New research reveals that spontaneous travelers report higher happiness and life satisfaction. Nearly half (49%) of self-identified spontaneous vacationers say they feel happy, compared to just one-third of non-spontaneous travelers.
Spontaneous travel means trips decided on a whim—last-minute weekend escapes or visits to unexpected spots. For this survey, spontaneous leisure travelers took at least one such trip lasting two days or more in 2018. The findings highlight its appeal: 83% of respondents are considering a spontaneous getaway in 2019.
Spontaneous travelers exude positivity and confidence
These adventurers are nearly twice as likely to call themselves usually happy and resilient in facing life's curveballs, versus non-spontaneous peers. Plus, 40% more report satisfaction with life and deep connections to family, friends, and the world.
Spontaneous trips fulfill inner drives
Driven by personal needs over outside pulls, top motivators include unwinding and relaxing (46%) and creating special escapes (43%). These outrank external draws like hitting a must-see spot (32%) or joining an event (30%).
Spontaneous travelers chase inspiration
They seek ideas from diverse sources. Under 4% depart without that inner urge for a unique experience, unlike 17% of others. Notably, 26% draw from five or more channels for quirky, offbeat ideas—twice the 13% of non-spontaneous travelers.
