Inflation cannot dampen the desire for vacation

Despite noticeable price increases and geopolitical tensions, Austrians are not letting their desire to go on holiday this summer be dampened. Almost three quarters (73 percent) of those surveyed want to go away at least once between June and September, and 39 percent even more than once, according to the holiday barometer of the insurer Europ Assistance. Only 8 percent are staying at home completely.

• More on the subject: Off on holiday: Where Upper Austrians are travelling this year (OÖNplus)

A quarter (25 percent) go on holiday in Austria. Almost two thirds (64 percent) go abroad – preferably to Italy (27 percent), Croatia (16 percent), Spain and Greece (13 percent each). For more than two thirds, the sea is an important factor in choosing a destination. 21 percent go on holiday in the mountains.

• Also read: Austrians travelled more than ever in 2023: Air travel is increasing (OÖNplus)

For the majority, the weather and the range of leisure activities available locally are crucial, as stated by more than half (52 percent) of those surveyed. The available budget (47 percent) and local safety (29 percent) are also very important.

According to the survey, the holiday budget for this summer has increased by 6 percent from 2,360 to 2,499 euros compared to last year, which is in line with the European average (2,446 euros). According to the information, holidaymakers from America (3,952 euros), Australia (3,792 euros), Great Britain (3,123 euros) and Switzerland (4,073 euros) spend significantly more.

Become more selective and cautious

Given the still high inflation and geopolitical tensions, Europeans are generally “more selective and cautious when choosing their destination,” according to Europ Assistance. However, there are no doubts about the vacation itself. Rather, around half (52 percent) of those surveyed “pragmatically chose cheaper accommodation” or stayed longer in one place (49 percent) instead of traveling to several destinations. 41 percent adjusted their means of transport, 39 percent adjusted their budget or shortened their stay, and 41 percent adjusted their means of transport.

The ecological footprint is not yet so relevant for Austrians: According to the information, environmental concerns play a role for around 20 percent of those surveyed, but do not deter them from exploring new travel destinations and fulfilling their personal holiday wishes. More than half (54 percent) go on holiday in their own car, 46 percent take the plane, and 16 percent travel by train.

Preferably in the hotel

When it comes to accommodation, they mostly choose a hotel (63 percent), followed by holiday homes and apartments (28 percent); according to the survey, bed and breakfast (12 percent), camping (6 percent) and boats or cruises (3 percent) play a minor role.

The survey, commissioned by Europ Assistance, which is part of the Generali Group, was conducted between March 20 and April 7, 2024. 1,000 people in each of 21 countries were surveyed using an online questionnaire. In addition to Austria, people aged 18 and over in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland, Germany, Belgium, Poland, the Czech Republic, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, India, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan and Australia took part.