Travel Debt Could Add Thousands to European Trip Costs
Most travelers are willing to carry high-interest credit card balances to fund their once-in-a-lifetime trips.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Credit Cards
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Is it worth carrying credit card debt to afford a once-in-a-lifetime vacation?
A September 2026 survey found that 77% of U.S. travelers are willing to carry credit card debt to fund a once-in-a-lifetime European trip. This financial choice persists even as average credit card interest rates hover near 22.15%.
Why it matters
Prioritizing travel experiences over debt avoidance can create long-term financial strain, especially when financing costs remain high. Travelers face a significant interest burden if they choose to pay for expensive trips over time rather than saving in advance.
While 77% of travelers would carry debt for a European trip, 25% are comfortable carrying $3,000 or more in credit card balances. These borrowers face an average APR of 22.15% based on Federal Reserve data from the second quarter of 2026.
The players
JayWay Travel
A travel service provider that commissioned the September 2026 survey of 1,000 U.S. adults.
Federal Reserve
The central bank of the United States that tracks national credit card interest rate benchmarks.
The details
Carrying a $3,000 balance at a 22.15% APR significantly inflates the total cost of a trip due to compounding interest. Travelers aiming to minimize this expense often cut back on daily costs like dining out or opt for off-peak season travel. By choosing to carry debt rather than shortening trip duration, households may effectively pay a substantial premium on every dollar borrowed.
Timeline
The survey was conducted in September 2026.
The average credit card interest rate was 22.15% during Q2 2026.
Money Landscape
Consumer sentiment toward financing leisure travel remains resilient despite the high-interest-rate environment established in recent quarters. This reflects a trend where households increasingly prioritize specific, milestone life experiences over traditional debt-reduction strategies.
If you plan to fund travel, compare the cost of carrying a 22.15% APR balance against saving six months in advance. Consult with a financial professional to evaluate how taking on high-interest debt fits into your overall monthly budget and long-term financial security.
The takeaway
The desire for once-in-a-lifetime trips often overrides concerns about the high cost of borrowing, potentially costing households thousands in interest. Consider tracking your travel savings goals at least six months before departure to avoid using high-interest credit card debt.
Further reading
For tips on managing high-interest balances, visit our guide on Credit Cards.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Baxter Bulletin.
Live Poll
Is it worth carrying credit card debt to afford a once-in-a-lifetime vacation?
