People who travel have better health and are more productive at work than those who do not, a survey suggests.
The poll by AARP Travel, an over-50s non-profit organisation, found overall wellbeing is one of the biggest advantages of travel, with the benefits starting during the initial travel planning phase and extending well beyond the trip.
Four in five baby boomers said they experience at least one health benefit during a trip and 73% notice at least one health benefit post-trip.
“This research shows there are many health and wellness benefits during all stages of travel across generations, and seeing those benefits significantly improves their satisfaction with the trip,” said Alison Bryant, AARP research senior vice president. “Any type of travel, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a weeklong trip, can be an effective way to renew and recharge and the benefits far outweigh the short-lived drawbacks.”
One in five (21%) baby boomers said they experience health benefits before, during and after the trip equally.
Of the 73% of boomers who notice health benefits post-trip, the most unexpected benefits are better sleep (51%), more energy (50%) and increased productivity (46%).
The health benefits that most improve during a trip include improved emotional wellbeing (54%), connection with loved ones (52%), amount of energy (35%), intellectual curiosity (34%) and mental clarity (30%).