Sho’t Left Travel Week brings domestic deals ahead of year-end break

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The campaign comes as households continue to face pressure on discretionary spending. According to TransUnion’s Q2 2026 Consumer Pulse Study, 53% of South African consumers surveyed said they had cut back on discretionary spending such as dining out, travel and entertainment in the previous three months.

South African Tourism is encouraging travellers to plan their December breaks early and consider destinations and experiences within South Africa that fit their budgets.

This year’s Sho’t Left Travel Week will feature deals across all nine provinces, covering options for family holidays, trips with friends, couple’s getaways and shorter breaks.

Planning ahead can also give travellers more time to account for accommodation, activities and transport costs rather than making those expenses part of the December rush.

For Mashoto Mokgethi, head of domestic tourism at South African Tourism, the decision to take a break is not only about the destination or cost, but also what travellers need from their time away. “We know South Africans are making careful decisions about how they spend their money, especially when household budgets are stretched.

"This year, we are not only encouraging people to discover the hidden gems within their country, we are also asking them to think about why they need that break. For some, it is time with family. For others, it is rest, reconnecting with loved ones, spending time in nature or simply stepping away from a demanding year.”

“There are 1,000 reasons to Sho’t Left and there are experiences across South Africa for different budgets. You don’t always have to travel far or spend a fortune. Travel Week gives South Africans an opportunity to find affordable offers, book early and give themselves something to look forward to this December,” says Mokgethi.

Planning ahead

A year-end break does not necessarily require long-distance travel. Domestic options include road trips, nature stays, family holidays and visits to destinations closer to home.

Booking earlier can give travellers more time to compare options and factor travel costs into their festive-season budgets.