Bryte Travel Index 2025 reveals: South Africans are redefining travel

South Africans are travelling differently, more consciously, more creatively and more connected than ever before. This is one of the key findings from the Bryte Travel Index 2025: “The Age of Everywhere”, which tracks evolving travel patterns, behavioural shifts, and the changing nature of risk among South African travellers.

The Travel Index analyses travel behaviour, claims data, and insurance patterns from 2022 to 2025, uncovering key trends that define how South Africans are exploring the world post-pandemic. The findings show that South Africans are travelling with greater purpose, seeking cultural connection, personal growth, and experiences that are both meaningful and memorable.

Travellers are embracing the world more consciously, striking a balance between curiosity and awareness of global uncertainties. The Index highlights a growing appetite for authentic, experience-driven travel, where people immerse themselves in local cultures rather than simply visiting destinations.

“Travel is evolving; it’s no longer just about where you go, but how you experience it,” says Khulekani Nokweni, Travel Underwriting Manager at Bryte Insurance Company Limited. “The only way to truly know a place is to know its people and culture. We are seeing a powerful shift towards experiential travel. Travellers want to live the local rhythm, not just see the landmarks. At Bryte, we encourage South Africans to approach risk with purpose, to plan with care, travel with confidence, and see insurance protection as part of every great journey.”

Travel trends shaping the 2025 landscape
According to the Bryte Travel Index, several key patterns define how South Africans are moving around this year:

1. South Africans are travelling more often, but for shorter periods
The long, extended holiday is being replaced by shorter, more frequent getaways. Average single-trip durations have decreased from 28 days in 2022 to 23 days in 2025, as travellers opt for compact, well-planned breaks that align with global travel norms. Rising costs, currency pressure, and hybrid work arrangements are driving this shift toward flexible, modular travel.

2.Cultural immersion defines meaningful travel
Travellers increasingly seek to connect with local culture and community life. Destinations such as Turkey, Mauritius, and the UK remain firm favourites, while the United States stands out for longer stays and higher exposure to travel risks, reflecting a blend of purposes such as study, work, and family visits.

3. Smarter planning meets rising uncertainty
While geopolitical and economic conditions remain unpredictable, travellers are not deterred. Instead, they are planning more proactively – using AI tools for itinerary management, comparing policy options online and favouring insurers that provide rapid support and clear communication.

4.Travel is now truly multi-generational
Travel insurance usage spans every age group, from infants to retirees in their 80s. While young adults continue to generate high claim volumes, travellers over 60 account for the largest financial impact, driven by long-haul trips and medical needs. Family and intergenerational travel is becoming a key feature of the South African travel story.

Agility and cultural understanding
The Index underscores that confident travel is about readiness as much as adventure. South Africans are increasingly aware that informed decisions, from health precautions to logistical planning, are essential parts of every journey.

“South Africans are adventurous by nature, but they also value security and peace of mind,” says. “Our goal is to help travellers approach risk with purpose to be confident, prepared, and free to embrace new experiences, knowing that the right insurance protection for their trip is always in place.”

Educating travellers remains essential
The findings reaffirm the importance of travel education and awareness, particularly during peak seasons such as the festive and Easter holidays, when travel volumes surge. Ongoing education helps travellers understand the value of protection, the realities of risk, and the steps that lead to safer, more confident exploration.

“As travel continues to evolve, so must the way we think about risk,” concludes Njokweni. “When travellers approach risk with purpose, they make better decisions, protect their experiences, and return home with memories instead of mishaps.”