Travellyze blog

Discovering the Secrets of Swedish Travellers: Who They Are and What They Want

What motivates Swedish travellers to pack their bags and explore the world? This in-depth analysis reveals the preferences, habits, budget patterns and inspirations of this influential market segment. Discover how understanding their travel behaviour can help you create irresistible offerings and gain a competitive edge in the tourism industry.

What is the profile of a Swedish Traveller?

According to Eurostat, Swedish travellers predominantly fall within the 55-64 years age range, comprising 19.4% of the population. In terms of education, vocational education is the top level, representing 34.2% of the sample. Regarding civil status, 46% of respondents are cohabiting or married, indicating a preference for shared travel experiences.

Travel Budget: How Much Do Swedish Travellers Spend?

Swedish travellers demonstrate a broad range of spending habits, reflecting diverse preferences and travel goals. Here’s a breakdown of their primary budget categories:
  • €1,000–2,999 (32.44%): The largest group, these travellers prioritise quality experiences that offer good value for money, opting for balanced itineraries that blend comfort with affordability.
  • €3,000–4,999 (19.33%): This segment leans toward mid-range budgets, seeking immersive travel experiences, boutique accommodations, and cultural enrichment.
  • Up to €1,000 (16.22%): A more budget-conscious group, they often plan shorter trips or explore affordable destinations without sacrificing the essence of travel.
Looking ahead, 46.6% of Swedish travellers plan to maintain the same travel budget for the next year, indicating stability in their spending patterns. Interestingly, 14% plan to increase their travel budget, highlighting potential growth in premium travel options and more indulgent experiences.

What Inspires Swedish Travellers?

Understanding the top sources of inspiration for Swedish travellers helps destinations target this market effectively:
  • Family & Friends (72.6%): Personal recommendations remain the most influential, underscoring the importance of word-of-mouth marketing.
  • Search Engines (50.2%): Online searches are crucial for trip planning, highlighting the need for strong SEO and compelling digital content.
  • Online Review Sites (48%): Platforms like TripAdvisor play a significant role, emphasizing the value of positive reviews and online reputation management.
  • Instagram (41%): Visual platforms are key to capturing attention, particularly through curated travel content and influencer collaborations.
  • YouTube (36%): Video content offers an engaging way to showcase destinations and inspire travel decisions.

Top Travel Drivers and Essentials

Travel Drivers:

The primary motivators for Swedish travellers include:
  • Food Experiences (58.86%): Exploring local cuisines is a top priority.
  • Nature/Outdoor Experiences (54.13%): Activities like hiking and national park visits are highly appealing.
  • Going to the Beach (53.7%): Coastal destinations remain a favourite.
  • Visiting Small and Unique Towns (49.79%): The charm of quaint locales attracts many travellers.
  • Cultural & Historical Experiences (48.47%): Museums and heritage sites are also key attractions.

Travel Essentials:

Key factors influencing destination choice include:
  • Health and Hygiene Standards (67.98%): Cleanliness and safety protocols are critical.
  • Safety Standards/Low Crime Levels (64.5%): A safe environment is a top concern.
  • General Cleanliness (57.74%): Well-maintained public spaces enhance the travel experience.
  • Affordability (56.58%): Value for money is an important consideration.
  • Direct Flights (56.17%): Convenience in travel logistics is a priority.

Swedish Travellers Behaviour Analysis

The behaviour of Swedish travellers reveals distinct preferences in booking habits and accommodations:
Booking Preferences
  • Organisation – Separate bookings (92.14%): Swedish travellers value flexibility and control, allowing them to personalise their itineraries according to their specific preferences and needs.
  • Channel – Directly through providers’ websites (53.29%): This approach ensures transparency, reliability, and often provides access to exclusive deals or perks, making it a preferred method for bookings.
Accommodation Preferences
When it comes to lodging, Swedish travellers exhibit a diverse range of preferences:
  • 3-4 Star Hotels (54.32%): The most popular choice, offering a balance of comfort, affordability, and amenities.
  • Staying with Friends and Family (50.11%): A close second, reflecting the importance of personal connections and cost-effective options.
  • Camping (24.21%): Highlighting an appreciation for nature and outdoor adventures.
  • Private Rentals (23.16%): Providing unique, localised stays that allow for immersive experiences.
Holiday Types
Swedish travellers gravitate toward relaxation and natural beauty when choosing their holiday types:
  • Relaxing Holidays (68.42%): The top choice, emphasising the need for downtime and stress-free escapes.
  • Sun and Beach Holidays (62.47%): A classic favourite, offering warm climates and coastal charm.
  • Small and Unique Towns (42.33%): Appealing to those seeking authenticity and cultural richness away from the crowds.
Swedish travellers represent a valuable market with clear preferences and priorities. By adapting your offerings to their needs, you can gain a competitive edge in attracting this audience. Stay ahead of the curve by following us on LinkedIn for more actionable travel insights. You can also check out our article on the British Traveller.
Market intelligence Travel/tourism insights