Portugal leads Europe in desire to disconnect from screens during holidays

A study conducted by Appinio for the European marketplace refurbed reveals that Portuguese citizens lead Europe in the desire to disconnect from digital devices during summer holidays. According to the research, 83% of Portuguese respondents are willing to spend an entire day without screens, and 71% intend to reduce their overall device usage during the vacation period.

The study, which surveyed eight European markets including Sweden, Austria, Italy, Czechia, Finland, the Netherlands, and Ireland, shows a growing awareness of how intensive technology use affects well-being. While Portugal leads in openness to a full day of disconnection, Italy shows the highest intention to reduce general screen time, with 73% of respondents expressing this goal.

Findings suggest that setting specific, time-limited goals, such as a single day without technology, is more effective and widely accepted than vague, long-term intentions to reduce usage. Despite the high interest in disconnecting, 18% of those surveyed expressed uncertainty about their ability to successfully reduce screen time in practice.