School holiday season is here, and Aussies aren’t just hitting the road - they’re following the music. Many families are planning their itineraries around live performances, street artists, and local arts, turning ordinary drives into cultural adventures for everyone to enjoy.

With affordability and flexibility top of mind, many families are discovering that road trips allow them to focus on shared experiences rather than fixed destinations. Research from East Coast Car Rentals shows that live performances and street acts are influencing the way Australians plan their journeys, with 56% of Australians believing discovering local buskers is an important part of a holiday.

Ben Whitmore, Chief Marketing Officer at East Coast Car Rentals, says, “What families really want from a road trip is the chance to create memories together without overspending. Our research has revealed that three-quarters of Australians would actually stop and explore a town if they spotted live music or street performers - after all, it's those little moments that turn a road trip into something truly memorable.”

Experiences Over Schedules

Rather than focusing on reaching a final destination, families are increasingly choosing journeys that allow them to discover unexpected experiences along the way, from music in a town square to spontaneous street performances in regional halls. These encounters often become the stories children remember most and give parents the chance to slow down, enjoy the surroundings, and share meaningful moments.

Why Flexibility Matters

The most memorable trips come from staying flexible instead of ticking off a pre-set list of attractions. Families can extend a stay in a market town alive with buskers or adjust plans to catch a local festival nearby, experiencing a region’s culture as it unfolds. This approach turns holidays into dynamic, memorable adventures instead of a series of boxes to check.

Planning Around Arts and Music

Parents are shaping itineraries around music, arts, and local culture, timing trips to catch live performances or explore towns known for their creative energy - not just for the kids, but for the joy and discovery it brings them too. By breaking up the journey and making the trip itself part of the holiday, families can turn every stop into an experience, often enjoying free or low-cost activities that add depth and excitement to the break.

Communities at the Heart of the Journey

No longer just places to sleep or refuel, small towns and regional centres now offer experiences that can shape an entire trip. Markets, arts trails, and seasonal events attract those who want children to encounter authentic, interactive experiences - be it engaging with performers, hearing live music, or participating in local traditions.

A Holiday Full of Discovery

The modern family road trip is less about ticking off landmarks and more about engaging with the culture and creativity along the way. Flexible planning, attention to local music, performances, and arts ensure that each journey inspires curiosity and encourages connection - ultimately leaving families with lasting memories that extend far beyond the school holiday period.