According to data from Accenture’s Annual Christmas Shopping Survey, conducted with approximately 500 Spanish consumers, a large number plan to travel or gift a trip this Christmas. However, the complexity of the booking process, along with numerous options and decisions travelers face, may lead to a loss of revenue for the tourism sector.

The survey reveals that nearly three in ten Spaniards plan to travel to visit family and friends, and 15% are expected to go on vacation or a getaway this season. There are notable generational differences, as 23% of older Millennials (ages 36 to 43) plan to travel during Christmas compared to just 9% of Baby Boomers (ages 60 to 69).

Moreover, over six in ten consumers (64%) intend to gift trips and experiences during the holidays, such as vacation packages or weekend getaways. However, for many, the process of purchasing trips and experiences feels too lengthy and complicated. Reasons that deter consumers include the 40% who feel discouraged by needing to confirm the exact date and time of travel, 27% who abandon the idea of buying a trip as a gift due to having to book without knowing specific details about the traveler, and 26% who cite difficulty making changes to itineraries. Additionally, 20% face administrative issues when booking a trip as a gift, as they are the ones making the reservation and not the traveler.

Spaniards Feel Blocked by Information Overload

According to Accenture’s findings, 70% of consumers are unsure where to begin when making their Christmas purchases, and nearly eight out of ten (78%) worry about making a wrong purchase decision and regretting it.

90% of buyers in Spain wish they could make quicker, easier, and more secure decisions about what to buy, and over three-quarters (77%) state they would appreciate receiving inspiration. Thus, travel companies can differentiate themselves and boost revenues by inspiring and guiding consumers at every stage of their purchasing journey.

However, as the high shopping season approaches, a significant number of consumers (76%) may experience “shopping paralysis,” feeling overwhelmed by the number of options available. As a result, the vast majority (85%) say they will abandon their shopping carts out of frustration or indecision, and 28% will purchase elsewhere.