Travel, for Italians, is a rich and complex emotional experience that passes through technology, as revealed by recent research commissioned by Trainline, an app for booking trains and coaches, from the Human Highway research institute. With the contribution of psychotherapist Stefania Andreoli, the study explored the emotions felt by Italians before, during and after the trip, highlighting generational differences and identifying different profiles of travellers.
The train confirms itself as the favorite means of transport for Italians for summer holidays, chosen by 29% of those interviewed. GenZ is the generation most inclined to prefer the train, with 45% choosing it for their travel. This vehicle transmits relaxation, proactiveness and serenity, both on the outward and return journey, favoring a pleasant and stress-free journey.
The trip planning phase is a moment of great importance, with four out of five people dedicating themselves to it meticulously. Involving other participants in choosing destinations and stops is common, with 65.7% doing so regularly. This phase is not without anxiety: 58.3% of interviewees experience mixed emotions, including indecision (32.1%), worry (18.7%) and stress (18.1%). GenZ emerges as the most emotional, with a high degree of anticipatory anxiety, but also euphoria and energy.
During travel, negative emotions tend to fade. 90% feel at the top of their abilities, with half of the sample feeling only positive emotions such as energy and openness to new things. GenZ, in particular, shows a strong need to stay connected and not miss any events (what in jargon is called FOMO, or “fear of missing out”): 81.7% of the sample declares they have the fear of miss events while away and as many as 90.1% say they want to always be connected. The older adults, however, appear more serene and relaxed, demonstrating an openness to the new and an ability to fully enjoy the experience.
The return from the trip, then, is characterized by a combination of emotions. 70% of respondents are happy to return to their daily routine, while 63.9% are looking forward to reuniting with friends and family. However, over half feel anxious and struggle to retain the benefits of travel, with 49.9% stressed about unpacking. Positive emotions include contentment, relaxation, and serenity, while nostalgia and tiredness are common among negative feelings. Trainline also published a playlist designed to maintain the positivity of the trip even once you return home.
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