Travelling. Just the idea is enough to put a smile on your face. The travel planning effect. Why does the act of travel planning make us happy? Let’s find out why.
Anticipation
Life can be challenging. In the hard times, we look towards hope. Once the dark, heavy clouds lift, we see light at the end of the tunnel. We all need something to look forward to. Enter travel – stage left.
We find happiness not only while travelling but also while planning and anticipating our trips. Most travel planning starts as inspiration. Inspiration turns into a travel goal. Then we finally excitedly arrive at the airport on travel day with bags packed.
Planning a trip is a positive and happy task, and it boosts our mood. Sometimes we get a bigger boost to our mood before we even leave. That’s the travel planning effect – instant happiness.
The trip itself is a breakaway from our everyday life and commitments. The theme of any trip is – fun, relaxation, rest and no stress. What’s not to like about that?
Happy hormones
Planning a trip releases dopamine, the reward hormone into our brains leading to feelings of happiness. This makes us motivated and engaged.
As humans, we chase this feeling of reward all the time. Travel is a glorious reward to chase. Might be one reason a lot of travellers catch the travel bug and it stays for life. In our minds, we’ve worked hard, and now we deserve a reward.
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Having control
Through the pandemic, we had no control over what was happening. One thing that kept us hopeful was that eventually we might travel again. That and streaming shows about travel, so we had plenty of inspiration on tap!
A planned holiday was our reward for getting through the uncertainty. I don’t know about you, but the feeling of elation when I stepped back on a plane was like coming home.
Having purpose
Planning a trip gives you purpose. It also gives you structure. You have goals to meet – to save for your trip, research where you’re going, decide what you’re going to do and so on. All this keeps you on track.
You’re on a mission to plan the best trip possible. Of course, until you go on your next epic one!
Mental health
Planning travel changes our mindset. We are more positive, calm and get a boost to our mental health when planning travel. Planning lets us mentally escape for a short time. It lifts our spirit while we dream about our getaway and it improves our wellbeing.
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Creativity
Bursts of creativity come when we are the most relaxed. In a relaxed state of mind, our brain is free to explore, daydream, and create. Imagination is at its best in these times and our minds are open to channel this creativity.
Some of my best creative ideas have come while relaxing. Writers will know this feeling. This might explain why so many avid travellers write travel memoirs after returning home.
Learning
Researching destinations, cultures and our travels keeping our brains stimulated, active and curious. We are more open to absorbing information, learning and experiences when travelling.
Memories
As a traveller, when you look back at life, some of the happiest memories will be of your travels. Reports show that a big majority of travellers say travel memories are some of their happiest. Why? Because we are usually carefree, relaxed and not stressed. As long as everything runs perfectly that is. When unexpected things happen, well this is another story altogether!
Whether good or bad, the travel memories last a lifetime.
Social connections
Travel planning usually involves your family and friends. You discuss where you’re travelling to. You are actively building relationship and strengthening bonds through your shared goals and excitement.
Once you are at your destination, the social connections continue. You meet others while travelling, creating new friendships and social connections. You’ll definitely meet other travellers who’ll share your passion.
Suggested post: 5 reason you should be a travel planner
Travel planning effect
So, open up your computer browser, grab your passport and travel journal and start planning. Get that travel planning effect flowing. Because the journey to happiness starts now. Dream big and enjoy the rewards! You deserve it!
So, where are you going next?
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Linda is an Amazon author, writer and travel blogger. Her website The Smart Travelista offers travel resources and tips via her blog, books, videos and more.
