Could ‘quickie’ trips be key this summer?

Results of a new Hotwire survey released offers a glimpse inside the collective psyche of the American public as summer wears on amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

In his evaluation of the findings, brain-health expert and New York Times best-selling author, Mike Dow suggested that widespread feelings of isolation and burnout following months of quarantine are prompting Americans to plan much-needed escapes. The majority cited a desire to visit family and friends, who have long been cut off by lockdown measures.

But, Dow argues, trips don’t need to be lengthy in order to effectively boost one’s mental health. “Travel, especially quick, local getaways, are a valuable way to balance our physical health with our mental health and can increase connections in our brain, thereby improving both our current and future mood — so quickie getaways are actually an investment in your long-term well-being,” he said.

Hotwire’s investigation revealed that nearly 90% of Americans are adopting new precautions in the course of their travels this summer, including keeping their trips fairly brief, close to home and driving themselves to their destinations.

Interest in local travel and shorter trips is increasing, as this type of travel seems to fit the parameters of what most Americans perceive as acceptable for avoiding potential viral transmission, leading to the rise of “quickie” trips.

“Quarantine has made us stir crazy, and that’s probably putting it lightly. We’ve heard everyone talk about flattening the COVID curve, but it’s also important to flatten the mental health curve,” said Dow. “It’s understandable to feel a bit nervous, but staying close to home and limiting your trip duration are key to reaping the rewards of travel while staying safe and saving money.”