International travel on the rise in Australia and abroad (plus, Where can Australians travel?)

By Jack Dona · · 2 min read
Fact Checked
Advertiser disclosure
people walk across a flat representation of the globe

The number of Australian border crossings is going up, which can only mean one thing: international travel is on the rise. 

There were 1.2 million international border crossings to and from Australia in April 2022, According to provisional data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), which is a significant increase from the previous month’s total of 710,000 crossings.

These latest numbers are knee-high compared to pre-pandemic times, representing a mere third (34%) of the 3.5 million travellers processed in April 2019. But, it’s a drastic change from last year when there were 118,000 international border crossings.

ABS director of migration statistics, Jenny Dobak said of the increase: “With international borders reopening in February and the Easter long weekend and school holidays in April, we have seen an increase in arrivals and departures.

“There were 580,000 overseas arrivals and 610,000 overseas departures in April 2022, the largest number of travellers since the start of the pandemic.”

Where can Australians travel?

Now that many countries have opened their borders to international travellers, us Aussies finally have some options on the table. 

However, it can be difficult to work out where we can actually go, as some countries still have strict border requirements for certain destinations, and others have their gates still firmly closed. 

One way to work out up-to-date info on your destinations of choice is to head over the Australian Government’s Smartraveller website. You’ll then want to use the menu to navigate to the destinations page, where you can pursue the list of countries, or search for a specific place. 

Once you’ve clicked on your destination’s page, there’ll be the latest info regarding COVID-19 entry requirements, advice levels (important for your travel insurance), and things like visas and health risks. 

So, if you’re one of the rising number of travellers intent on international exploration in the coming months, then make sure you sort out your international travel insurance policy ASAP, so you can make the most of your trip.

Compare travel insurance for your next international trip - last updated 16 April 2024

Search promoted travel insurance below. Advertiser disclosure Important information on terms, conditions and sub-limits.
  • Mozo Expert Choice Badge
    International Travel Insurance
    covid medical cover
    Yes
    covid cancellation cover
    Yes
    overseas hospital
    Unlimited
    cancellation cover
    $5,000 limit per policy with option to increase limit

    Get protection in a few simple steps with Freely travel insurance all in the palm of your hand. Freely Travel offers 24/7 emergency and medical support, 24/7 customer service. Plus, you can tailor your policy so you only pay for what you need, and adapt your cover in near real time. Add-ons such as car rental excess, snow sports or other activities also available. Receive 10% off your travel insurance policy with promo code: MOZO10. T&Cs apply, go to site for full detail.

    Go to site
    Details
  • Mozo Expert Choice Badge
    Comprehensive
    covid medical cover
    Yes
    covid cancellation cover
    No
    overseas hospital
    Unlimited
    cancellation cover
    Unlimited

    Enjoy unlimited medical cover and 24/7 emergency assistance services when you travel. Get unlimited cover for cancellation fees and prepaid travel expenses. Cover for luggage and travel documents. $5,000,000 personal liability cover.

    Go to site
    Details
  • Mozo Expert Choice Badge
    Comprehensive
    covid medical cover
    Yes
    covid cancellation cover
    Yes
    overseas hospital
    Unlimited
    cancellation cover
    Choose $10,000 to Unlimited

    Backed by the NIB, one of Australia’s largest travel insurance providers, Travel Insurance Saver brings you peace of mind on your travels. Compare three tiers of insurance cover, featuring benefits like 24 hour emergency assistance, emergency medical cover, luggage cover, cancellation cover and more.

    Go to site
    Details