Eight in 10 people believe having holidays planned is one of the most important things for their wellbeing.
A poll of 2,000 adults revealed 61% get a boost from having something to look forward to – with 78% expressing they feel more motivated in their day-to-day when they have a holiday in the calendar.
Interestingly, three-quarters of those surveyed admitted to feeling a thrill from merely booking a trip, with a quarter experiencing joy for up to a month or more afterward.
The research was commissioned by Walt Disney Travel Company International which has collaborated with psychologist Honey Langcaster-James, to explore how planning a holiday can provide a source of motivation, happiness and wellbeing.
“Anticipating a positive experience can help create a sense of optimism,” explained Honey Langcaster-James. “This is a psychological concept known as ‘anticipatory consumption.'”
The studies have also shown there are greater benefits to looking forward to an experience rather than a material possession.
According to Langcaster-James anticipating a positive experience and knowing there’s going to be a break from the norm, such as a holiday or some focused family time together, can significantly boost one’s outlook – helping to create a sense of optimism.
This can bring wellbeing benefits, especially during life’s more challenging moments. She added: “Having a holiday on the horizon provides them with something positive to focus on during tough times.”
Langcaster-James also suggested that planning a trip can boost psychological resilience. “Putting a planned trip or family experience into your calendar acts as a mental anchor and provides motivation and encouragement when it’s needed,” she added.
The survey found that 25% of participants aim to book their next holiday within a month of returning home to keep the positivity flowing, and two-thirds said the excitement of planning a trip is almost as thrilling as the holiday itself.
Planning a holiday can have additional benefits for families, Langcaster-James explained, as it provides a shared goal and experience to look forward to.
Highlighting Walt Disney Travel Company’s new 2025 combined hotel and ticketholiday offer for Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, Langcaster-James said: “For families, it’s more than just reserving a trip. It’s a way of setting a goal that everyone can contribute to, plan for, and anticipate together.”
“Whether it’s saving up or planning activities, this shared purpose can bring families closer and turn a holiday dream into a concrete plan. It’s especially empowering for parents to see a dream destination or special holiday coming to fruition.”
She added that the joy of looking forward to quality family time, sharing new experiences, and recharging together can help strengthen family bonds.
“Sometimes life gets in the way of spending quality time with loved ones,” noted Langcaster-James. “Planning a trip gives everyone something positive to chat about, relate to, and anticipate together.”
She ultimately surmised, “the wellbeing benefits of planning a holiday can begin long before you actually reach your destination.”
