Despite facing financial constraints due to inflation outpacing nominal wage growth, South Africans are prioritizing their travel plans for December. According to Euan McNeil, Managing Director at Flight Centre South Africa, travellers in the country are cutting costs rather than cancelling trips, with many viewing travel as a valuable and essential part of their lives. Real take-home pay in South Africa decreased by 2.2% year-on-year in July 2026, reaching an average real net salary of R20,269.
A global pattern is emerging, with travellers worldwide adjusting their plans in response to rising prices. Skift's State of Travel 2026 report found that over half of respondents (52%) would still travel but adjust their plans due to rising prices, while 36% would continue travelling without cutting back. Only 1% planned to postpone or cancel. Flight Centre Travel Group's December numbers support this trend, with 31,100 nett ticket bookings forecast between 1 December and 6 January, up from 28,800 year-on-year.
The Flight Centre Travel Group's bookings reflect confirmed trips, after cancellations and refunds are stripped out, which bodes well for peak season. Volumes on Middle Eastern carriers are up on last year, helped by recovering confidence in Gulf carriers after earlier disruptions. Emirates now flies 49 times a week into the three main South African cities, offering competitive fares on long-haul flights. McNeil notes that clients are taking longer to move from quote to confirmation and are focused on fare types and flexibility.
South Africans are re-engineering their December trips to make the most of their limited budgets. Skift found that common cost-saving behaviours include looking for cheaper flights (37%), opting for less expensive destinations (30%), and shortening the trip (30%). Flight Centre's research shows that value for money is a clear priority for 97% of South African travellers, the highest of all their markets. As a result, travellers are seeking expert advice to ensure they spend their limited budgets effectively.
To make the most of their budgets, travellers are advised to book early and lock in lower baseline prices. This strategy can help avoid steep last-minute spikes and secure better dates, flights, and accommodation options. McNeil suggests trimming a trip's base costs and spending deliberately on a few key experiences that enhance the overall trip. This approach allows travellers to prioritize what matters most to them and make the most of their limited budgets.
The trend of "lux-scaping" is also emerging, where travellers book a single night of luxury at the start or end of a trip, with the rest of the trip kept modest and affordable. Marriott Bonvoy has identified this trend, which allows travellers to indulge in a special experience while still being mindful of their budgets. McNeil emphasizes the importance of planning ahead, particularly during peak season, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
As the December travel season approaches, travellers are advised to finalize their plans and make necessary arrangements. McNeil recommends checking passport validity, confirming visa requirements, and applying early to avoid peak-season backlogs. By planning ahead and being mindful of their budgets, South Africans can make the most of their December trips and prioritize the travel experiences that matter most to them.
Key points
- South Africans are prioritizing travel despite financial constraints, with many cutting costs rather than cancelling trips.
- The Flight Centre Travel Group is forecasting 31,100 nett ticket bookings between 1 December and 6 January, up from 28,800 year-on-year.
- Value for money is a clear priority for 97% of South African travellers, driving their cost-saving behaviours and travel decisions.
