Western shoppers spend big for the holidays
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Holiday spending on travel and gifts is higher in the West than any other part of the country, even as nationwide spending is expected to drop, according to PwC research shared with Axios.
Why it matters: There will still be trips and presents; they just might be less extravagant than in years past.
By the numbers: Holiday revelers in the West will plunk down an average of $1,214, exceeding the national average of $1,127 per adult, per PwC.
- Yes, but: Average gift spending nationally is expected to dip 2% to $708 this year.
- Travel spending could fall more sharply, dropping 24% from last year to $419.
Zoom in: Whatever savings travelers find, they won't be on flights out of PDX, where Thanksgiving and Christmas airfares are on track to reach their highest levels in a decade.
What they're saying: "Across income levels, the instinct is the same: Take the trip, cut the cost," PwC leaders wrote in a report.
- Think: Midrange hotels instead of four-star resorts, or staying with family when possible.
Inside the wrapping paper: Expect retro board games, books and art supplies, per PwC. Shoppers say they want to give screen-free, hands-on gifts — to adults as well as kids.
- Those buying tech gifts are weighing data privacy, parental controls and screen-time limits.
The bottom line: Shoppers are feeling the squeeze — but still making room for the holidays.