Plan the Perfect Trip…Based on Science! Lauren Saccone October 30, 2017 Travel Tips This post was last updated on September 1, 2023. Everybody wants to get the most out of their vacation. With all the time, effort, and energy you put into squeezing out some leave time, looking for cheap round trip flights, and researching your destination, you want to make the most out of every moment. After all, how many vacations per year do you really get? Unfortunately, our best efforts can sometimes be lacking. Who knows how to plan the perfect trip that’s ideal for maximum relaxation? If you’re struggling to set up the vacation of your dreams, science might hold the answer. We’ve rounded up some of the most useful tips out there to help you create the scientifically approved trip of your dreams. Get ready for maximum relaxation, with minimum effort. Book Early Last-minute panic is a terrible way to start off your vacation. Nobody wants to be frantically trying to book one-way flights, round-trip flights, or hotel reservations as the clock ticks down. Do your planning and scheduling as early as possible to avoid the stress and aggravation of sold-out hotels and booked airlines. Studies have shown that long periods of anticipation can actually make your trip better. This way, when the time rolls around all you’ll have to do is check in and get ready to chill out. Head to the Shore If you’ve been feeling blue and looking for the perfect mood-boosting vacation, make sure to get some quality time in at an ocean or lake. It’s been scientifically proven that being near water improves the mood, reduces stress, and overall leaves you feeling better and more relaxed. Whether you love lakes or crave the calming waves of the ocean, surrounding yourself with blue water is the scientific way to ensure a truly beneficial vacation. Take Enough Time Off Although sometimes you probably feel like you’d enjoy being on vacation forever, all good things must pass. Believe it or not, there’s a scientific formula for figuring out exactly how long your trip should be for optimal relaxation and enjoyment. Research shows that the perfect length of time to truly unwind and reap the benefits of a vacation is 7 to 10 days. If you’re traveling through a variety of time zones, you’ll need a day per time change to recover. Keep all that in mind when planning, so you don’t waste precious time that could be otherwise used to unwind. You Might Also Enjoy: 7 Tips for Eking Out a Bit of Fun When You Travel for Business! Get Physical! Don’t get us wrong; we love lounging on the beach or chilling by the pool as much as the next person. But for a truly perfect trip, you should make an effort to move around and do some exploring. According to studies, traveling can provide a significant boost your health and mood. The secret is to combine relaxation and going out in the perfect quantities. Traveling can up your exercise, whether that’s by walking around sightseeing, swimming, or skiing. That all has positive benefits for your mood and your physical health. So by all means, snooze in the sun for a few hours; then get ready to have some serious fun. Save the Best for Last It’s been proven time and again that people are happiest when they spend money on experiences instead of things. Further research has proven that the best time for fun activities on your vacation is towards the end of your trip. It will conclude your adventures on a high note, and ensure you’re more likely to remember an amazing experience. So if you’re planning something special — from a fancy local dinner to sky-diving — try to schedule it for your last few days on vacation. You’ll return home refreshed, rejuvenated, and with memories that will last a lifetime. Hey, you can’t argue with science! Now that you know how to make the most of your next adventure, all you have to do is look for cheap round-trip flights, pack your bags, and be on your way! FAQs: Q: How do I choose the best destination for my personality type? A: Consider taking the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) test to gain insights into your travel preferences and choose a destination that aligns with your personality. Q: What’s the secret to preventing jet lag? A: Strategically expose yourself to natural light at specific times upon arrival to reset your internal clock and minimize jet lag’s impact. Q: Are group activities beneficial during travel? A: Yes, engaging in group activities fosters connections and provides learning opportunities. Participate in guided tours or group experiences for a more enriching trip. Q: How can I optimize my sleep environment while traveling? A: Choose accommodations with comfortable bedding, blackout curtains, and minimal noise to create an ideal sleep environment. Q: Does being in nature really improve sleep quality? A: Yes, research shows that exposure to natural environments reduces stress and enhances sleep quality. Opt for accommodations near green spaces. Q: How can mindfulness help reduce travel-related stress? A: Practicing mindfulness techniques like meditation and deep breathing in serene locations can alleviate stress and enhance your overall travel experience. Do you have any travel science you’d like to share with our readers? Tell us about it in the comments below!
