More Croatians are expected to stay home this summer as financial pressures continue to influence household spending. A new survey found that 32% of respondents do not plan to take a summer holiday this year, up from 27% in 2025. Among those staying home, six in 10 said a lack of money was the main reason for their decision.
The survey, which included almost 500 respondents, also points to a shift toward shorter holidays among people who are still planning to take time off. Around 21% said they expect to take no more than seven days of vacation, compared with 15% last year. Meanwhile, only 3% plan to take three weeks or more, down from 7% in the previous survey, suggesting that longer breaks are becoming harder for many households to justify financially.
Domestic Holidays Remain the Most Popular Choice
The choice of destination also reflects pressure on household budgets. Croatia remains by far the most popular option, with 56% of respondents planning to spend their holiday somewhere within the country. At the same time, the share planning to travel abroad has fallen from 21% last year to 17% this year, suggesting that international travel is becoming less attractive for many workers seeking to control their expenses.
The findings come as Croatian households continue to deal with elevated living costs. Although Croatia’s economy has continued to grow and wages have increased, price pressures remain an important concern for consumers, particularly when it comes to discretionary spending such as travel and leisure. Tourism is also a major part of the Croatian economy, meaning changes in domestic travel habits could affect businesses that depend heavily on the summer season.
The survey does not indicate that Croatians are abandoning holidays altogether. Instead, many appear to be adjusting their plans to fit their available budgets. Shorter breaks, domestic destinations and lower overall spending can allow workers to take time off while avoiding some of the higher costs associated with longer or international trips.
Overall, the results highlight how the cost of living continues to influence everyday decisions in Croatia, including how people spend their summer. With more respondents choosing shorter holidays or staying home altogether, this year’s travel season could be shaped less by a lack of interest in taking a break and more by how much households can afford to spend.
