Hoppy Easter: 11 million Australians plan to celebrate
Easter spending is set to be a hare-raising affair this year, according to new research by Finder.
A Finder survey of 1,059 respondents revealed 3 in 5 (59%) plan to celebrate Easter this year.
That's 11.8 million people taking part in the yearly celebrations.
The research found 13% will travel for the long weekend and plan to spend an average of $471 – that's $1.3 billion toward Easter trips.
More than half (52%) plan to shell out on chocolate to the tune of $651 million.
Nearly a quarter (23%) will be entertaining guests this Easter. Between hosting meals and decorating, Aussies will spend $490 million for their visitors.
Almost 1 in 5 (17%) will instead dine out, spending $403 million.
On the other hand, 2 in 5 (41%) Aussies won't spend anything on the holiday.
Angus Kidman, travel expert at Finder, said Easter will look a little different this year with the cost of living front of mind, but that won't stop Australians from indulging in hot cross buns.
"For many, Easter is a time spent catching up with loved ones, consuming sweet treats and embarking on egg hunts.
"While many will be feeling the financial strain of rising costs, others will be looking forward to some rest and relaxation."
Baby boomers will be splashing the most on travel ($1,125) while gen X will be splurging the most on chocolate ($66).
Millennials will overspend the most on dining out ($123) and gen Z on clothing ($90).
Kidman said there are plenty of ways to celebrate Easter without spending buckets of cash.
"Avoid peak pricing – restaurants and hire car companies will hike up costs over the long weekend.
"Instead of buying expensive Easter decorations, try making your own using materials you already have at home.
"Look for deals and discounts on Easter items and avoid paying full price. Shop at discount stores or dollar stores for affordable Easter baskets, decorations and treats.
"Easter is also a great time to maximise your leave – workers can take 16 days off in a row while only using 8 days of annual leave," Kidman said.
How much do Aussies plan to spend on Easter?
| Category | Percentage of population spending | Average spend |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate | 52% | $62 |
| Travel | 13% | 471 |
| Entertaining (e.g. food for Easter meals, decorations etc.) | 23% | 107 |
| Eating out | 17% | 120 |
| Clothing (e.g. pyjamas) | 10% | 87 |
| Other | 3% | 88 |
| I don't plan to spend any money on Easter | 41% | N/A |
| Source: Finder survey of 1,059 respondents – 625 who plan to celebrate Easter – March 2023. Figures are rounded to the nearest dollar. |
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