Wellcations are on the rise ahead of Global Mental Health Day

Posted on 30 September 2021

According to a new report released from Amex Trendex*, which surveyed consumers across seven countries, “wellcations” or vacations geared towards improving one’s mental health or wellbeing, are marking the top of most travelers’ lists.

With Global Mental Health Day (10/12) around the corner, the survey found that 81% of consumers surveyed agree that they value the freedom to travel more now than they did prior to the pandemic and 68% are likely to base their next vacation around improving their mental well-being.

The Amex Trendex uncovered how consumers across the US, UK, Australia, Japan, Australia, Japan, Mexico, India, and Canada are investing their time and money in their physical and mental health to combat the toll the COVID-19 pandemic has taken on their well-being. Key survey findings include:

The “Wellcation” is the new Staycation
- 76% of consumers agree they want to spend more on travel to improve their well-being
- 55% say they would be willing to pay extra for wellness activities on future vacations
- 73% expect to spend more on travel in the next 12 months than they did last year
Finding Happiness Through Planning Future Vacations
- 81% agree they need a relaxing vacation now more than they did at this time last year
- 85% agree they feel most restored after traveling and 74% agree they are more motivated at work after returning from a vacation
- 77% agree they are more physically active when on vacation
- 88% agree that travel helps them improve their mental health
Travel Is Good for the Soul: Interest in Wellness Resorts
- 41% are interested in booking a hotel with wellness activities
- 38% are interested in visiting a wellness resort on their next trip
- 60% agree they are dreaming of planning a wellness focused trip
- 51% agree they are willing to pay more for hotels that have an in-room exercise program