Well-being

The reason why planning a trip helps take care of our mental health, according to a study

These are the seven types of benefits that travel planning provides to the human mind. Let’s dive in and take a look at them.

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Marta Tejedor Andy Hall

Update: Jan 25th, 2026 12:53 EST

The anticipation of a getaway—the thought of unplugging for a few days and breaking out of the work routine—can be surprisingly powerful for our mental health. When we start planning a trip, the brain triggers what researchers call the “anticipation effect,” which can actually be more beneficial than the trip itself.

Travel gives us something to look forward to

A 2022 study found that simply marking a travel date on the calendar gives us a boost in well‑being that can last for weeks. Another analysis showed that having positive expectations about an upcoming trip activates the brain’s reward circuits, releasing neurotransmitters linked to pleasure and emotional balance. In other words, the days leading up to a vacation can meaningfully improve mental health.

Planning a trip isn’t just a logistical task—it’s a form of self‑care. Science shows that the act of preparing for a getaway is one of the most powerful psychological states for generating excitement, optimism, and happiness.

A better mood

When we imagine a few days of peace and enjoyment, the brain releases dopamine, creating feelings of pleasure and motivation. Visualizing a pleasant future lifts overall mood, gives us a sense of purpose, energizes us to get through the days before the trip, and softens the grind of daily routines.

Less stress

Researching a destination gives the brain a brief escape from everyday pressures. According to the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), these small mental breaks act like emotional release valves, helping us switch between daily responsibilities and moments of mental rest.

Cognitive stimulation

Trip planning requires coordinating dates, places, and activities. These mental exercises pull us out of autopilot and activate brain regions tied to creativity, memory, and cognitive flexibility. The result is a burst of mental stimulation that sparks curiosity and strengthens our ability to adapt.

Emotional regulation

Not every plan goes perfectly—and that’s part of the process. Preparing a trip also means managing expectations. These moments help the brain develop emotional‑regulation skills like tolerating uncertainty, making decisions, and identifying what truly matters.

Social connection

Planning a trip with others encourages communication, cooperation, and compromise. Different preferences inevitably surface, but working through them builds closeness and strengthens the sense of belonging within a group.

Mental stability

Imagining a “positive future” keeps the brain from getting stuck in the monotony of daily life. Looking forward to enjoyable experiences provides emotional support, reduces the feeling of burnout, and makes everyday tasks easier to handle.

Self‑discovery

Trip planning naturally raises questions about what we want to do, see, and—most importantly—what we need. Reflecting on these choices fuels self‑knowledge and helps us reconnect with our own identity.