In a survey by the ÖAMTC, 95 percent said they were planning a vacation, more than ever before. 40 percent had already booked in April. However, 62 percent have to hold back on spending and want to save on accommodation, additional expenses or vacation duration.
At 1,062 euros per capita, the average vacation budget is the same as in 2023. Before Corona, only 50 to 60 percent of those surveyed said they were planning a vacation in April. After a slump during the Corona period, the desire to travel was already unusually strong at 78 percent in 2023, and this year it has affected practically everyone. As usual, it is mainly those under 30 who are drawn abroad, while vacations in Austria are particularly popular with those aged 50 to 59. In total, 70 percent of those surveyed are planning a trip across the border, half are (also) planning a vacation in Austria.
Cheap accommodation and last minute bargains
In view of the increase in prices, which is also noticeable in the most important holiday destinations, many people have to save money. Around a third of those affected therefore want to choose cheaper accommodation, cut expenses on site or shorten their vacation. Around a quarter want to avoid the off-season or take advantage of last-minute bargains.
“55 percent want to stay in a hotel – that’s ten percent less than in the previous year. At the holiday destination itself, for example when visiting restaurants or going on excursions, people pay more attention to their wallets,” writes ÖAMTC expert Yvette Polasek regarding the data. The sea has the greatest attraction. Behind it follow cities and then the mountains.
Italy and Croatia remain leaders
Italy, ahead of Croatia, are once more the most sought-following holiday destinations – ahead of Greece, Spain and Germany. These are the same top 5 destination countries as last year, with Germany falling from third place to fifth place and Croatia being almost as popular as Italy. Turkey follows behind as the most popular country outside the EU. Long-distance travel is aimed at 8 percent.
The survey was carried out on behalf of the ÖAMTC by the market and opinion research institute KANTAR Info Research Austria between April 2nd and 10th, 2024 among 1,000 people. According to the ÖAMTC, the results are representative of the Austrian population between 18 and 69 years of age.
