97% of people say that vacation anticipation—simply having a trip planned—makes them happier
If you’re searching for a simple way to boost your mood, science has an answer: plan a vacation. According to a survey by the Institute for Applied Positive Research, 97% of people report that vacation anticipation—just having a trip on the calendar—makes them feel happier. At Classic Journeys, we’ve always believed that travel is transformative, but it turns out the journey to happiness begins the moment you start dreaming about your next adventure.
The Happiness of Looking Forward
Researchers have long been fascinated by what makes us happy. While it’s easy to assume that happiness peaks during a vacation or after returning home, the truth is even more delightful: anticipation itself is a powerful source of joy.
A landmark study from the University of Surrey found that people are at their happiest when they have a vacation planned. Similarly, a 2014 Cornell University study revealed that the anticipation of an experience—like travel—brings more happiness than the anticipation of buying material things. This means that the simple act of planning a trip can lift your spirits and brighten your days, sometimes even more than the trip itself!
What Is “Vacation Anticipation”?
Scientists and psychologists call this phenomenon vacation anticipation or anticipatory happiness. It’s the period before your trip when you’re looking forward to the adventure ahead, and it’s packed with mental and emotional benefits:
Elevated mood: The excitement of imagining new places and experiences releases dopamine, the “anticipation molecule,” which boosts feelings of pleasure and motivation.
Reduced stress: Planning a trip provides a sense of control and positivity, especially during uncertain times.
Stronger social bonds: Sharing your plans with friends and family can strengthen relationships and spread the joy.
Improved energy and sleep: Studies show that people with a trip on the horizon feel more energetic and even sleep better. In other words, the journey to happiness really does begin the moment you start dreaming.
The Science Behind the Smile
Why does anticipation make us so happy? Neuroscience offers some answers. When we look forward to a positive event, the brain’s reward centers—especially the medial prefrontal cortex—light up. This is the same area activated by pleasurable experiences. In effect, our brains let us “pre-experience” the joy of travel, weeks or even months before we depart. Psychologists also point to the goal theory of well-being: having something to look forward to gives us purpose, motivation, and a sense of progress. Even during busy or stressful times, planning a trip can offer a welcome escape and a reminder that good things are coming.
How to Maximize Your Vacation Anticipation
Want to make the most of this happiness boost? Here are a few tips from travel experts and psychologists:
Plan ahead: The longer the anticipation period, the greater the happiness benefits. Even if your trip is months away, start planning now!
Savor the details: Read about your destination, browse photos, and imagine the experiences you’ll have. The more vivid your daydreams, the more joy you’ll feel.
Share the excitement: Talk about your plans with friends and family. Not only does this strengthen bonds, but it also multiplies the happiness.
Keep a trip on the horizon: Consider always having a future journey in the works, even if it’s just a weekend getaway. The anticipation will keep your spirits high year-round.
It’s Not Just About the Destination
One of the most encouraging findings from research is that the happiness boost from planning a trip isn’t limited to exotic or far-flung destinations. Whether you’re dreaming of a Classic Journeys walking tour in Italy, a cultural immersion in Cuba, or an exploration of one of our national treasures like Glacier National Park closer to home, the act of planning and anticipating is what matters most.
The Classic Journeys Approach
At Classic Journeys, we believe that travel is a journey of the soul, and that every step—from the first spark of inspiration to the final farewell—should be savored. Our team is here to help you plan every detail, so you can enjoy the anticipation as much as the adventure itself.
So, what are you waiting for? Start dreaming, start planning, and let the happiness begin—today.
Sources:
University of Surrey, “Holiday Anticipation and Happiness”
Cornell University, “Waiting for Merlot: Anticipatory Consumption of Experiential and Material Purchases”
Institute for Applied Positive Research, “The Power of Travel Anticipation”
Various psychological and neuroscience studies on anticipatory happiness
Experience the joy of vacation anticipation
