travelling why is it important

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• THE BIG IDEA

Why travel should be considered an essential human activity

Travel is not rational, but it’s in our genes. Here’s why you should start planning a trip now.

In 1961, legendary National Geographic photographer Volkmar Wentzel captured two women gazing at the surf off Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia. This and all the other images in this story come from the National Geographic image collection.

I’ve been putting my passport to good use lately. I use it as a coaster and to level wobbly table legs. It makes an excellent cat toy.

Welcome to the pandemic of disappointments. Canceled trips, or ones never planned lest they be canceled. Family reunions, study-abroad years, lazy beach vacations. Poof. Gone. Obliterated by a tiny virus, and the long list of countries where United States passports are not welcome.

Only a third of Americans say they have traveled overnight for leisure since March, and only slightly more, 38 percent, say they are likely to do so by the end of the year, according to one report. Only a quarter of us plan on leaving home for Thanksgiving, typically the busiest travel time. The numbers paint a grim picture of our stilled lives.

It is not natural for us to be this sedentary. Travel is in our genes. For most of the time our species has existed, “we’ve lived as nomadic hunter-gatherers moving about in small bands of 150 or fewer people,” writes Christopher Ryan in Civilized to Death . This nomadic life was no accident. It was useful. “Moving to a neighboring band is always an option to avoid brewing conflict or just for a change in social scenery,” says Ryan. Robert Louis Stevenson put it more succinctly: “The great affair is to move.”

What if we can’t move, though? What if we’re unable to hunt or gather? What’s a traveler to do? There are many ways to answer that question. “Despair,” though, is not one of them.

In this aerial view from 1967, wall-to-wall seaside sunbathers relax under umbrellas or on beach towels in Ocean City, Maryland .

A 1967 fall festival in Guadalajara, Mexico , starred traditionally costumed musicians and dancers.

We are an adaptive species. We can tolerate brief periods of forced sedentariness. A dash of self-delusion helps. We’re not grounded, we tell ourselves. We’re merely between trips, like the unemployed salesman in between opportunities. We pass the days thumbing though old travel journals and Instagram feeds. We gaze at souvenirs. All this helps. For a while.

We put on brave faces. “Staycation Nation,” the cover of the current issue of Canadian Traveller magazine declares cheerfully, as if it were a choice, not a consolation.

Today, the U.S. Travel Association, the industry trade organization, is launching a national recovery campaign called “ Let’s Go There .” Backed by a coalition of businesses related to tourism—hotels, convention and visitor bureaus, airlines—the initiative’s goal is to encourage Americans to turn idle wanderlust into actual itineraries.

The travel industry is hurting. So are travelers. “I dwelled so much on my disappointment that it almost physically hurt,” Paris -based journalist Joelle Diderich told me recently, after canceling five trips last spring.

(Related: How hard has the coronavirus hit the travel industry? These charts tell us.)

My friend James Hopkins is a Buddhist living in Kathmandu . You’d think he’d thrive during the lockdown, a sort-of mandatory meditation retreat. For a while he did.

But during a recent Skype call, James looked haggard and dejected. He was growing restless, he confessed, and longed “for the old 10-countries-a-year schedule.” Nothing seemed to help, he told me. “No matter how many candles I lit, or how much incense I burned, and in spite of living in one of the most sacred places in South Asia, I just couldn’t change my habits.”

When we ended our call, I felt relieved, my grumpiness validated. It’s not me; it’s the pandemic. But I also worried. If a Buddhist in Kathmandu is going nuts, what hope do the rest of us stilled souls have?

I think hope lies in the very nature of travel. Travel entails wishful thinking. It demands a leap of faith, and of imagination, to board a plane for some faraway land, hoping, wishing, for a taste of the ineffable. Travel is one of the few activities we engage in not knowing the outcome and reveling in that uncertainty. Nothing is more forgettable than the trip that goes exactly as planned.

Related: Vintage photos of the glamour of travel

Travel is not a rational activity. It makes no sense to squeeze yourself into an alleged seat only to be hurled at frightening speed to a distant place where you don’t speak the language or know the customs. All at great expense. If we stopped to do the cost-benefit analysis, we’d never go anywhere. Yet we do.

That’s one reason why I’m bullish on travel’s future. In fact, I’d argue travel is an essential industry, an essential activity. It’s not essential the way hospitals and grocery stores are essential. Travel is essential the way books and hugs are essential. Food for the soul. Right now, we’re between courses, savoring where we’ve been, anticipating where we’ll go. Maybe it’s Zanzibar and maybe it’s the campground down the road that you’ve always wanted to visit.

(Related: Going camping this fall? Here’s how to get started.)

James Oglethorpe, a seasoned traveler, is happy to sit still for a while, and gaze at “the slow change of light and clouds on the Blue Ridge Mountains” in Virginia, where he lives. “My mind can take me the rest of the way around this world and beyond it.”

It’s not the place that is special but what we bring to it and, crucially, how we interact with it. Travel is not about the destination, or the journey. It is about stumbling across “a new way of looking at things,” as writer Henry Miller observed. We need not travel far to gain a fresh perspective.

No one knew this better than Henry David Thoreau , who lived nearly all of his too-short life in Concord, Massachusetts. There he observed Walden Pond from every conceivable vantage point: from a hilltop, on its shores, underwater. Sometimes he’d even bend over and peer through his legs, marveling at the inverted world. “From the right point of view, every storm and every drop in it is a rainbow,” he wrote.

Thoreau never tired of gazing at his beloved pond, nor have we outgrown the quiet beauty of our frumpy, analog world. If anything, the pandemic has rekindled our affection for it. We’ve seen what an atomized, digital existence looks like, and we (most of us anyway) don’t care for it. The bleachers at Chicago ’s Wrigley Field; the orchestra section at New York City ’s Lincoln Center; the alleyways of Tokyo . We miss these places. We are creatures of place, and always will be.

After the attacks of September 11, many predicted the end of air travel, or at least a dramatic reduction. Yet the airlines rebounded steadily and by 2017 flew a record four billion passengers. Briefly deprived of the miracle of flight, we appreciated it more and today tolerate the inconvenience of body scans and pat-downs for the privilege of transporting our flesh-and-bone selves to far-flung locations, where we break bread with other incarnate beings.

Landscape architects work in their Rio de Janeiro, Brazil , studio in 1955.

A tourist photographs a towering century plant in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, in 1956.

In our rush to return to the world, we should be mindful of the impact of mass tourism on the planet. Now is the time to embrace the fundamental values of sustainable tourism and let them guide your future journeys. Go off the beaten path. Linger longer in destinations. Travel in the off-season. Connect with communities and spend your money in ways that support locals. Consider purchasing carbon offsets. And remember that the whole point of getting out there is to embrace the differences that make the world so colorful.

“One of the great benefits of travel is meeting new people and coming into contact with different points of view,” says Pauline Frommer, travel expert and radio host.

So go ahead and plan that trip. It’s good for you, scientists say . Plotting a trip is nearly as enjoyable as actually taking one. Merely thinking about a pleasurable experience is itself pleasurable. Anticipation is its own reward.

I’ve witnessed first-hand the frisson of anticipatory travel. My wife, not usually a fan of travel photography, now spends hours on Instagram, gazing longingly at photos of Alpine lodges and Balinese rice fields. “What’s going on?” I asked one day. “They’re just absolutely captivating,” she replied. “They make me remember that there is a big, beautiful world out there.”

Many of us, myself included, have taken travel for granted. We grew lazy and entitled, and that is never good. Tom Swick, a friend and travel writer, tells me he used to view travel as a given. Now, he says, “I look forward to experiencing it as a gift.”

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TOP 9 Reasons Why Travelling is Actually Important

Ever thought about the impact of travel on your well-being? Well, believe it or not, health improvement doesn’t always mean sweating it out. Sometimes, it’s as simple as packing your luggage and get going! Travelling is one of the best things you can do for your health, and we have the evidence to prove it.

And not only that, it also brings about other physical benefits. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s accompany us and make yourself physically and mentally fit through the magic of travel!

Table of Contents

Why Travelling is Important?

Traveling helps in reducing stress, fighting sadness, lowering the risk of getting sick, making us happier, and sparking creativity. In addition, it’s a fantastic way to learn new cultures, make friends, taste different foods, and open up lots of exciting possibilities .

Health Benefits of Traveling

Traveling isn’t just about having fun; it also has positive effects on your health. This isn’t just our opinion, it’s scientifically proven. To highlight the significance of travel, we encourage you to explore the reasons mentioned below to enhance your well-being.

Reduces Anxiety

Feeling overwhelmed? The straightforward remedy is to go on a journey to your beloved destination. In today’s fast-paced life, finding time for socializing becomes challenging. If you’re among those facing this issue, you likely experience stress at day’s end. Particularly, office-goers may find it difficult to plan trips. 

According to the MDPI Study, individuals report improved rest, reduced anxiety, and better moods three days after a vacation. Remarkably, these positive effects often persist for weeks beyond the trip’s conclusion.

Increases Satisfaction and Happiness

It is common to experience relief and a sense of satisfaction when you decide to take a break from work for a vacation. As supported by research at Cornell University , the happiness of a person can increase simply by planning a trip. Also, the survey showed that people are more excited about their vacations than buying new things. This means that the perks of going on a trip begin even before the vacation itself starts.

Lowers Chances of Diseases

As per a study by the Global Commission on Aging and Transamerica Center, and the U.S. Travel Association , traveling helps in keeping people healthy. The research indicates that women who travel twice a year have a reduced risk of heart attacks compared to those who don’t travel frequently (maybe six years ago). This holds true for men as well. Men who skip annual vacations show a 30% higher risk of heart disease and a 20% greater risk of death.

Boosts Creativity

Travel makes your mind more creative when you discover new things. Wondering how? Let us break it down. First, it boosts cognitive flexibility, which allows you to easily switch between ideas and think outside the box. Second, it inspires diverse and original ideas by exposing you to different ways of doing things and solving problems. Lastly, it helps you adapt to new situations and challenges to boost your self-esteem and self-efficacy.

Even Professor Adam Galinsky at Columbia Business School confirmed that exploring different places enhances both the depth and integrativeness of thinking and cognitive flexibility. It also possesses the capability to forge profound connections between unrelated forms.

Overcome Depression

You might have heard that millions of Americans are struggling with depression. It’s common for doctors to prescribe medication or therapies. However, these solutions might not always be the healthiest.

In such cases, we recommend planning a trip or traveling. Our recommendation is backed by a report from PubMed . This report found that women who vacation at least twice a year are less likely to suffer from chronic stress and depression.

Other Benefits of Traveling

As mentioned earlier, traveling isn’t only beneficial for your health but also provides a multitude of advantages. Some of the most prevalent and significant ones are outlined below:

Understanding New Lifestyles

When you go to new places, you meet people with different cultures and lifestyles. As you are living among these people, understanding and gaining insights into their way of life becomes a key part of making the most of your trip. In this learning process, you will discover new and different things.

For instance, in Japan, you might learn that it’s considered impolite to wear shoes inside (room), even if it’s usual for you. Sometimes, learning new things outside your comfort zone can be quite an adventure. We must say, it leaves a fantastic and lasting impact on your life.

Read: How to Secure a Hotel Room Door with a Towel?

Help in Socializing

If you enjoy meeting new people like I do, traveling is the way to go. When you explore a new place, you likely attend parties, go to clubs, enjoy amusement parks, and visit your planned destinations. In these locations, you encounter new individuals and establish unique connections with them.

Sometimes, unforeseen situations lead to new friendships. On my recent journey, I misplaced my wallet and needed assistance getting back to my hotel. During that moment, a lovely lady named Amelia offered her help, and we became friends. Surprisingly, we’re still connected on Facebook.

Editor’s Pick: Traveling With Kids: How to Make it Stress-free?

Give New Opportunities

A clear mind brings brightness to your life. However, if you stick to the same routine for many years without traveling, you might struggle to generate new ideas or gain a fresh perspective on the world. Traveling can uncover your life’s purpose by exposing you to new possibilities and opportunities.

It will lead you to discover a new passion, career, or direction that resonates with your values and goals. Additionally, it can inspire you to contribute positively to the world by connecting you to something greater than yourself.

Various Cuisine Options

When you travel, you get to taste a variety of foods from different parts of the world. You get to expose fresh tastes, ingredients, methods, and meals that might not be familiar in your homeland. During my recent trip to Iceland , I took a street tour, savoring a variety of freshly prepared dishes, snacks, and beverages from vendors.

The next day, I tried different local dishes and beverages crafted with regional ingredients and methods. Trying different food options on your next journey will undoubtedly be worthwhile.

Traveling is crucial for multiple reasons. It not only provides gratifying explorations but also offers health benefits by reducing anxiety, lowering the risk of diseases, and boosting satisfaction and happiness. Further, It enhances creativity, overcomes depression, provides socializing and learning opportunities about new lifestyles, and opens the chance to get involved in diverse cuisines. In other words, you can say that travel is like an informal school where every journey becomes a lesson, and every destination offers valuable insights.

Why Travelling is Important - FAQs

Going to new places is fun and helps you create awesome memories to share with your friends and family.

Traveling offers a change of scenery and routine, which can help reduce stress and anxiety. It allows you to disconnect from daily pressures, relax, and experience new environments, all of which contribute to a sense of well-being.

Travel exposes you to different perspectives and experiences, which can lead to personal growth and self-discovery. It sparks new passions or career interests, and it can connect you to something greater than yourself, inspiring you to contribute positively to the world.

• Managing Editor |

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17 Reasons Why Travel Is Important (Just Go, Already!)

What are the reasons why travel is important to so many people? 

Why do people travel?

What’s your “why” when it comes to exploring the world? 

Let’s dig into all of that and more in this post on the importance of travel.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, including links through the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program . As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I won’t recommend something I have not used/would not use myself, and any income earned supports the upkeep of this site.

Why is traveling beneficial?

Traveling is beneficial because it fosters a shared sense of exploration in people. For others, it’s about a sense of wonder in the way others live outside of their bubble.

Traveling allows for personal growth and cultural exposure. It can spark creativity if you’re feeling uninspired. There are so many reasons why exploring the world around you is so meaningful.

How does travel change you?

Travel doesn’t change you unless you let it. It won’t make you cooler or kinder. It won’t make you more well-liked in society and your circle of friends.

If you let it change you, it could broaden your perspectives. It could foster new levels of empathy for different cultures or give you an extra dose of self-confidence. It could certainly help you prioritize what’s important to you.

Reasons Why Travel Is Important 

Despite the sacrifice of your time and your resources , travel remains an intense desire for so many. As far as my own reasons for a constant desire to travel, I seem to be just wired that way. I’m not sure I have just one reason for why I travel .

While I try to work that out, let’s explore popular reasons why travel is important for others.

1. Travel brings you closer to your travel partner.

I don’t think you really know someone until you’ve traveled with them , and that goes for both romantic and platonic relationships.

There are all kinds of things that can go wrong when you’re traveling, so it could be a test of whether this friend or romantic interest are  good travel buddies .

There are also all kinds of things that can go wrong on a trip, e.g. flight cancelations, delayed luggage, a pandemic.

Hiccups in travel bring people together in a way that few other experiences can. You may even realize that you’re better off spending time with this individual more locally, and that’s OK, too.

2. Travel exposes you to new cultures, new foods, and new outlooks.

Travel brings you out of your comfort zone, and exposes you to new places, new faces, and new outlooks on life.

You can lead quite a sheltered existence if you never explore outside the places you’re comfortable with.

Some places are more conservative than yours. Others are more open-minded. Some may seem strange to you, but remember that your own customs may seem strange to others. 

Those others that you consider different people may become new friends, so you better watch yourself.

You may interact with foods you’ve never seen before.

That doesn’t make these places weird. Different is good, and experiencing different cultures is good. Ideally, travel expands world views rather than reinforces short-sightedness when it comes to where your own country fits in the world.

You can love where you’re from and still appreciate where others come from, too.

It’s one of the biggest benefits of world travel.

We could all use a little bit of that once in a while.

3. Traveling helps you relax and escape the daily grind.

The way vacation is treated in the United States is baffling.

It’s something so many workers feel guilty about taking, and even when they’re on that holiday, they feel the need to check in to make sure their employers haven’t forgotten about them back home.

I’m not a lay-around-on-the-beach kind of traveler, but if that’s your deal, get after it.

Here’s one for the travel tips log: Check the email once in the morning if you have to, ideally with an umbrella drink in hand, but then shut that laptop down and get some of that vitamin D you paid for. 

4. You’re on a mission to find yourself, ala  Eat, Pray, Love .

You’ve overcome a big hurdle in life or survived something harrowing.

Maybe it’s a mid-life crisis.

Travel is often on the list for people who all of a sudden subscribe to the YOLO of it all. I can get on board with that.

Note: Travel is healthier than housing tubes of Pringles on the daily, or buying a new sports car, or getting an obvious set of hair plugs.

I’m not entirely religious, but despite how cheesy that whole movement was, a little eating, praying, and loving doesn’t seem harmful to the fabric of the universe.

Have at it.

5. You’re an adrenaline junkie.

I’ve had my fair share of adventure-type moments as part of my travels.

Chasing an adrenaline high is not what drives me on most vacations, though, unless we’re talking about the feelings that come over me when I know a cheese plate is coming my way.

Some people, though, plan their vacations around these heart-pumping activities , and that’s cool.

Risk-takers, just please pay attention to posted signage, liability waivers, etc.

We need your kind in the world, so navigate all of those adventures as safely — and as legally — as possible.

6. You just got dumped or just dumped someone.

A relationship ending can be traumatic and send people on a personal journey. Travel then becomes a way for people to heal, whether you were the one who left or the one left behind.

Finding new love in a new place isn’t weird.

It’s exciting.

I don’t mean shagging the first hot foreigner you encounter. I’m talking about putting yourself back together by experiencing a new place wholeheartedly and coming out of it loving yourself in the process.

I’m not crying. You’re crying.

7. Travel can be challenging, and that’s a good thing.

Traveling can teach you so much about yourself.

There are many people out there who are uncomfortable with change or leaving the comfort of their bubble.

There are many others who do so anyway, despite that discomfort.

Travel doesn’t come naturally to everyone, and can even be challenging for some. Testing yourself and your own limitations can also be so rewarding.

If you’re on the fence, I dare you to try it.

Just maybe ease into it first by going somewhere where the locals speak your language, for example, rather than assuming you can tackle transformative travel and new languages in one go.

Easing into travel may make you feel like you can handle something a bit more adventurous the  next  round, too.

8. You’re celebrating a big milestone.

I love it when people who love traveling celebrate someone or something big happening in their lives with a trip somewhere.

Whether it’s a landmark birthday, a company-wide celebration, or even a babymoon, travel is a great way to remind you and everyone along for the ride how lucky you are to be able to do these things in the first place.

Despite some people’s negative opinions, I’m all about a destination wedding, too.

Extend that thing so it’s not only about the special day of your nearest and dearest, and make a trip out of it. It’s an excuse to break out of your rut and go somewhere.

9. You have a bucket list, and travel is a big part of it.

I take offense when people say that bucket lists are lame and that you should live in the moment, yada yada.

I’m already planning the next thing while I’m still on the first. 

Still, I’ve moved away from ticking off countries like they’re on some grand to-do list, as long as I keep traveling the world.

Thinking about how big the world is is overwhelming and my bucket list grows by the day as a result.

If you want to keep a list of dream spots that feel important to you, do so. Maybe it’ll keep you accountable to go out and do those things!

10. You’re making memories.

I’m not talking about the importance of  doing things for Instagram  here.

I’m talking about the kinds of memories that are just for you or for you to share with a loved one.

It’s about that photo album you look through well after a bucket list trip , reminiscing about the time you snowmobiled across that glacier or went cliff diving for the first time.

Fun fact: I’ve never done the second thing as my legs turn to jelly whenever I’m faced with jumping off a cliff, but you likely get what I mean.

It’s also about making some memories that won’t even translate to a photograph.

They’re THAT good.

They’re the stories you tell, over and over and  over . 

Travel ups the ante on your life experiences tremendously. It impacts how you move through the world, and how you take advantage of the time you have.

11. There’s a mind-body connection.

Apart from the obvious benefits your body will feel from the effects of a multi-day hiking trip or the 20,000 steps you’re tackling daily on that European cobblestone , travel feels good.

Even when you come back home exhausted or dreading another day at the office, travel has restorative powers.

It reminds you that there’s more to life than that office and that it’s worth a few days of jet lag for the pleasure of experiencing a new place . 

It feels good to travel, but it also feels good to have something to look forward to when you’re not actively traveling. 

It’s one of the myriad reasons why travel is good for you.

12. Traveling keeps your priorities in order.

Travel is certainly a privilege, but it isn’t impossible when you keep things in perspective . It can be as simple as driving across town to hike up to that viewpoint you’ve been meaning to check out.

Prioritizing travel can mean making time for those kinds of experiences, rather than just making room in the budget for it.

Note: Now, if you want to do something big, you certainly need to make some sacrifices. Not everyone can do that, no matter what your fave budget traveler tells you. Start small, and do what you can to experience the world . It’s a big one.

Exploring your immediate surroundings is free. Learn new ways to experience where you are.

When you travel, it also helps you prioritize what’s important in your own life.

You’re able to look beyond yourself and see the great beyond. 

I’m not talking about the afterlife here, but what’s just beyond your comfort zone. You can learn quite a bit about yourself when you prioritize travel, and when you prioritize experiencing new things.

13. Traveling is fun.

This one is simple.

I love to travel the world because it’s a good time.

When done right, travel is SO much fun. By right I don’t mean anything other than what’s right for you, by the way, as I don’t believe there’s a right or wrong way to travel, generally.

You get to experience things you likely wouldn’t back at home, potentially meeting new people in a local culture that will fulfill you in ways you didn’t expect. It’s good for my mental health.

Those who fly by the seat of their pants may even enjoy the uncertainty of it all, setting the planning aside and going about their days abroad like some pirate explorer.

That’s not me, but you do you. 

Learn about what puts that smile on your face and go do it abroad in a new place .

Now we’re rhyming.

The point is, learn how to travel for you.

14. You need something to look forward to.

No matter how far away that trip is, you know you have a countdown going for when you’re hitting the road or  boarding that airplane .

Planning travel alone gives me a thrill, even if it’ll be years before I can make a particular bucket list trip  happen.

Fun fact: If you need some inspiration on that bucket list, France may have sparkling water fountains, but Ortona, Italy, has a free wine fountain. You’re welcome.

Certainly, the act of travel itself is better and vastly different than the planning bit, but just knowing that you’ll be going somewhere sometime soon is quite the thrill.

Some people look forward to Super Bowl Sunday. That’s fine, but what if you had something more transformative planned?

Travel can be that thing.

15. You’ll have exciting stories.

It’s always more fun to talk about your own travel than listen to stories about someone else’s, right? It might make us uncomfortable to think about but sit with that for a second.

That said, travel can make you an interesting human, as long as you’re not being self-important about it.

Don’t be annoying when you come back and have to interact with your family and friends and you should be good. Be extra mindful around loved ones who can’t travel for whatever reason.

Be extra annoying around those who say travel is overrated, though.

16. At a certain point, it’ll be too late.

I hate to get morbid on you, but you can’t bring your stuff with you when you go. You can’t bring that new TV or that new (or used) car or the crap you got when shopping for antiques.

There will come a point in your life when you feel like that life has just zipped right past you. It’s the time hospice nurses tell us about. They warn us that the regrets they hear about most often are about bucket lists and missed experiences, not the stuff you didn’t buy when you were young and healthy.

You should probably also repair any relationships that need repairing while you’re at it. That’s another big one.

17. The world is a big place, and you just want to see it all.

This one speaks to me.

Every time I come back from somewhere, my mom says, “You’ve pretty much been everywhere now, huh?”

Not even close.

Why is it important to travel to other countries? It’s important to travel to other countries because it gives you perspective. Travel changes you, no matter how often you get yourself out there. It’s almost impossible to get jaded by travel, even if you return to places more than once for a deeper dive.

I could  go to France  a dozen times, for example, and never get bored. Some of it may be the cheese and carbs involved with every trip there. 

Why Travel Is Important

Is it about the journey or the destination? When it comes to travel, it could be a little of both. 

The why starts to matter less when you’re taking action toward your bliss.

In the era of social media, it’s hard not to feel like you’re not doing enough, you’re not living enough, you’re not hip enough, or thin enough, or just enough. 

You ARE enough, though. So get out there, already, and experience life!

Why Is Trip Planning Important?

Your Flight:  I use a variety of tools to find cheap airfare, but if you’re looking to book during a particular period of time, especially during busy times (e.g. school breaks), you should use  Skyscanner .

It’s a great tool for when you’re more flexible, too, as it allows you to compare travel based on length of travel, departure date, etc.

Adventurous folks may love subscribing to  Going , formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights. You’ll get all kinds of deals in your inbox throughout the year.

Your Accommodations: I usually recommend sites like Booking.com and Hotels.com for accommodations. Vrbo is my preferred Airbnb alternative.

Seeking even more wallet-friendly accommodations? Try Hostelworld . Their picks are heavily vetted and reviewed to offer you a safe experience on a budget.

Etc.:  For general travel goodies, visit my  Favorite Things  page. For more information on planning your travel, visit my  Travel Tools  page.

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Looking for more inspirational content? Check out these posts:

• Explore the Beauty of Lazy Travel
• Road Trip Stories to Inspire You to Hit the Road
• Best Travel Quotes for Friends Who Love Travel
• Benefits of Travel Across Life’s Milestones
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Too much, or just enough?

Agnes Groonwald

26 thoughts on “17 Reasons Why Travel Is Important (Just Go, Already!)”

Here are a couple more: You want to give your dad in law quality time with your (and his) favorite puppy and see the joy in both of their eyes. Sharing your travel with others who go out and try the same experience and see how they put their own stamp on the journey. Coming home and enjoying the love of your family who enjoy hearing how the latest trip beat all expectations.

I like ’em all! :)

As a travel addict for me the main reason is the 2nd one of your list: I love to discover new places/ food and people and be amazed! But there is never only one reason of course :)

Of course! My reasons tend to change as I get older, too. ?

I love this post! These are all great “why” reasons for traveling. I’m definitely drawn to seeing the world and experiencing new cultures and food!

Food is definitely top of my list! :)

I love and relate to so many of these! My partner and I have always travelled together, three years ago we moved from Australia to Canada together which made us SO much closer. Jumping into the unknown together really is a make or break for sure!

I also love to travel to explore new places and as you said, escape the daily grind!

I try to do something every trip that scares me (adrenaline junkie right here!)

Great list! I loved reading it xx

Thanks, Chelsea! The first trip my now husband and I took together was a huge fail (through no fault of our own), but it was telling to see that we were able to survive it successfully! :)

This is a great post and a great way to look at traveling. It can offer so much to people in so many different ways.

Thanks for the kind words, Jenny!

Bucket lists are so not lame! There are so many beautiful, interesting places in the world, that no one can expect me to remember them all. I totally agree with you, bucket lists are great.

Right?? Whatever gets you out there exploring more is fine with me!

I love the philosophical personal narrative of this post. The main reason I travelled solo was to find sunshine. Unfortunately my own country (Ireland) has everything a person could desire apart from decent weather. So that’s it. Sunshine is my bliss and I ensure to find it at least once a year!

Love Ireland! Can’t wait to get back there when we’re able. We’ve only done Dublin!

I’ve always travelled to far-away places to explore new cultures and traditions to open my mind and broaden my horizons and now I’m currently on a mission to discover all the beauties in my home country, Italy :)

Oh, Italy. I can’t wait to get back there!

Great post! I travel alone so I can’t test anyone but I definitely relate to 10. I want to see and photograph the world and share it with everyone!

I’m embarrassed to say I haven’t solo traveled. Maybe once we’re able to get out there again, I should try??

You nailed it on all of these reasons. I especially love the fact that travel does bring you closer to the one you are traveling with. My hubby is my travel partner and I love that we have special experiences that only the two of us have experienced together. :)

Agreed. I’m not sure if we’d work if we weren’t good travel buddies!

Great article! and yes, traveling just brings us good memories, learning experiences and meeting people all over the world is my favorite thing to do.

Thanks, Paula! It’s always great to broaden your horizons.

I agree with all the reasons! I think that my whys are number one, two and ten :) I can’t wait to be able to travel again and explore as many beautiful places around the world as I can.

It’ll happen soon, I hope!

I love this post, Agnes! I relate to a bit of everything, but particularly 10, 13 & 15! It’s about feeding an insatiable curiosity about other places and cultures, and a dream to see beautiful places. But it’s also about challenging myself and most of all, having fun in the process!

Completely agree with all of that. Looking forward to getting back into it soon!

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15+ Reasons Why Travel Is Important in Our Life

Travel is often considered one of life’s finest pleasures, offering an array of reviews and advantages that pass beyond mere entertainment. Whether exploring destinations, trekking via a pristine desert, or immersing yourself in a new culture, the tour has the energy to convert and enrich our lives in infinite ways. This Blog explores 15 compelling reasons why travel is important for non-public boom, cultural enrichment, and typical well-being.

Table of Contents

Unveiling why travel is important: a journey toward personal growth and cultural insight, 1. learning and education:.

Immersive Exploration:

Travel is a living classroom, offering immersive encounters that breathe life into historical narratives, cultural traditions, and breathtaking landscapes. It transcends the confines of traditional education, weaving a narrative of discovery and enlightenment.

Cultural Deep Dive:

Beyond the pages of textbooks, travel beckons individuals to immerse themselves in diverse cultures. It’s a transformative experience where one engages with locals, absorbs traditions, and gains a profound understanding of societal intricacies, fostering a genuine admiration for the world’s rich tapestry of diversity.

2. Perspective Shift:

Cultural Kaleidoscope:

Embarking on a journey introduces us to a cultural kaleidoscope, challenging our preconceived notions and expanding our horizons. The contrasts in traditions and lifestyles cultivate an inclusive, open-minded worldview, making every trip a stepping stone towards global understanding.

Global Consciousness:

Travel, beyond being a personal exploration, contributes to a global consciousness. It exposes us to the multifaceted challenges faced by different societies, instilling a deep sense of shared humanity and the imperative of global collaboration for a harmonious world.

3. Career Benefits:

Global Competence:

In the professional realm, travel acts as a catalyst for cultivating global competence. Manoeuvring through diverse environments hones adaptability and effective cross-cultural communication skills, qualities that are increasingly essential in our interconnected global landscape.

Networking Beyond Borders:

The bonds forged amid new adventures extend far beyond professional circles. These shared experiences create a unique camaraderie, fostering connections that transcend workplace boundaries and enrich personal and professional networks.

4. Adventure and Excitement:

Unforgettable Encounters:

Each journey unfolds as a symphony of novel experiences. From savouring exotic cuisines to participating in adrenaline-pumping adventures, travel encapsulates moments that etch themselves into the fabric of our lives, creating a tapestry of unforgettable encounters.

The Thrill of Uncharted Territories:

Venturing into unfamiliar destinations sparks the thrill of discovery. Navigating through bustling markets or trekking uncharted paths becomes a metaphor for self-discovery, a journey where the unknown becomes a canvas for personal growth.

5. Self-Reflection:

Moments of Contemplation:

Beneath the surface of excitement lies a serene space for introspection. Amidst the immersive experiences, travellers find moments of quiet reflection, offering a sanctuary for self-awareness and a deeper understanding of personal values.

A Pause from Routine:

Stepping away from the familiar routine provides more than a physical break. It is a pause that allows for recalibration, a chance to reassess priorities, and a rediscovery of purpose. Travel becomes a transformative retreat for self-discovery.

6. Building Confidence:

Triumph over Challenges:

Travel is a narrative of challenges met and conquered. Whether overcoming language barriers or navigating unknown territories, each triumph contributes to the development of resilience and self-assurance, shaping us into more confident individuals.

Fostering Independence:

The nature of travel demands self-reliance. Negotiating the complexities of a new environment fosters a sense of independence, empowering individuals to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and grace.

7. Creativity Boost:

Cultural Inspirations:

Diverse art, architecture, and lifestyles encountered during travel become wellsprings of creativity. The infusion of new perspectives serves as a catalyst, inspiring innovative thinking and artistic expression that transcend the boundaries of routine.

Liberation from Routine:

Breaking away from the mundane routine creates mental space for creativity to flourish. Travel becomes a liberating force, opening the mind to novel ideas and unexplored possibilities, sparking the flame of creative genius.

8. Health and Well-being:

Tranquil Retreat:

One of the invaluable gifts of travel is the tranquillity it offers. Moving away from the demands of daily life allows for mental rejuvenation, contributing to improved overall well-being and a revitalized sense of self.

Movement for Wellness:

Engaging in physical activities, inherent to many travel experiences, promotes a healthier lifestyle. Whether exploring a city on foot or embracing outdoor adventures, travel becomes a journey of physical well-being and an embodiment of the adage “a healthy mind in a healthy body.”

9. Creating Lasting Memories:

Bonds Forged in Adventure:

Travelling with loved ones creates a tapestry of shared memories. These shared adventures not only strengthen bonds but also become a timeless source of joy, cementing relationships in the mosaic of cherished moments.

Photographic Chronicles:

In capturing moments through photographs, travellers create a visual chronicle of their journey. Each image encapsulates a story, a tangible reminder of the experiences that have shaped them, becoming snapshots of a life well-traveled.

10. Camaraderie and Social Connections:

Cultural Connections:

Interacting with locals and fellow travellers forms connections that transcend borders. Shared experiences become the foundation for friendships, fostering a sense of camaraderie and global community that enriches the fabric of human connection.

Embracing Diversity:

Engaging with individuals from diverse backgrounds promotes understanding and tolerance. These connections become a celebration of diversity, an acknowledgement that our differences are threads that weave the beautiful tapestry of our shared human experience.

11. Celebrating Diversity:

Cultural Festivals:

Attending cultural festivals and events in different parts of the world provides a firsthand experience of diversity in celebration. It offers a glimpse into the vibrancy and richness of global cultures.

Historical Understanding:

Exploring historical sites and landmarks becomes a journey through time, contributing to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world’s diverse history. Travel becomes a living history lesson.

12. Escape from Routine:

Relaxation:

Travel offers a much-needed break from the routine, providing individuals with the opportunity to relax, recharge, and return with a renewed sense of energy and enthusiasm.

Novel Environments:

Being in a new environment stimulates the senses and provides a break from the monotony of daily life. The change of scenery becomes a catalyst for relaxation and mental rejuvenation.

13. Environmental Awareness:

Nature Exploration:

Visiting natural wonders and ecosystems fosters an appreciation for the environment. Experiencing the beauty of nature firsthand promotes a sense of responsibility for its preservation.

Ecotourism:

Engaging in sustainable and responsible travel practices contributes to environmental conservation efforts. Travel becomes a vehicle for promoting eco-friendly choices and minimizing one’s ecological footprint.

14. Tolerance and Empathy:

Cultural Understanding:

Experiencing different cultures firsthand promotes empathy, tolerance, and a recognition of the common humanity that transcends cultural differences. It becomes a powerful tool for building bridges and fostering understanding.

Breaking Stereotypes:

Travel challenges stereotypes and prejudices by offering real, human connections. It provides a firsthand experience that goes beyond media portrayals, fostering a more inclusive and accepting mindset.

15. Time for Reflection:

Solo Travel Opportunities:

Travelling alone provides ample time for introspection and self-discovery. The solo journey becomes a transformative experience, allowing individuals to gain clarity about their values and life goals.

Disconnecting from Technology:

Being in a new environment encourages individuals to disconnect from technology. The absence of constant digital distractions creates space for quiet contemplation and mindfulness.

16. Adventurous Activities:

Outdoor Pursuits:

Travel destinations often offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, or water sports. Engaging in these pursuits not only promotes a more active lifestyle but also adds an adventurous dimension to the travel experience.

Pushing Personal Limits:

Engaging in adventurous activities can push individuals out of their comfort zones. The thrill of trying something new fosters personal growth, resilience, and a sense of accomplishment

 Impact on Our Lives, Why travel is important?

Travelling has a profound impact on various aspects of our lives, influencing personal development, mental well-being, and overall perspectives. Here are some points highlighting how travel impacts our lives:

• ** Cultural Enrichment: Travel exposes us to diverse cultures, traditions, and ways of life, fostering cultural appreciation and understanding.
• ** Personal Growth: Stepping out of our comfort zones during travel leads to self-discovery, increased confidence, and a broader understanding of our capabilities.
• ** Broadened Perspectives: Experiencing different environments challenges our perspectives, promoting open-mindedness and a more inclusive worldview.
• ** Education and Learning: Travel provides hands-on, experiential learning opportunities, offering insights into history, art, language, and local customs.
• ** Stress Reduction: Taking a break from routine and immersing oneself in a new environment contributes to stress reduction and mental rejuvenation.
• ** Relationship Building: Traveling with friends or family creates shared experiences, strengthening bonds and fostering a sense of togetherness.
• ** Career Benefits: Exposure to diverse cultures enhances cross-cultural communication skills, adaptability, and global awareness, providing a competitive edge in the professional world.
• ** Creativity Boost: Exposure to new stimuli and environments stimulates creativity, inspiring fresh perspectives and innovative thinking.
• ** Health and Well-being: Engaging in outdoor activities and exploring new places contributes to physical health and overall well-being.
• ** Memorable Experiences: Travel creates lasting memories, enriching our lives with unique and unforgettable experiences.
• ** Culinary Exploration: Trying local cuisines introduces us to new flavours and culinary traditions, expanding our gastronomic horizons.
• ** Environmental Awareness: Visiting natural wonders fosters an appreciation for the environment and encourages sustainable travel practices.
• ** Tolerance and Empathy: Experiencing different cultures promotes tolerance, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the diversity within the global community.
• ** Adventure and Exploration: Traveling provides opportunities for adventure, encouraging individuals to push their boundaries and embrace new challenges.
• ** Quality Leisure Time: Travel offers a break from routine responsibilities, providing leisure time for relaxation, exploration, and personal reflection.
• ** Historical Understanding: Visiting historical sites allows us to connect with the past, contributing to a richer understanding of historical events and cultural heritage.
• ** Global Awareness: Traveling expands our awareness of global issues and challenges, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and interconnectedness.
• ** Solo Exploration: Traveling alone promotes self-reliance, independence, and self-discovery, offering a unique and transformative experience.
• ** Gratitude: Experiencing different lifestyles and living conditions can cultivate gratitude for the comforts and opportunities in one’s life.
• ** Life-Long Learning: Travel encourages a mindset of continuous learning, curiosity, and exploration, promoting a lifelong commitment to personal growth.

In essence, travel is a transformative force that goes beyond the mere act of moving from one place to another. It shapes our perspectives, enriches our lives with diverse experiences, and contributes to our personal and cultural development in profound ways.

In the end, a tour is an essential component of the human experience, providing a mess of advantages that decorate our lives on multiple levels. It expands our horizons, encourages gaining knowledge, promotes personal increase and self-discovery, fosters cultural know-how, offers pressure comfort, strengthens relationships, fosters creativity, and brings adventure and amusement. Travel is not just an enjoyable hobby but a powerful tool for enriching our minds, fostering empathy, and enhancing our overall well-being. It allows us to connect to the arena in profound methods, in the long run making us better international residents and more fulfilled people.

Aiman Khalid

I’m Aiman Khalid, your dedicated SEO Analyst. With a passion for digital marketing and a keen eye for optimizing online experiences, I’ve made it my mission to help businesses thrive in the digital realm. My journey into the world of SEO began with a fascination for search engines and their algorithms, and since then, I’ve honed my skills to become a seasoned professional. Armed with years of experience, I specialize in crafting SEO strategies that not only boost search engine rankings but also drive tangible results, such as increased website traffic and conversions. I’m here to demystify the world of SEO and empower your online presence, one keyword at a time.

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5 Scientifically Proven Health Benefits of Traveling Abroad

When was the last time you traveled abroad? Traveling for business is one thing, but I’m talking about packing your bags, logging out of your email account and disconnecting from your normal routine for a week or more.

Traveling the world isn’t just fun and exciting; there’s ample research to suggest it’s highly beneficial for your physical, mental and emotional health as well.

Check Out These Five Proven Benefits

Americans may say they like to travel, but most don’t venture abroad very often. According to a study published in the Hostelworld Global Traveler Report, Americans are half as likely as Europeans to go abroad and visit more than one country.

The average resident of the UK has visited 10 countries, Germans have seen eight, and the French traveled to five nations on average. But Americans? They tend to visit just three. In fact, 29 percent of American adults have never been abroad!

When citizens of the U.S. do move past the border, most visit Canada or Mexico. Affordability is evidently a big factor — about 71 percent of Americans say it’s too expensive to leave the country — but that’s hardly the whole story.

Given what all the travel and deal sites have to offer today, you can travel abroad without ransacking your piggy bank. Perhaps many Americans don’t grasp the benefits of traveling abroad — and there are many!

Let’s dive in and take a look at some of the health benefits that researchers have explored and verified scientifically.

1. Travel Makes You Healthier

According to a joint study from the Global Commission on Aging and Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies, in partnership with the U.S. Travel Association, traveling actually keeps you healthier . The study found that women who vacation at least twice a year show a significantly lower risk of suffering a heart attack than those who only travel every six years or so.

The same is true for men. Men who do not take an annual vacation show a 20 percent higher risk of death and 30 percent greater risk of heart disease.

2. Travel Relieves Stress

Although missing a connecting flight or losing baggage in a foreign airport is sure to boost your anxiety, traveling has been scientifically proven to lower stress levels, and rather dramatically.

RELATED: Try These Simple 1-minute Meditations to Calm Your Mind

According to one study , three days after taking a vacation, travelers report feeling less anxious, more rested and in a better mood. Interestingly, these benefits tend to linger for weeks after the trip has ended.

3. Travel Enhances Your Creativity

“Foreign experiences increase both cognitive flexibility and depth and integrativeness of thought, the ability to make deep connections between disparate forms,” explains Adam Galinsky , a professor at Columbia Business School who has authored a number of studies that investigate the concrete links between creativity and international travel.

Travel alone isn’t enough, however. Galinsky has found that international travelers have to be purposeful about engaging.

RELATED: 7 Creative Pep Talks to Get You Through the Work Week

“The key, critical process is multicultural engagement, immersion and adaptation,” he continues. “Someone who lives abroad and doesn’t engage with the local culture will likely get less of a creative boost than someone who travels abroad and really engages in the local environment.”

4. Travel Boosts Happiness and Satisfaction

Most people tend to be happier when they’re traveling and don’t have to worry about work, of course. However, one of the more interesting takeaways from a Cornell University study is that people also experience a direct increase in happiness from just planning a trip.

Three days after taking a vacation, travelers report feeling less anxious, more rested and in a better mood.

The study found that the anticipation of taking a vacation is far greater than the anticipation of acquiring a physical possession. Thus, the benefits of traveling abroad begin well before the trip does.

5. Travel Lowers the Risk of Depression

While people tend to avoid the subject in our society, depression is unfortunately a major problem. Millions of Americans struggle with depression on a regular basis and it’s not uncommon for doctors to overprescribe medication for depression.

Luckily, healthier alternatives are available for escaping the hopelessness of a depressed state. According to research, travel may be one of them.

A study from the Marshfield Clinic in Wisconsin found that women who vacation at least twice a year are less likely to suffer from depression and chronic stress than women who vacation less than once every two years.

Where Will Your Travels Take You This Year?

So there are clear, scientifically-backed health benefits of traveling the world. Mentally, physically and emotionally, you can gain a lot from packing your bags and visiting places you’ve never been.

But where will you go? Thousands of places across the world are worth visiting. Here are a few that should be on your radar:

• London, England. London is a must-visit city. If you’re new to international travel and want to get your feet wet, there’s probably no better destination. Not only is there a lot to do in London , but it’s cheap and easy to get to from most major U.S. cities. There’s also no language barrier, which is a bonus for people who get nervous about that.
• Cape Town, South Africa. The beauty of Cape Town is astonishing. Not only is the landscape unique, but there’s wildlife galore, including the Big Five (lion, elephant, Cape buffalo, leopard, and rhino). There’s much to see ; whether you prefer a fast pace or slow and easy, there’s an itinerary for you.
• Lucerne, Switzerland. If you’ve never been to Switzerland, Lucerne is a fantastic first city to experience. Conveniently near to the Zurich airport, the town is compact, yet lively. Not only are there lots of attractions in the city , but you can enjoy an array of hiking trails just outside of town.
• Auckland, New Zealand. Whether you want to kayak to a volcano, abseil down a waterfall, swim with sharks, or tackle challenging trails on a mountain bike, Auckland has everything an adventure lover could ask for. Oh, and it’s also a city that teems with good food and entertainment.

For many, the notion of international travel isn’t as mysterious and thrilling as it used to be. In a world accessible via YouTube, Google Earth, and virtual reality, many think they’ve already seen all the world has to offer, when they’ve really only stared at a screen a few inches in front of their face.

If you want to enjoy the scientifically proven health benefits of travel abroad, you should start planning a trip. Whether you go to London, Cape Town, Lucerne, Auckland, or somewhere entirely different, boarding a plane and flying to a foreign destination where you’re equal parts excited and intimidated is great for your growth and development.

Where will you go?

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• Self-Improvement

Why is Travel Important? Here Are 7 Important Benefits of Traveling

Wondering why travel is an important part of life here are the most impactful benefits of traveling, including health, happiness, and more.

As I write this, the world is in the midst of the second wave of the coronavirus crisis. Travel is far below the level it was at back in 2019, and it’ll be some time before it picks back up to pre-pandemic levels.

So, it feels a bit weird to write an article on the benefits of traveling and why travel is important.

But, travel will make a comeback. When it does, health and safety risks will remain. Many fair-weather travelers may be hesitant to return to the skies, roads, rails, and seas. 

However, traveling is important and its benefits far outweigh the risks involved.

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Here are some of the most important benefits of traveling:

1. Travel Makes You Happier

Sure, a travel experience easily makes you happier by getting you away from your daily grind. And, if you can get away from your parents, kids, freelance work , pets, homework, piano lessons, part-time job , studying for exams or any other things possibly weighing you down, that will definitely put a smile on your face, to say the least.

However, travel makes you happier in another way, as well. According to a study by Amit Kumar, Matthew A. Killingsworth, and Thomas Gilovich from Cornell University, that money spent on doing something (called “experiential purchases”) will leave you with a longer-lasting sense of happiness than money spent on having something (called “material purchases”). 

The study says that “waiting for experiences tends to be more positive than waiting for possessions.” And, it goes on to say that “people derive more happiness from the anticipation of experiential purchases and that waiting for an experience tends to be more pleasurable and exciting than waiting to receive a material good.”

Related Read : The Best Work-Life Balance Quotes to Know

2. Travel Lets You Disconnect & Recharge

One of the best things you can do for your mental health every now and again, especially as a busy college student with an evening job or a young professional working 12-hour shifts, is to disconnect in order to recharge.

Working or studying for days, weeks, and months on end may help get you where you’re looking to go. However, you deserve a break every once in a while from the chronic stress. If not, you may suffer from burnout, depression, anxiety, and a whole host of other problems and ailments.

If traveling to a foreign country or experiencing a different culture doesn’t sound like a true break from everyday life and its stressful situations, stay local or do a solo trip to someplace remote and serene. The important thing for your is to unwind. That’s a health benefit and travel tip all rolled into one!

3. Traveling Relieves Stress and Anxiety

In a randomized controlled trial conducted by Austrian researchers and published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health , one of the many great travel benefits is that it can reduce stress levels and anxiety.

The researchers found that even just one short-term vacation (~3 days in length) “independent of the mode, has large, positive and immediate effects on perceived stress, recovery, strain, and well-being.” Furthermore, the beneficial effects last quite a while after you return home. “The effects can still be detected at 30 days (recovery) and 45 days (well-being and strain) post-vacation.”

Just make sure the way you travel doesn’t cause you stress, either! If you have a fear of air travel or a disdain for family travel, go by rail or take a solo travel experience. The important thing is to break away from the chronic stress of everyday life in order to calm down and reset your mind.

Related Read : How to Set Goals You Will Actually Achieve

4. Travel Exposes You to New Things

When you travel, you are stepping outside your comfort zone, for one thing. Even if your destination is relatively nearby (across the country rather than internationally), you are still experiencing new things.

Mark Twain said it best in one of my favorite travel quotes:

“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime.”

5. Travel Exposes Others to New Things

When you meet someone new, whether it’s in another town nearby or in a city halfway around the world, they also are meeting you. And, just as you’re being exposed to new foods, culture, languages, traditions, and so forth, they’re also getting a taste of yours. Just remember to be a good ambassador for your hometown, values, and beliefs!

When you visit a new place, meet new people, and learn about a new culture, whether through group travel or when traveling solo, the benefit to your life is immense, but it also benefits your friends, family, and other loved ones. Not only will you get to experience new things, but you’ll also bring what you learn back to your school, workplace, and hometown.

Related Read : 15+ Best Educational Podcasts to Listen to for Everyday Learning

6. Travel Makes You Physically Healthier

If you’re an active individual and asking why is travel important, there are some great benefits of traveling in store for you! From running through airports and train stations to make that tight connection to hiking through uneven terrain on your mountain climbing adventures to getting some vitamin D as you catch some rays on the beach, there are many reasons why travel is beneficial to your health.

According to a study by the Global Commission on Aging and Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies, in partnership with the U.S. Travel Association, travel decreases the risks of heart attacks and makes your brain healthier. The study determined that men who take an annual vacation are 30% less likely to die from heart disease, among other findings.

7. Traveling Can Boost Your Creativity

Are you a student, artist, writer, photographer, chef, advertising manager, or video game designer struggling with coming up with your next great idea? Traveling can help! If you’re looking to reignite your creativity, head on to Kayak and start booking some international flight tickets.

“Foreign experiences increase both cognitive flexibility and depth and integrativeness of thought, the ability to make deep connections between disparate forms,” Adam Galinsky, a professor at Columbia Business School, tells The Atlantic . Cognitive flexibility plays a major role in overall creativity, defined as the ability for a person to be able to entertain various ideas and viewpoints one after the other.

So, when it’s safe to do so, get back out there and travel.

You’ll improve your happiness and mood, get exposed to new things, strengthen your mind and body, remove stress and anxiety, and so much more!

Got any questions, feedback, or other great reasons why travel is important? Let us know in the comments below, and thanks for reading!

Related Read : 21+ Growth Mindset Quotes to Know for Success, Happiness & Fulfillment

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1. Traveling broadens your perspective.

2. It allows you to see the world from a different angle.

3. It helps you to learn new things.

4. It makes you more tolerant and understanding

It’s fascinating that you point out that traveling offers a great way to relieve anxiety. I’ve been having a lot of anxiety for the past three months because of my divorce, so I’m considering booking a tour of Europe this summer. I’m going to look for a good business that offers tours of Europe.

Love this Christian, it keeps me do travel multiple times a year. Thank you so much.

I am Ain from Malaysia. I’m looking for contents to be used on my school assignment about travelling and I found your website would be so helpful for me and my group members. In this assignment , we are required to choose our international destination. In this assignment , we are going to make a report paper and two products (brochure and presentation). This work won’t be published online. We would like to include flight ticket to our destination , foods , place to stay , transportation and more. So , here I would like to ask for your permission to use contents from your website. This is the link to the content that me and my group members would like / might to use:

https://www.goodwall.io/blog/benefits-of-traveling/

I hope you can approve my permission. That would be great for us!

Thank you very much & stay safe!

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7 Personal Benefits of Travel

Forget milling around in your finest evening wear, Singapore Sling in hand: You'll be lucky to get peanuts. Flying isn't quite the party it was in Sinatra's days, and lots of time, energy, and money are expended to leave home, so why travel? How long do the  personal benefits of travel last?

Getting away from home and stepping outside of your usual routine is beneficial for both mind and body. The long-lasting personal benefits of visiting a foreign country far outweigh the costs and time to get there.

The great travel writer Pico Lyer said: "Travel is not really about leaving our homes, but leaving our habits." Here are seven ways that travel, especially  international travel, will enhance your life.

Travel Sharpens the Mind

You've done your old routine for so many years that you could run through it on autopilot. Being dropped into a new environment engages a dormant part of your mind and gets those synapses firing again.

Suddenly, you'll be required to navigate unfamiliar places, read foreign languages , try new things, make quick decisions, and choose your new eating and sleeping schedule.

Unlike at home, all the new sights, sounds, and places will require mental processing and filing. Your brain will welcome the workout! Once you return home, you'll be sharper than ever for better organizing and sprucing up your daily routine.

A Shift in Perspective

"Nobody comes back from a journey the way they started it." — Unknown

Being exposed to new cultures and people will greatly shift your paradigm and create a healthier perspective once you return back home. Seeing different social classes creates compassion and really makes you feel more blessed and content. Large portions of the world's population have to deal with daily threats such as hunger, disease , and landmines .

A hard day at work suddenly doesn't seem so bad when you see people in developing countries toiling in sun-scorched fields from morning to dark, or begging for a drink of water.

A Chance to Try New Things

"Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail." — Ralph Waldo Emerson

While you may branch out at home from time to time by trying new restaurants or splurging on expenditures, traveling kicks you out of the comfort zone and forces you, for better or worse, to try new things!

Even if you don't enjoy your first attempt at scuba diving , at least you'll be able to relate in a new way the next time you see it in a movie or hear someone talking about it.

Becoming a well-rounded individual enhances self-confidence and will help you find new material for conversation in social settings with a wider variety of people.

Who knows, you may accidentally discover your new favorite food or find out that you want to pursue a new career in karaoke!

Meet New People

"A journey is best measured in friends, not in miles." — Tim Cahill

You'll meet far more friendly people on the road than you will under ordinary circumstances at home.

Other travelers are always looking to share experiences, give tips on places to go, and meet people from all over. Striking up a conversation with other travelers is extraordinarily easy.

A polite "so where are you from?" breaks the ice quite easily and may lead to lasting friendships with people from all over the world.

See the Real Deal

"To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries." — Aldous Huxley

Until you visit a place and form your own opinions, your understanding only comes from what you were taught in school, read in books, or saw on media, which may or may not be a complete truth.

Don't over-research your upcoming destination in guidebooks. Do your best to avoid building a bias toward a place or installing mental filters before you visit. Wait to form your own opinion, remaining objective until you can make up your own mind.

Exercise and Sunshine

Sure, you could just go sweat in the gym under fluorescent lighting, but chances are that you'll be much more active from day to day while on the road, regardless of whether your trip is an adventurous one or simply a relaxing beach trip .

You could be exploring new cities on foot, hiking , swimming, walking between places, and hopefully soaking up some needed sunshine while doing so. And it's guaranteed to smell better than the gym.

Come Home Renewed

After stepping away from home for a while, you'll return with renewed energy, a new set of mental filters, and ready to take on the next big project or challenge. Call it a life reboot.

Getting away for some time, even though it requires effort, will greatly enhance your attitude and productivity once you return home. Sure, you may have some mail piled up and matters to attend, but those are simple challenges easily knocked out.

Breaking up the monotony for a while is a great way to reduce stress and give your life an injection of excitement. Don't be surprised if shortly after your return, you're already counting down days until the next trip!

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