As the year winds down, many European workers still haven’t decided how to spend their remaining vacation days. A new Mastercard survey of 20,000 people across 21 European countries shows that nearly half (47%) have between seven and 20 days left. Most hope to use the time for a “dream” trip, while others seek live entertainment, outdoor activities or Christmas markets.

Cost pressures stall travel plans

According to the study, the biggest obstacle is financial. About 23% say they need more time to save or plan travel expenses, Euronews reports. The highest share of cost-related concerns comes from Serbia (40%), followed by Bulgaria (33%), Romania (32%), Croatia (27%) and Ireland (27%).

By contrast, respondents in the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, Czechia and Cyprus appear less constrained by money. Instead, many—especially the Dutch—are waiting for the right deal before booking. The same trend is visible among Britons, Portuguese, French and notably Croatians.

How generations differ

Work and family duties also get in the way. Twelve percent of consumers say they haven’t booked a Christmas activity because they’re too busy. Generation X is the least likely to squeeze in a bucket-list experience before year’s end (57%), while Generation Z emerges as the most determined (74%), ahead of millennials (69%).

Despite the delays, optimism remains relatively strong. Two-thirds of Europeans believe they will still achieve their end-of-year goals, while 30% hope to do so but are unsure. Confidence is lowest in the UK, where only 34% expect to enjoy another leisure experience before 2026. The Netherlands (41%), Belgium (46%), Ireland (49%) and France (51%) follow.

The sacrifices behind the getaway

As Euronews highlights, Europeans increasingly value experiences: 81% say such spending is always worthwhile. Many are deliberately adjusting their budgets to make travel possible. Clothing is the first expense to go, with 40% trimming that category, followed by dining out (39%) and luxury treats (32%). About a third are cutting back on tech gadgets, while a quarter are postponing home renovations to free up funds for holidays and memorable outings.