68 per cent of surveyed Europeans have intentions to travel between October 2023 and March 2024, marking a two per cent decrease when compared to the same period last year, a recent survey conducted by the European Travel Commission (ETC) has revealed.
The survey results suggest that this decrease may be attributed to increased travel costs, SchengenVisaInfo.com reports.
Among the ten surveyed countries, 22 per cent of respondents acknowledged that their primary concern regarding travel plans is the significantly increasing costs.
Furthermore, the survey revealed that 16 per cent of Europeans who arranged travel plans are concerned about their financial situation.
We are very glad to see that European travellers continue to prioritise their travel spend, even in light of ongoing worries about increasing travel costs and personal finances.
Miguel Sanz, President of ETC
Considering the high travel costs, the survey highlights Europeans’ efforts to make trips more affordable. The report reveals that 22 per cent of European respondents plan to travel during the off-season for cost savings, while 13 per cent intend to choose more affordable destinations.
Further insights from the survey indicate that 12 per cent of respondents prefer low-cost flights, 11 per cent prefer backpacker-style travel, and nine per cent actively seek last-minute flight deals.
Additionally, 13 per cent of participants plan to take advantage of early booking for flights and accommodations, hoping for reduced costs during that specific period.
The same source revealed that 27 per cent of Europeans worried about their financial situation will spend much less on travel expenses, while 60 per cent of those concerned by increasing travel costs will stick to their usual travel budget.
Based on the survey data, the top four markets concerned with rising travel costs are as follows: Poland 927 per cent), Spain (24 per cent), Italy (24 per cent) and France (24 per cent).
Similarly, the top four countries concerned about personal finances are Poland and the UK, both at 17 per cent, along with Spain and Belgium, each at 16 per cent.
The survey also shows that even during their travels, Europeans are mindful of their personal finances. This is reflected in their choices, with 17 per cent cutting shopping expenses, 15 per cent spending less on accommodation and dining, and 12 per cent choosing public transportation or bike rentals.
In July of this year, ETC conducted a similar survey, revealing that Europeans hesitated to travel due to cost concerns, encouraging them to seek alternative and budget-friendly travel options. Those surveys demonstrate that Europeans remain concerned about travel costs, suggesting that these concerns continue.
