We love the beach. That should be pretty obvious by now.
Why? Well, simply put, it makes us happy. And we know it brings happiness to many of you as well. But then we started to wonder: does the beach make everyone happy, or just a few of us strange beach birds?
We decided to dig into the sand a little. We commissioned a major research study to examine the relationships, if any, between the beach lifestyle, travel, and happiness. Conducted by the University of Alabama's Public Opinion Lab, the study surveyed 1,040 random U.S. adults between the ages of 25 and 55 to determine people's level of happiness and how it is influenced by beaches and travel. (People over the age of 55 were excluded from the study, to limit the possible impact of retirement on one's happiness.)
We learned a lot. Here are six key findings — including some specific actions you can take right now to increase your personal happiness.
1. Planning a vacation makes you happy.
"People who are planning a vacation are significantly happier than those who aren't," said Dr. Jameson Hayes, associate professor and director of the Public Opinion Lab. "Reflecting back on your last vacation doesn't necessarily make you happier, but looking forward to your next trip certainly does."
2. It doesn't matter where you go.
Beaches are, by far, the preferred vacation destination — among 34.2 percent of respondents, with mountain vacations second at just under 20 percent. But the data shows that one's happiness increases regardless of the type of destination.
"Anticipating any upcoming vacation appears to significantly boost happiness, regardless of whether it's to the beach, the mountains, or a big city," said researcher Jay Waters of the University's College of Communication and Information Sciences.
3. The more you travel, the happier you are — but only up to a point.
Respondents who traveled for pleasure 15 to 21 days per year reported the highest levels of happiness. Those traveling less than two weeks per year, or more than three weeks per year, reported being less happy.
"It appears that happiness does have its limits as it relates to travel," said Waters. "Two to three weeks of annual vacation is the happiness sweet spot."
4. Vacation souvenirs increase happiness.
People who surround themselves with two to three physical reminders of their favorite vacation destination reported higher levels of happiness compared to those who don't.
"Surrounding yourself with mementos from past vacations such as apparel, photos, art, bumper stickers, and even phone ringtones can increase happiness levels," said Dr. Hayes.
5. Travelers use technology to stay connected with their favorite destinations.
Every week, 50 percent of respondents viewed social media posts that reminded them of their favorite destination. Following a destination on social media, adding it to their weather app, and having a related wallpaper on their phone or computer were the most commonly used reminders.
6. Post-pandemic travel is expected to increase.
Pre-pandemic, 58 percent of respondents said they normally spent less than five days per year on vacation. Medium travelers (6 to 14 vacation nights per year) comprised 29 percent, while heavy travelers (15 days or more) made up 13 percent of all respondents. Light travelers reported that they plan to travel significantly more as the pandemic wanes, with the group of medium travelers expected to increase by 15 percent.
Anticipation Trumps Nostalgia
Ultimately, researchers found that action is an essential key to unlocking happiness.
"We found that anticipation trumps nostalgia," said Waters. "So if you want to be instantly happier, book a trip."
Originally published in Beach Happy Magazine, Volume 8 (Spring 2022). Research conducted by the University of Alabama's Public Opinion Lab for The 30A Company.
