Research by the European Trade Union Institute using Eurostat data calculated that over 38 million workers aged 18-65 in Europe are unable to afford a holiday. ETUC Deputy General Esther Lunch said "A holiday shouldn’t be a luxury. Holidays are an important part of ensuring the health and wellbeing of workers, but couldn’t seem further away for many people struggling to simply put food on the table and pay the rent amid the cost-of-living crisis." Romania and Greece have the highest share of workers unable to get away even for just one week, 45.7%, and 41.3% respectively. 

The expansion of social tourism programmes (free and subsidized holidays), coupons to cover higher energy and transport prices, wage rises and tax cuts for workers are all needed to reduce holiday poverty.