The impact COVID-19 has had on our lives has made the past year one of the hardest, but new research reveals our appetite to explore the world remains undiminished.

The research by Booking.com uncovers what Aussie travellers feel most hopeful about, where travel lies in their priorities and what support they believe the travel industry needs to get back on its feet.

Travel wins in post pandemic priorities

Despite feeling mostly optimistic, Australian travellers acknowledge that not being able to travel in 2020 like they did previously has had a significant effect on their well-being, with 47% reporting a negative impact on their mental health.

When asked which they'd rather experience this year, travel tops other priorities with almost three quarters (72%) of Aussies preferring to go on a holiday than to find true love or success at work, preferring to go on holiday than get promoted.

Travellers' optimism returns as vaccines fuel hope

Despite knowing the pandemic finish line hasn't been reached just yet, two thirds of Australian travellers (67%) feel more hopeful about traveling in 2021 due to the unwavering commitment of the scientific and medical communities and the roll-out of COVID-19 vaccines.

Travellers willing to put in the effort for a common goal

To help travellers prepare for overseas travel again safely, Aussies are willing to roll up their sleeves, with two-thirds (67%) of travellers willing to accept only being able to travel if they could prove they have been vaccinated. Meanwhile 69% would accept having to wear a face mask when traveling, with 64% going as far as supporting a 'no mask no travel' ban (unless exempt).

Luke Wilson, Area Manager Australia at Booking.com, says the opening of the trans-Tasman bubble is evidence of the collective positive attitude Aussies displayed in uniting against COVID-19 and is a promising first step to resuming international travel.

"With the opening of the trans-Tasman bubble, Booking.com remains ever more optimistic that at some point in the not-so-distant future, everyone may once again be able to travel and experience the world together.

It's our mission to make it easier for everyone to experience the world, when the time is right to discover the places, cultures and experiences we've all been dreaming of, we will make sure you can find them on Booking.com."