The 2024 Christmas holidays are confirming a recovery in consumption for Italians, especially in travel. Despite a third of Italians declaring that they want to reduce grocery Compared to 2023, on average 50 euros more was spent per person on gifts, while a real boom is expected for travel, with as much as 50% more.
This is what emerges from the annual survey of Altroconsumo, from a representative sample of 1.186 people, aged between 18 and 74.
Gifts, Travel and Holiday Stress
One of the main items of expenditure is represented by gifts for relatives and friends, an aspect that, if on the one hand brings joy, on the other hand generates a good dose of stress for two out of five Italians. In fact, for many, the Christmas period is associated with the rush to buy gifts, with the feeling of having to spend more than expected. Social pressure, the desire to make a good impression and the need to meet other people’s expectations contribute to increasing the budget. Another interesting fact is that 18% of those interviewed said they will wait for the sale of January to complete Christmas shopping, with the aim of saving something on the last gifts. So “late” gifts are also expected.
However, despite budget concerns, there is a clear intention to invest more in experiences related to travel and holidays, especially during the New Year period. Forecasts indicate that those planning to go on vacation are preparing for a significant increase in spending, with a holiday budget that, as mentioned, grows by 50% compared to the previous year. This year, in fact, Italians seem willing to spend more to enjoy a relaxing period or for trips away from home, contributing to an increase in total spending for the holidays. In many cases, spending on travel will be higher than spending on gifts.
A major expense
The overall expenditure for Christmas 2024 represents, on average, about a quarter of the monthly family income. This data reveals how, despite the desire to limit consumption, Italians still feel ready to invest to celebrate the holidays, with a total amount that exceeds 490 euros per person. Spending choices are not limited to gifts, but also include food, drinks and Christmas decorations, creating a vicious circle of additional expenses that increase the final amount.
