Europeans Hunting for Alternative Travel Choices Amid Cost Concerns
European Travel Commission (ETC) has recently revealed that the overall number of Europeans planning trips from June to November 2023 has decreased by four per cent compared to the previous year due to cost worries.
However, the same source said that despite the decrease, 69 per cent of Europeans still plan to take a trip in this six-month period, SchengenVisaInfo.com reports.
Based on ETC’s report, among the nationalities, Austrians show the highest level of hesitation to take a trip amid cost concerns, with only 45 per cent of respondents having travel plans. The Swiss follow with 56 per cent of respondents planning trips, and Germans with 62 per cent planning trips.
On the other hand, the French, Belgians, and British exhibited a higher level of eagerness to travel despite the inflation. The French have the highest proportion, with 80 per cent of respondents planning trips. The Belgians closely follow with 79 per cent planning trips, and the British have 75 per cent planning trips.
“Our latest data shows that concerns over inflation and personal finances persist among European travellers. Nevertheless, Europeans are still eager to travel in the upcoming months,” President of ETC Miguel Sanz pointed out in this regard.
Europeans Embrace Off-Season Exploration & Budget-Friendly Destinations
Nearly a quarter of European travellers are concerned about the overall increase in trip costs, which has risen by six per cent compared to the previous year. In addition, 17 per cent of these travellers are worried about their economic situation and financial stability.
For this reason, Europeans are adopting various strategies before deciding to take a trip. A significant portion, 17 per cent, are choosing to travel during the off-season to take advantage of better prices, while 14 per cent are opting for destinations they perceive as more affordable.
Furthermore, 13 per cent of European travellers actively seek cheaper airfares by booking flights earlier than usual, and 12 per cent are planning to fly with low-cost airlines.
According to the ETC report, European travellers are also adapting their behaviour at their destination to align with their available budgets.
Data from the same source show that to manage costs, 17 per cent plan to reduce their shopping expenses, 15 per cent plan to seek out more economical restaurants, and an additional 15 per cent plan to select less expensive accommodation options.
Apart from the rising costs, there are other concerns among European travellers. About nine per cent are apprehensive about booking and cancellation policies, and eight per cent are worried about the possibility of extreme weather conditions impacting their travel plans.
More Than Half of Europeans Plan to Take Vacations Within Region
Europe continues to be the preferred choice for respondents, with 59 per cent planning a holiday within the region. However, there has been a three per cent increase in the number of people aiming to take a trip outside of Europe compared to 2022.
On the other hand, domestic travel has declined in popularity, dropping by six per cent, with only 26 per cent of travellers opting for a “staycation” in the upcoming months.
Among the preferred destinations within Europe, Spain remains at the top, with eight per cent of travellers planning a vacation there. France and Italy follow closely with seven per cent each, while Greece and Croatia are chosen by five per cent of respondents.
Moreover, despite the increasing costs of living, European travellers are showing a strong desire to embark on multiple trips.
Thirty-three per cent of respondents plan to travel twice, while 26 per cent intend to travel at least three times during the summer and autumn seasons. However, there is a slight decrease of four per cent compared to last year, with 30 per cent of travellers considering only one trip.
Events & Business Trips Rise in Popularity for European Travellers
Regarding the duration of their trips, 36 per cent of European travellers are opting for shorter stays of less than a week, typically lasting four to six nights. Another 27 per cent are planning to stay for a slightly longer duration of seven to nine nights.
Travelling to attend specific events is gaining popularity among European travellers, with ten per cent planning such trips between June and November 2023. This is a significant increase from the four per cent reported last year.
In addition, there has been a four per cent rise in business travel, with nine per cent of respondents intending to embark on work-related trips. Despite a six per cent decline from the same period in 2022, leisure travel remains the top choice for most Europeans, with 68 per cent planning trips for recreational purposes.
>> EU Travel & Tourism Sector to Reach 98% of Pre-Pandemic Levels This Year
