Christmas Spending Trends 2022: What A Survey Revealed
During November, a nationwide survey conducted by the Organization of Consumers and Users looked at a representative slice of the Hispanic population to gauge how much people expected to spend during the Christmas season. The findings indicated a notable rise, with overall expenses climbing roughly 15 percent to reach about 735 euros. The greater portion of spending growth appeared in gifts, travel, and social events, painting a picture of a festive season that mixes generosity with careful budgeting for many households.
In more detail, the report shows that gift spending marked a pronounced increase. Households planned to allocate around 393 euros for presents, up from 348 euros the previous year. Travel and vacations were projected to cost about 101 euros rather than 80 euros in 2021, and spending on Christmas lottery entries rose to 70 euros from 61 euros in 2021. Food-related gatherings remained a significant line item, with dinners and lunches among friends and colleagues estimated at 138 euros. These categories collectively illustrate where consumers felt comfortable prioritizing during the season.
Despite the overall rise in planned expenses, a portion of respondents planned to tighten their belts. Approximately 28 percent indicated an intention to spend less this year than the previous one, reflecting a cautious approach amid ongoing cost concerns for many families.
On the flip side, the survey confirmed that festive outings and experiences continued to grow in popularity as Christmas dates approached. A majority, 62 percent, planned to visit Christmas markets, up from 51 percent the prior year. More than half, 56 percent, intended to attend the Three Kings Parade, increasing from 45 percent in 2021. Social dining with colleagues also remained a common activity, with 44 percent planning lunches or dinners together, compared with 34 percent the year before. These patterns suggest that communal and cultural experiences remained central to seasonal celebrations.
Another notable shift is the return to normal social routines after two years of pandemic restrictions. A large majority, 83 percent, approved attending dinners and lunches with family members who do not live in the same residence, a higher level of comfort than the 67 percent reported the previous year. This signals renewed confidence in gathering with extended family during the season.
There was also a visible expectation of changes in how shopping would occur. Some households planned to increase in-store purchases for Christmas, with 11 percent saying they would shop more in person, while 17 percent anticipated shopping online less than in 2021. In total, 29 percent of respondents reported they would buy mainly from street stores. These trends point to a mix of traditional, physical shopping and selective online use during the holiday period.
The survey also highlighted the common pressures associated with Christmas shopping. About half of respondents believed they would spend more than they had initially planned, and roughly a quarter expressed a preference for giving gifts in January to take advantage of potential discounts. Regardless of budgeting intentions, more than one in three admitted that the process of finding gifts was a source of significant stress for many people. The data suggest that the holiday season carries both opportunities for generosity and real concerns about financial strain and decision fatigue.
Across these insights, the message remains clear: households approach Christmas with a blend of optimism about spending power and careful consideration of where money goes. The evolving mix of gifts, travel, social meals, and festive experiences reflects broader economic conditions and shifting attitudes toward seasonal traditions. The findings from this OCU survey offer a detailed snapshot of how households in the region balance celebration with financial realities during the holiday period.