8 surprising health benefits of holidays and travel

There's something about going on holiday that really does make us feel so much better. Warm sunshine, fresh air, delicious food and a chance to relax away from the stresses of normal life combine to boost our wellbeing.

But holidays don't just make us feel better, science has shown they really do help our health in surprising ways, from sleep, to our mental health and even longevity.

8 surprising holiday health benefits

Neuroscientist Dr Rachel Taylor told Saga Magazine, “Even the anticipation and planning of a holiday can offer significant health benefits. The process of planning allows your brain to focus on positive future events, which can trigger the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, motivation, and reward.

"This can enhance your mood, reduce stress, and even improve your overall sense of wellbeing.”

For all the proof you need that holidays may be just what the doctor ordered, we've got eight fact-based health benefits.

1. Travel can slow ageing

A 2024 Australian study found a link between travelling and longevity. While you can’t stop ageing, certain experiences can slow it down, including many things we experience while travelling.

Lead researcher Fangli Hu said: "Cultural trips could stimulate cognitive function and social interaction, while nature-based travel might foster relaxation and physical activity.” 

A 2022 study suggested those who travelled outside their local area were healthier than those who didn't - especially among the over 55s. A 2018 Finnish study also found older men who took three weeks or less annual holiday had a 37% greater chance of dying than those who took more than three weeks

2. Travel benefits your mental health

A 2025 study found the feel-good effect of a holiday can last up to 43 days after we return, and suggested that holidays which contained some physical activity had the most benefit to wellbeing.

Even booking a holiday can boost your mental health. A 2021 study found that 97 per cent of respondents report that having a trip planned makes them happier and boosts their sense of wellbeing.

Fatih Mustafa Çelebi, co-founder and CEO of Meditopia, an all-in-one mental health app says, “Mental health travel is about finding harmony between exploration and restoration.

"Building in moments of reflection and maintaining self-care routines can turn your trip into a deeply transformative experience.”

She recommends you set intentions for the trip and know exactly what you want to get out of it – whether that’s to unwind, explore, connect with nature, or something else.

3. Holidays can relieve arthritis pain 

Warmer, sunnier weather can help alleviate some of the pain from arthritis.

Dr Wendy Holden, Arthritis Action’s Medical Advisor said: “Many people with arthritis prefer warmer weather for their joints and studies have shown that joints can hurt more when the weather is damp or changeable, especially when the air pressure is changing. 

“Most people go on holiday to warmer parts of the world and being on holiday is usually a more relaxing environment away from daily worries which can also help with arthritis pain.”

4. Holidays get you moving 

A 2023 study found while on holiday we engage in 13% more physical exercise than we would normally. The incentive to walk into town, along the beach or even around the resort can be all the more inviting than treading those familiar streets of home.

Then of course, there’s the increased opportunities for swimming, and golf. And the chance to try new activities like paddle boarding or sailing too. There’s just something more appealing about getting out and exercising on a sunny day. 

“Holidays often involve physical activities which contribute to the release of serotonin, endorphins, and oxytocin,” says Dr Taylor.

“These neurotransmitters play a crucial role in regulating mood, promoting feelings of happiness, and fostering a sense of connection and belonging.”

5. Travel can help keep dementia at bay

If life at home feels a bit, well, monotonous, then holidays are the perfect chance to spice things up a bit and make new neural pathways by seeing new places, walking different routes and speaking to new people. As well as providing a new adventure they can give you something to talk about when you get home.

Dr Taylor says, “Novel experiences, such as going on a holiday, can promote neuroplasticity - the brain's ability to form new neural connections. This cognitive flexibility is vital for maintaining brain health and can potentially ward off brain illnesses like dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

"Engaging in new activities and environments stimulates different parts of the brain, keeping it active and resilient. 

“For individuals diagnosed with brain illnesses, holidays can provide mental stimulation, reduce stress, and improve overall quality of life."

6. Being abroad helps you vary your diet 

By going on a sunny holiday you’re already exposing yourself to more Vitamin D than you’d have at home, but you’ll also be getting more vitamins through your food too. 

Lucia Stansbie, Nutritional Therapist and Member of the Royal Society of Medicine says, “When on holiday we tend to dedicate proper time to enjoy our food, not rushing, and actually take the time to discover new flavour and dishes.”

“It is easy to fall into a routine when home, meaning reducing the variety of foods and consequently of nutrients. Going away can spark curiosity and help add new recipes and foods even when back home.”

7. Holidays help you to sleep 

“Holidays often lead to improved sleep quality due to the reduction in stress and the opportunity to establish healthier sleep routines,” says Dr Taylor. “Being in a relaxed environment can help reset your body's natural sleep-wake cycle, known as the circadian rhythm.” 

“Additionally, exposure to natural light during the day and reduced exposure to artificial light at night can enhance melatonin production, also leading to better sleep."

"Dr Holden says, “People often sleep better when they are on holiday which can also help with arthritis pain. Avoid food which is too rich at night and avoid too much alcohol which will worsen sleep quality.”

8. Shared holiday experiences release happy hormones

Being away from the daily grind is a great way for you and your family and friends to enjoy a new shared experience. It’s important to make new memories with your loved ones, not just hark back to the old ones.

“Social interactions can stimulate the release of oxytocin and dopamine, which contribute to positive emotions and wellbeing”, says Dr Taylor. 

“Engaging in meaningful relationships provides cognitive stimulation, helping to maintain cognitive function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

"Furthermore, social support acts as a buffer against stress, promoting emotional resilience and mental health.”