Strong winter travel intentions and confidence for 2023 travel, despite current financial pressures

Allianz Partners’ International Vacation Confidence Index has found that almost two-thirds (63%) of people across nine European countries expect to take a leisure trip of three days or more between January and March, either domestically or abroad, showing strong travel intentions across Europe this winter.

The International Vacation Confidence Index, carried out by OpinionWay in January 2023 on behalf of Allianz Partners, surveyed 9,337 people across Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Switzerland, UK and Poland, with the aim of gaining an insight into consumer trust and travel intentions in the first three months of 2023 – and the main concerns facing travelers this winter.

The research also shows that despite the widespread squeeze on consumer spending, foreign travel intentions are proving very strong: almost a quarter (23%) of those surveyed plan to take a foreign vacation in the first three months of 2023.

A few key trends:

  • The top three reasons to get away this winter are three ’R’s: relaxation, relatives and reconnecting with nature.
  • Despite inflation and the cost of living crisis, the average traveler expects to spend more than €1500.
  • While cost pressures are not undermining demand, they are affecting travel plans for some.
  • In the wake of 2022’s travel issues, expectations of disruption remain elevated.
  • Fears about health are no longer stopping people from travelling.
  • More people now buy travel insurance to protect against cancellation or disruption than to cover medical assistance. 
  • 75% of Europeans are confident about vacation prospects in 2023. 

"Europeans’ desire to travel for pleasure this winter is remarkably buoyant – even in the face of increased costs and economic uncertainty. It’s around a year since most European countries lifted their final pandemic-related travel restrictions, and Europeans have rediscovered the unique benefits that travel brings: an opportunity to relax, see family, and enjoy nature."

Joe Mason, Chief Marketing Officer – Travel, Allianz Partners

If you would like to find out more about Allianz Partners' States of Mind Report, please get in touch: 

FleishmanHillard: allianzpartners@fleishmaneurope.com