Rome – The summer of 2026 is revealing a deep divide: While millions of Italians are heading to the coast, the mountains, or abroad, a growing portion of the population is simply staying home—not by choice, but due to a lack of money. According to a survey by the Confcooperative Research Center, approximately 8.9 million people are forgoing travel this August for economic reasons.
The survey cites a lack of financial resources as the most common reason; more than half of those affected say they simply cannot afford a vacation. This is followed by family and health-related reasons. At the same time, the survey reveals the other side of the coin: About 17 million Italians are traveling in August and collectively spend roughly 18.5 billion euros on their vacations.
A Country Divided
The association’s president speaks of a polarized country. Tourism reaffirms its central role in the Italian economy, but the figures reveal two realities: Some people are maintaining their spending power, while others are unable to afford a vacation at all. Experts are also observing a trend toward shorter stays—those who do travel often stay for shorter periods and are more cost-conscious.
Gas prices are having a particularly significant impact. At the gas pump alone, travelers are estimated to be spending about one billion euros more this summer than in quieter times—an extra cost that is putting an additional strain on many families. Rising prices for lodging, restaurants, and leisure activities are adding to the burden.
For the tourism industry, this is a mixed picture. Businesses along the coast and on lakes are enjoying full occupancy, but the purchasing power of many guests is dwindling. And behind the record numbers of the summer season lies the silent group of those for whom a vacation this year has remained an unattainable luxury.
