feel great, rather than a full makeover
And remember: confidence is the best accessory!
Key Takeaways
- Many Aussies are spending thousands on new clothes, beauty treatments, and wellness sessions as part of their pre-holiday rituals before heading overseas, with some shelling out nearly $4,000 before even leaving the country.
- While older generations see these pre-holiday expenses as unnecessary, younger travellers like Vanessa Valderama believe investing in looking and feeling good for holiday memories is just as important as saving for the future.
- Data from PassportCard Australia shows nearly a third of Aussies spend between $300 and $500 on clothing before a trip, and one in ten spend up to $2,000; ten per cent also fork out similar amounts on beauty treatments.
- Popular pre-trip purchases and routines include new outfits, hair and nail appointments, cosmetic injectables, skincare, fitness or weight-loss, and even planning social media content – all aimed at making the most of the holiday experience.
We’d love to hear from you! Do you splash out before a big trip, or do you prefer to save your money for experiences once you arrive? Have you noticed a change in how people prepare for holidays over the years? Share your thoughts, tips, and travel stories in the comments below—let’s get the conversation started!
And remember, whether you’re a fan of the full pre-holiday pamper or you’re happy with a fresh haircut and a smile, the best memories come from the adventures you have—not just the photos you take. Safe travels, everyone!
