Spain summer travel: Rising costs and aging vehicle fleet

Spanish drivers are facing increased economic pressure during the summer vacation season. According to a survey by Coches.net and Milanuncios, 80.6% of Spaniards intend to use private vehicles for travel, with 57.3% expecting to spend more than they did last year due to rising fuel and associated costs.

While 76.7% of travelers plan to stay within Spain, there is a notable increase in those choosing international destinations, rising from 19% in 2025 to 33.2% this year. Beach destinations remain the most popular choice at 67.7%.

Safety concerns are heightened by an aging automotive fleet; the average age of passenger cars in Spain has reached 14.6 years, with over 60% of vehicles being more than a decade old. Experts recommend thorough maintenance before long trips, specifically checking tires, brakes, engine oil, coolant, and battery health to prevent breakdowns and ensure road safety.