As the pandemic continues, spirit of spontaneity becomes a vacation trend
It seems that Americans are becoming accustomed to travel’s unpredictability during the pandemic, as many are now embracing this era of uncertainty and exhibiting highly spontaneous behavior when heading off on their getaways.
Since COVID-19 forced travelers to be more flexible in their plans and book their trips relatively last minute, some vacationers
now appear to be taking that trend to the extreme. In fact, a spirit of spontaneity and flexibility is emerging as the new norm.
Pent-up demand and latent frustrations produced by two-plus years of global travel restrictions have led Americans to adopt a more impromptu approach, preferring to make travel arrangements at a moment’s notice.
The evidence comes from a recent survey conducted by travel metasearch engine Skyscanner, which showed that more than half (53%) of American respondents have booked trips to destinations they know nothing about. Still more telling is the discovery that over half of U.S. participants (56%) have gone to the airport with no destination in mind.
According to the study, American jetsetters take pride in their adventurous nature, with more than three-fourths of the survey group (77%) saying they consider themselves to be spontaneous. Fifty-four percent of respondents reported having previously booked a spontaneous trip and almost half (46%) of those said that it felt more exciting.
Among U.S. survey participants, 68% agreed the pandemic hindered their ability to take off on vacation spontaneously.
Skyscanner consulted with psychologist Emma Kenny to examine the psychology behind this new trend.
“One common stress is the decision-making involved in the holiday planning process. This is why forgoing the methodical organization that so often goes hand in hand with a planned holiday and instead choosing to enjoy an impromptu break can be so liberating. Nothing is quite as thrilling as seeing a new place for the first time, and the excitement and instant gratification that comes with that,” Kenny said.