Spanish families spent nearly 2.8 billion euros last year on after-school activities, while most still drive older petrol or diesel cars. Experts say how you drive matters more than what you drive when it comes to saving on fuel.
Last year, Spanish families spent almost 2.8 billion euros on after-school activities. This surge in spending has many parents questioning not only whether these activities are necessary, but also when they truly benefit their children, according to experts cited by Google/SpainAuto.
After-school programs in Spain are getting more expensive. On average, families now pay between 70 and 113 euros per month, depending on the school, which adds up to 630 to 1,017 euros over a typical nine-month school year. Sector reports show this is about a 4% increase from the previous year, putting more pressure on household budgets.
Average back-to-school expenses in Spain reached record highs in 2026, with families spending between 429 and 505 euros per child just on basic supplies.
While parents debate the value of extra lessons and sports, another cost quietly shapes daily life: most Spaniards drive cars that are neither new nor electric. The used car market in Spain is much larger than the new car market, and the most popular vehicles are about ten years old, running on petrol or diesel. This trend continues even as fuel prices rise and more hybrids appear in showrooms.
For those buying new cars, non-plug-in hybrids are now the top choice. Still, most drivers are behind the wheel of older, combustion-engine cars, which affects both family budgets and the environment. Data from ANFAC and Faconauto shows the average age of passenger cars in Spain reached 14.6 years in 2025, with some regions seeing even older vehicles. This pattern isn't unique to Spain; as reported earlier, hybrids are gaining ground but haven't overtaken traditional engines.
With fuel prices staying high, many drivers are looking for ways to save. According to an instructor from the Centro de Conducción Eficiente del RACC, the biggest savings come not from the car itself, but from how it's driven. Smoother acceleration, steady speeds, and anticipating traffic can all help reduce fuel use, even in older cars. A representative from the Advanced Driving Center of RACC recently said that following eco-driving tips can save drivers between 400 and 500 euros a year.
Industry publications report that as of September 2026, the average age of used cars sold in Spain is about 11 years, and in private transactions, this figure rises to 15 years. This trend underscores the prevalence of older vehicles on Spanish roads and the associated risks for safety and maintenance costs.
These numbers show the squeeze on Spanish families: rising costs for children's activities on one side, and the ongoing expense of keeping older cars running on the other. Data from Google/SpainAuto suggests that while new technology is spreading, most households are still guided by practical concerns and long-standing habits. For now, the best way to save money isn't buying a new car or signing up for more activities, but making smarter choices with what families already have.
