The countdown to Mother’s Day is on and new research from the Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF) shows that most Aussie mums— and mother figures—would prefer the gift of a weekend away, rather than a traditional present.

The research found that nearly four in five (78 per cent) Australian mums would be interested in receiving a staycation or holiday for their Mother’s Day present this year, with more than half of mums (52 per cent) saying they’d love to receive a trip away with their partner and/or children.

One in five (20 per cent) are craving a solo escape, while five per cent of mums would prefer a trip away with friends.

TTF CEO Margy Osmond said: “A card or a bunch of flowers for mum is always appreciated, but what we’re seeing is a clear shift in how Australians are choosing to celebrate special occasions. Travel stands out because it gives families something far more meaningful; time together, shared experiences, and memories that last well beyond the trip itself.

“With almost 80 per cent of mums saying they would like to receive a staycation or holiday for Mother’s Day this year, the message is very clear. Mums are looking for time to connect with loved ones, time to step away from routine, and time to properly rest and recharge.”

The research shows that gifting travel is already on the radar for many Australians with over half of the nation (51 per cent) having either already gifted mum a trip or would like to in future. Younger Australians are leading the trend with 35-44-year-olds (32 per cent) and 25-34-year-olds (28 per cent) the most likely to have done this before.

Ms Osmond said: “Gifting travel is something many Australians are embracing, or actively considering, reflecting a broader shift towards experience-based gifting over traditional presents.

"At its core, this is about mums wanting a pause from the everyday, whether it’s a short staycation or a longer escape.

“This research reinforces what many already understand instinctively, mums are often time poor, and it’s experience-based gifts like travel that feel most valuable and memorable.”

TFE Hotels Senior Director of Operations ANZ Tish Nyar said: “Mothers deserve moments that feel special. This Mother’s Day, we’re encouraging Australians to continue travelling into our great cities like Sydney and Melbourne, where hospitality teams work hand in hand to deliver meaningful experiences.

"Even amid current fuel challenges, supporting domestic travel is important role in sustaining jobs and the visitor economy.”