Spaniards Spending on Summer Holidays Edges Up After a Dip
Spaniards are expected to spend about 610 euros on average during the summer holidays. This marks an increase from 566 euros in prior years, the lowest figure since last year and the first rise since 2018 indicating a cautious rebound in travel spending.
New data from the Emiros National Tourism Observatory, through its ObservaTUR summer report released this week, shows that international destinations are gaining momentum for the season. While activity has not yet reached pre-pandemic levels, there is a clear improvement in international travel plans among households, signaling growing confidence in cross-border trips as borders reopen and travel options expand.
The report notes a notable rise in the share of people planning to travel in the coming months, increasing by more than 20 percentage points. Overall, about 89 percent of Spaniards surveyed indicated some level of intention to depart, with a subset showing a slightly reduced outlook compared to earlier expectations. The trend points to a gradual return to international travel, even as air travel faces pressures from evolving conditions in the aviation sector and ongoing adjustments to schedules and pricing.
Industry observers express concern about macroeconomic factors that could influence holiday planning. Prices, particularly energy costs, and the broader economic environment are shaping traveler decisions. The conflict in Ukraine continues to affect energy markets and logistics, adding another layer of caution for households budgeting for vacations.
Within Spain itself, the hotel sector remains strong, reinforcing accommodation as the most popular choice for many travelers. Occupancy and booking patterns show a nine-point uplift versus 2021, underscoring renewed demand. However, year-on-year comparisons with 2019 reveal that while hotels are performing better, average stays are becoming shorter as travelers seek flexible itineraries and more affordable options, balancing desire for comfort with value-conscious planning. This evolution reflects a broader shift in how Spaniards allocate their summer leisure time and resources, with many prioritizing efficient trips that maximize experience while containing costs. Source attribution: ObservaTUR summer report (Emiros National Tourism Observatory).