The trend of travel among Europeans showcases the stark economic disparities present across the EU, revealing where financial limitations significantly hinder holiday plans. Euronews Business examines which demographics are most affected by these restrictions on leisure travel.
Summer often signifies vacation time for countless individuals across Europe. After dedicating seven months to work, August presents an ideal opportunity to unwind and escape to idyllic destinations for a sunny getaway. However, many Europeans still find holidays to be a luxury rather than a standard expectation.
Based on Eurostat data, approximately 29% of individuals aged 16 and older in the EU found themselves unable to afford a one-week holiday as of 2023. In contrast, 62% of the EU population aged 15 and over managed to take at least one trip for leisure purposes in 2022, with these trips involving more than one overnight stay. This indicates that 38% of EU citizens did not embark on any personal getaway throughout the year. However, Eurostat does not specify if financial constraints were the direct cause of this absence in travel.
Who in the EU is Missing Out on Holidays?
In Spain, 33% of the population reports being unable to afford a week-long vacation. This figure is closely followed by Italy at 32%, with France and Germany at 25% and 23%, respectively. Notably, Romania faces a higher challenge, with 60% of its citizens unable to take vacations, alongside Bulgaria (44%) and Hungary (43%).
Interestingly, Norway stands out as a notable exception. Here, only 7.9% of residents are financially hindered from enjoying travel.
Understanding Economic Disparities within the EU
The variations in travel capabilities among EU nations are largely attributed to each country’s economic health. As highlighted by Professor Lynn Minnaert, Dean of the School of Hospitality at the Metropolitan State University of Denver, “Countries at the bottom of the list have higher GDPs than those at the top.” This correlates directly with the level of disposable income, which influences people’s ability to spend on holidays.
Additionally, a study conducted by Eurostat in 2022 reveals that 84% of individuals in the Netherlands took at least one vacation that year, followed by Luxembourg (83%) and Finland (81%). Conversely, only 28% of the populations in Bulgaria and Romania traveled for leisure.
While financial challenges are a significant factor affecting travel habits, other cultural and geographic elements also play a crucial role in determining travel patterns, according to Professor Hall.
Which Countries Invest the Most in Holidays?
Eurostat’s data also indicates significant differences in average tourism spending per person across various European nations. In 2022, Luxembourg led the way with the highest tourism expenditure per night, totaling €175, followed closely by Austria at €154, while the EU average rested at €87. It’s important to note that these figures represent spending by tourists based on their country of residence, rather than expenditure by visitors in that country.
Among the largest economies, Germany boasts the highest average nightly spending at €109, while France (€84), Spain, and Italy (both €72) fall below the average.
Higher Spending on International Trips
The average expenditure per night also sees a divergence based on whether trips are domestic or international. Typically, travelers tend to allocate more funds for overnight stays abroad compared to domestic trips. In 2022, EU residents averaged spending €68 per night for domestic travel and €117 for trips abroad.
In certain countries, average spending on domestic tourism dipped below €40, even falling under €30 in places like Czechia and Latvia. Conversely, Austria displayed the highest domestic average spending, amounting to €138.
A striking contrast emerges, as residents in many nations spent significantly more on international trips than on domestic ones. Latvia recorded a ratio of 3.7, while Czechia followed at 2.8.
Regarding total tourism expenditure per trip rather than per night, Luxembourg again led with an impressive average of €1,261, succeeded by Austria at €720 and Germany at €650.
Where Do People Spend Their Travel Budgets?
In 2022, the estimated total expenditure on tourism by EU residents reached €474 billion, with a majority (53%) allocated to international trips. In 17 out of 26 EU nations for which data was available, over half of tourism expenses went towards trips abroad.
Luxembourgers significantly prioritized international travel, with a staggering 98% of their tourism budget spent abroad. They were followed by Belgian residents (90%), Maltese (89%), Cypriots (84%), and Dutch (81%).
In contrast, more than 70% of tourism expenditures by residents of Romania, Greece, and France were dedicated to domestic voyages. As a broader trend, EU residents allocated 6% of their tourism spending to trips to America, 4% to Asia, and 3% to Africa.
Photo credit & article inspired by: Euronews
