The weekly shopping, the additional costs, going to the restaurant – many things have become significantly more expensive in recent months. According to a new study, however, many people do not want to go without a holiday trip despite their tight wallets. Instead, they prefer to accept significant compromises.

According to a study, instead of forgoing a vacation altogether in economically difficult times, Germans prefer to take slimmed-down vacations. According to a study by the Hamburg BAT Foundation for Future Issues, 73 percent of those surveyed want to cut back on souvenirs and shopping in order to keep travel costs under control despite inflation and high energy prices. 69 percent, in turn, traveled in the off-season instead of in the high season, 63 percent chose a travel destination that was as inexpensive as possible and 60 percent chose cheaper accommodation than usual.

The scientific director of the foundation, Prof. Ulrich Reinhardt, explained that the energy crisis, inflation and the Ukraine war emphasized the challenges of the present. “But instead of reacting with fear, despondency and reticence, Germans are reacting pragmatically – at least when it comes to vacations: they want to be on the road and are willing to make many compromises to do so.”

According to the study, more than half of those surveyed (56 percent) accept more cumbersome travel routes, such as alternative departure airports or longer transfer times, to reduce costs. 54 percent, on the other hand, were waiting for “bargains” and last-minute offers. 54 percent also stated that they no longer go to the restaurant so often at their holiday destination. 52 percent said they would no longer travel every year.

On the other hand, less than half of those surveyed (42 percent) can imagine doing without excursions at their holiday destination, shortening the travel time or spending the holiday with friends or family at a lower cost. According to the study, the last place on the savings list is the reduction of tips. Only 40 percent of respondents considered this possibility.

The results are part of the 39th German Tourism Analysis by the BAT Foundation for Future Issues, which is to be presented on Tuesday. For the study, the GfK institute surveyed 3,000 women and men aged 18 to 74 online in December 2022 and January 2023.

(This article was first published on Sunday, February 05, 2023.)