Why have holidays become to-do lists? Meet the anti-tick list escape

Ditch the jam-packed itinerary – this escape is all about slowing down, switching off and truly unwinding.

For years, the ultimate holiday experience has been defined by how many sights, attractions and landmarks can be crammed into an itinerary. The more boxes ticked, the more successful the trip. But a growing number of Australian travellers are flipping that mindset on its head, rejecting the ‘tick list’ approach in favour of slowing down, unwinding and immersing themselves in nature. Enter the ‘anti-tick list holiday’ – a travel trend that’s all about embracing the joy of doing less.

Why the anti-tick list holiday is gaining traction

The open road in Kimberly, Western Australia. Straight single lane asphalt road stretching into the distance with mountains in the background. Holiday adventure. — The anti-tick list holiday encourages travellers to focus on being present. (Image: Getty Images/Jason Bennee)

A combination of factors is driving the shift in how Aussies are choosing to holiday. The rising cost of travel, increasing overtourism in major hotspots and a collective yearning for a break from the chaos of everyday life have all contributed to the growing appeal of slow travel.

Reflections Holidays chief executive officer Nick Baker told Australian Traveller that many Aussies are realising that the cookie-cutter holiday experience just isn’t for them. “We’ve noticed a growing shift towards Aussies seeking out authentic, personalised getaways that avoid common tourist traps," Baker said.

“Instead of wasting time in queues and crowded attractions, travellers now want to focus on activities they truly enjoy, opting instead for an anti-tick list itinerary."

Rather than rushing from one attraction to the next, the anti-tick list holiday encourages travellers to take a step back, focus on being present and enjoy the simple pleasures of their surroundings. Whether it’s waking up to the sound of birdsong in a secluded stay in Tasmania, spending an entire day reading on a secret beach, going on an epic road trip to the heart of the outback or hiking to a lookout without checking the time, this kind of travel is about experiences, not itineraries.

Less is more

Aerial view of car parked with camper and young man overlooking the Great Australian Bight. Captured while crossing the Nullarbor. — Escape the daily grind with an anti-tick list holiday. (Image: Getty Images/Philip Thurston)

Stepping away from the pressure to ‘see it all’ can lead to a more meaningful and rejuvenating holiday. Instead of returning home feeling like they need another break to recover, travellers who embrace a slower pace report feeling more refreshed and connected to both their surroundings and themselves.

Nature-based getaways, in particular, are proving to be a popular choice for those looking to escape the daily grind. Immersing in natural environments – whether it’s a rainforest retreat in Tropical North Queensland, a remote campground or a small town coastal escape in South Australia – has been linked to improved mental health , lower stress levels and a greater sense of well-being. It’s not just about switching off from work emails; it’s about reconnecting with the world in a way that doesn’t require a checklist. Because we have enough of those already.

“Sometimes, less really is more. When you strip back the clutter of a packed schedule, you create space for genuine relaxation and a chance to reconnect with nature," Baker told Australian Traveller.

Where to go for the ultimate anti-tick list holiday

For those keen to embrace the anti-tick list ethos, there’s no shortage of destinations across Australia that offer a slower, more immersive escape. Here are a few ideas:

Holiday parks in beautiful locations

Reflections Holidays Moonee Beach — Slow down at Reflections Holidays properties.

Nestled in some of Australia’s most picturesque locations, Reflections Holidays campgrounds and cabins provide a perfect setting for a low-key, nature-based escape. With waterfront views, bushland retreats and easy access to stunning landscapes, they make it easy to slow down and savour the beauty of Australia.

“We are seeing a lot of interest in spots that are more off-the-beaten-track with locations such as Bonny Hills, Evans Head, Pambula, Tumut and Eden, gaining popularity, offering the perfect balance of comfort, adventure and seclusion," Baker said.

And for a taste of remote wilderness, Discovery Parks has some standout locations, including Broome, Lake Argyle and Lake Kununurra in the Kimberley.

Margaret River, WA

Margaret River vineyard — Enjoy an unhurried escape in Margaret River. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

A world-renowned wine region that offers more than just cellar doors. Here, you can take long walks along untouched beaches, explore ancient caves and enjoy farm-to-table dining at a relaxed pace. The lush vineyards and rugged coastlines create the perfect backdrop for a truly unhurried escape.

The Blue Mountains, NSW

The Grand Cliff Top Walk Undercliff Track in the Blue Mountains — Ditch the crowded lookouts on the new Grand Cliff Top Walk. (Image: R Brand/DCCEEW)

Known for its dramatic cliffs, waterfalls and lush eucalyptus forests, the Blue Mountains is an ideal destination to unwind. Ditch the crowded lookouts and instead explore lesser-known hiking trails, stay in a cosy cabin or simply soak up the crisp mountain air.

The Yarra Valley, Vic

Yarra Valley Road — The Yarra Valley is perfect for a slow and mindful getaway.

This wine country escape offers rolling vineyards, exquisite dining and boutique accommodation set in tranquil countryside. Whether it’s a leisurely afternoon tasting local wines, indulging in gourmet produce or enjoying a picnic by the river, the Yarra Valley is perfect for a slow and mindful getaway.

Cocos Keeling Islands

A remote paradise in the Indian Ocean, the Cocos Keeling Islands are an archipelago that boasts crystal-clear waters, pristine white-sand beaches and an unhurried island vibe. With limited tourist infrastructure, it’s the ultimate spot to disconnect from the world, snorkel among vibrant marine life and enjoy uninterrupted sunsets over the horizon.

The future of anti-tick list travel?

The rise of the anti-tick list holiday suggests that more Aussies are rethinking what a successful getaway looks like. While there will always be a place for bucket-list travel, there’s a growing recognition that a holiday should be about more than just ticking boxes – it should be about taking a breath, enjoying the moment, and making memories that aren’t defined by a checklist.

As this trend continues to gain momentum, expect to see more travellers opting for slow, nature-focused escapes that prioritise relaxation over rushing. After all, sometimes the best way to make the most of a holiday is to simply let go of the agenda altogether.

From cycling and comedy to boating and begonia appreciation, there’s an event in regional Victoria that’s sure to have you circling dates on your calendar.

1. Festival of Sails

the Melbourne to Geelong passage race, Festival of Sails 2025 — The Melbourne to Geelong passage race will be held for its 183rd year. (Image: Salty Dingo)

When: 24–26 January
Where: Melbourne and Geelong

This five-day regatta of sailing and onshore entertainment at Geelong’s waterfront includes Australia’s oldest sporting event, the Melbourne to Geelong passage race which, in 2026, will be held for its 183rd year. But you don’t have to be a yachtie, sailor or boat-enthusiast to enjoy the nautical excitement; there’s also a three-day line-up of entertainment, food and live music, including the anchoring of tall ships – ever a firm family favourite.

2. Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race

cyclists during the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race — Catch the best cyclists as they wind through Victoria’s coastal towns. (Image: Visit Victoria)

When: 31 January – 1 February
Where: The Bellarine Peninsula

Meandering (at pace) along the Bellarine Peninsula and the Surf Coast is this annual cycling event that welcomes everyone from families to serious athletes. Since its beginnings in 2015, the race has become a huge hit with spectators flocking along to cheer on Lycra-clad competitors. Starting and finishing in Geelong’s Velo Village, this is the hub of the non-race activity with food and drink, roaming performers, lawn games and face painting.

3. Riverboats Music Festival

the performers at Riverboats Music Festival, Murray River — The annual music festival is staged under majestic red gums by the Murray River.

When: 13–15 February
Where: Echuca–Moama

Get along to bop and sway under the canopy of red gums at this annual music festival . Hosted by the twin towns of Echuca–Moama, the stage is set for Murray River-adjacent revelling as historic paddlesteamers peacefully chug alongside the event. As well as music, there’s dancing, food trucks and plenty of atmosphere to absorb.

4. Neerim ArtsFest

the Neerim ArtsFest south sculptures — Admire stunning works at Neerim ArtsFest. (Image: Nicky Cawood)

When: 28 February – 15 March
Where: Gippsland

This biennial Gippsland festival celebrates sculptural artists with an esteemed award in two categories, large outdoor and small indoor. The public is invited to enjoy the works over the exhibition period as they’re placed throughout Neerim South and surrounding venues. For 2026, the theme ‘The Spirit Soars’ leads artists to create stunning pieces that explore the expression of freedom in a thrilling visual capacity.

5. ChillOut Festival

a street parade during the LGBTQIA+ ChillOut Festival — Think colourful street parades and burlesque performances.

When: 5–9 March
Where: Daylesford

Pride in the country has been cheered on every March in Daylesford since 1997 with the riotous annual LGBTQIA+ ChillOut Festival . This colourful regional spectacle is an inclusive celebration of diversity that plays out across a vibrant parade, burlesque performances, a bush dance and a carnival. Get bedazzled, find a wig and stick on the false eyelashes for this fun party.

6. Port Fairy Folk Festival

Missy Higgins at the Port Fairy Folk Festival — Celebrate folk music at the Port Fairy Folk Festival. (Image: Lucinda Goodwin)

When: 6–9 March
Where: Port Fairy

In 2026, this beloved festival will be one year shy of its 50th anniversary. From folk fans to festival-lovers, this long-running event brings plenty of good vibes to guarantee an incredible experience. While music is at the heart of the festival, there’s also a range of workshops, exhibitions and family entertainment across dance, film and folk art. For its 49th year, the line-up so far includes Blair Dunlop, Elephant Sessions, and the musical duo Felicity Urquhart and Josh Cunningham.

7. The Ballarat Begonia Festival

a woman admiring flowers at The Ballarat Begonia Festival — Gasp at delicate blooms at The Ballarat Begonia Festival.

When: 7–9 March
Where: Ballarat

In bloom since 1953, this horticultural event places a collection of rare begonias at the centre of festivities, honouring the flower’s presence in Ballarat since the 1800s. During its history, the event has been visited by Queen Elizabeth II and, in 2015, it featured the launch of the largest outdoor Lego flower. Apart from a display of around 500 species of the flower of the moment, there’s also a begonia parade, entertainment, live music, food and presentations.

8. The Bendigo Easter Festival

Chinese dragon Dai Gum Loong dance at The Bendigo Easter Festival — The majestic Chinese dragon Dai Gum Loong dance is an annual tradition at The Bendigo Easter Festival.

When: 3–6 April
Where: Bendigo

Held in the city’s Rosalind Park, the annual Easter Festival has been a highlight of Bendigo’s calendar of events since 1871. A carnival of colourful activity, the festival welcomes everyone and rolls out the good times with everything from a Good Friday Easter egg hunt to live music and performances, a Rotary market and Gala Parade. Don’t miss the world’s longest imperial dragon rhythmically roaming the historic streets as part of the Easter Sunday festivities.

9. Grape Escape

a glass of wine at the Grampians Grape Escape — Enjoy a wine tasting experience. (Image: Anthony Evans Photography)

When: 1–3 May
Where: The Grampians

Backdropped by gorgeous Grampians/Gariwerd National Park, this much-loved bacchanalian-inspired festival of food, wine and music is a high-priority for gourmands. Held at Halls Gap Reserve, a Tasting Ticket includes a tumbler that unlocks free wine, beer and cider tastings and, if you are partaking, there’s a shuttle bus to get you back to your digs afterwards. Be sure to book your accommodation early for this one – its popularity is undisputed.

10. Comedy in the Vines

Comedy in the Vines at Cherryhill Orchards — Get the good times rolling at Cherryhill Orchards. (Image: Saige Prime)

When: 24–26 October
Where: Yarra Valley

The premise of Yarra Valley’s Comedy in the Vines , held at Cherryhill Orchards, is that wine and laughs pair well. Few arguments can be made, so get along this month (or next year), to have a giggle and a gamay. This year, taking the stage is the likes of Merrick Watts, Tommy Little, Ray O’Leary and Takashi Wakasugi. There are also masterclasses, a riesling and oyster shot bar, and plenty of food and music between gigs.