Tourists "very clearly" want to control their budget this year, notes the president of Travel Companies

Six out of ten French people took to the road for their holidays this summer, recalls Valére Boned, president of the Travel Companies.

This year, tourists are "very clearly" looking to control their budgets. This observation has been made by "all sectors of tourism, whether mountain, outdoor accommodation, or travel agencies ," Valérie Boned, president of the Travel Companies, explained on franceinfo on Sunday, August 17. The organization brings together more than 1,600 companies that represent 85% of the travel agency market.

Valérie Boned adds that "60% of French people go on holiday, 40% never go on holiday. And of the 60%, some have a large budget to go, others are careful depending on the economic context." However, with the current economic situation, the French "need security." As proof, their "savings are high," she analyzes.

The president of the Travel Companies observes that French tourists are making choices. Some "are going away for shorter periods, especially those who usually stay at campsites, hotels, or certain areas," while others prefer "all- inclusive" options, meaning vacation spots where accommodation, meals, drinks, and often certain activities are included in the price, with no additional costs on site. "This allows you to know how much you're going to spend, more or less, before you go on vacation." Furthermore, for outdoor accommodation, Valérie Boned explains that vacationers "will take a smaller or bare pitch, bringing their tent, instead of renting a chalet or mobile home."

While they're keeping an eye on their budget, the French aren't giving up on their vacations. "Professionals have even noticed that the number of tourists has increased slightly compared to last year, especially in August, and the season is definitely not over," insists the president of the Travel Companies. However, "the average basket is lower because once you've paid for your accommodation and transportation, you pay attention to additional expenses," she repeats. "Restaurant owners see the difference, tourists are allowing themselves less leisure time."

The president of the Travel Companies also notes that the French are booking fewer long-haul trips (by plane over a long distance). "What we call long-haul has dropped by 16% this year for us," that is, for the companies represented by her organization. "It's true that flights are expensive, it hasn't dropped. Some French people who are used to traveling abroad have gone closer this year. The Mediterranean region remains popular with the French in the summer, Italy, Greece, Spain, the Maghreb...", Valérie Boned explains. She adds that for the United States, there is a "drop of about 20%."