New survey reinforces the trend: Extreme heat is shifting holiday travel from summer to autumn

According to the survey, conducted by Indikator on behalf of SVT, 48 per cent say that the risk of periods of extreme heat makes them less likely to travel to Europe during the summer in future. Of these, 26 per cent say they are much less likely, while 22 per cent say they are somewhat less likely.

The result is in line with a development that Travel News has previously described. As early as last summer, several tour operators reported that the seasons in the Mediterranean are gradually being extended as more people choose to travel in spring and autumn instead of during the hottest summer months. At the same time, the operators have expanded their programmes with more departures in spring and autumn and highlighted destinations where the climate is more pleasant outside the peak season.

Travel expert Lottie Knutson believes the development will continue.

- More and more people will avoid the Mediterranean during the hottest months and instead travel in spring and autumn. I also think many will want to stay in Sweden, she tells SVT.

She believes the change could have major significance for both the travel industry and the Swedish visitor economy.

- It is a fantastic opportunity for Sweden. Then, of course, we must take care of it so that it becomes sustainable and beneficial in the long term. But economically, Sweden can benefit from this, says Lottie Knutson.

The survey also shows clear generational differences. Among people over 65, 39 per cent say they are much less inclined to holiday in Europe during the summer, compared with 10 per cent in the 18-29 age group.

At the same time, 36 per cent state that the extreme heat does not affect their holiday plans, while 9 per cent say that, on the contrary, they are more inclined to travel to Europe during the summer.

The survey was conducted by Indikator on behalf of SVT.