The psychology of wanderlust
why we crave new horizons
Hi! I’m Katie, and I’m a cultural and social psychologist—but you can think of me as your BFF with a PhD. I live in the desert of Texas alongside the cacti, roadrunners, and horned lizards. I’m also a travel curator, and I believe in the power of travel to inspire self-discovery, nurture your mental well-being, and create meaningful and magical memories. If you’re looking to understand your inner landscape and the whirlwind of the world around you, I hope you find something of value here. Make sure to subscribe—and you won’t miss a beat! Thank you so much for being here.
There's something about the open road, the promise of a new adventure, or the idea of immersing ourselves in a completely different culture that taps into an innate desire many of us share. It’s that feeling of wanderlust—the deep, almost magnetic pull to explore new places, to discover what lies beyond our own everyday world. But why does travel hold such a profound grip on us? What is it about new horizons that sparks our curiosity and urges us to pack our bags and set off?
At its core, wanderlust is more than just a desire for vacation or relaxation. It's a psychological need. Our brains, in fact, crave novelty, stimulation, and new experiences, and travel delivers all of these in abundance. But it’s not just about the act of going somewhere new. It's about what that experience represents to us on a deeper level.
The Drive for Novelty and Stimulation
Humans are hardwired for novelty. From a psychological standpoint, novelty is a key component of our brain’s reward system. It triggers the release of dopamine, the "feel-good" chemical. This craving for newness is why we seek out new experiences, whether it’s tasting a new cuisine, visiting an unfamiliar city, or exploring nature's untouched corners in our own backyard.
In fact, one study found that people who actively seek out novel experiences tend to have higher levels of life satisfaction. Why? Because those new experiences provide mental stimulation and a sense of accomplishment that we don’t always get from routine or the familiar. Travel offers an opportunity to break free from the monotony of daily life, pushing us outside our comfort zones and expanding our worldview in ways that spark joy and fulfillment.
I remember my first trip to Kenya, which was both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. It was a leap into the unknown for me, and I was filled with a mixture of excitement and anxiety. The journey was full of surprises, from seeing wildlife in their natural habitat to engaging with locals whose stories opened up new perspectives on life. The trip challenged me to face my own vulnerabilities, but it also taught me a lot about my own courage and resiliency. I realized how much I do thrive when learning, exploring, and expanding. In fact, the unfamiliar places and new experiences pushed me to grow.
However, not everyone shares the same level of craving for novelty. And, we all need balance in our travel experiences at the end of the day. While I found myself energized by the newness of Kenya, there are absolutely times I find comfort and fulfillment in the familiar. Some people may seek destinations that feel like a safe haven, a place where they can relax and recharge without the pressure of navigating the unknown. This is an important reminder: there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to travel. Some are drawn to unfamiliar territories and experiences, while others feel more at ease in places that offer a sense of comfort and routine. Further, there are times when we crave exciting adventures, and other times when the focus shifts to renewal and rest. Balance is key in all aspects of life, even travel plans.
If you’re curious about what type of traveler you are—whether you lean toward the thrill of new experiences or the comfort of familiar surroundings—take my free travel personality quiz! It’s a fun and insightful way to explore your own wanderlust and see how your preferences shape your travel choices. And remember, there’s no "right" or "wrong" type. Each personality has its own strengths, and no type is better than another. Understanding your travel style just allows you to embrace what works best for you and plan journeys that align with your personal needs and desires.
The Role of Identity and Self-Discovery
Travel isn’t just an external journey. It’s an internal one, as well. As we venture into the unknown, we often encounter parts of ourselves we hadn’t fully explored before. Whether it's navigating a foreign city or hiking through a wild landscape, these experiences challenge us, helping us grow and evolve. In many ways, we use travel to experiment with different aspects of our identity. We might try new activities, speak a different language, or find ourselves in a setting where we’re not defined by our usual roles.
This process of self-discovery is one of the reasons we feel so drawn to the idea of travel. It’s a way of reconnecting with ourselves, of finding out who we really are outside the confines of our routine life. It’s why so many women report feeling empowered or more confident after a trip, especially when it involves stepping into new environments and embracing unfamiliarity.
But travel is also a powerful tool for reconnecting with our roots, whether that means visiting the land of our ancestors or exploring the culture that shaped us. Sometimes, traveling to a specific locale can serve as a bridge to understanding who we are and where we come from. For me, my trip to Scotland wasn’t just an exploration of a beautiful country. It was a journey to understand more about myself. As someone with Scottish ancestry, I felt an undeniable pull to visit there. From the moment I stepped off the plane and into the open air of the Inverness runway, I felt an immediate sense of belonging. The landscape, the people, and even the familiar sight of other pale-skinned, red-haired folks around me felt like a piece of the puzzle that had been missing in my life.
At one point during the trip, my partner turned to me and said, “I think you’ve found your people!” And in that moment, I realized how travel can allow us to reconnect with parts of ourselves that may have been dormant. Traveling to places tied to our personal history or heritage can reveal deep emotional connections that strengthen our sense of self.
The Psychological Benefits of Escaping the Everyday
In a world where we're constantly bombarded with information and expectations, the act of escaping, if only for a moment, has immense psychological benefits. Travel gives us the space to disconnect, recharge, and reset our minds. It allows us to step away from the noise and stress of daily life, offering a refreshing break that can lead to greater mental clarity and well-being.
Research shows that travel can reduce stress, increase happiness, and even improve our overall mental health. The change in environment helps us gain perspective, reminding us that there is more to life than our daily worries and challenges. When we return home, we often feel more energized, focused, and ready to take on the world with a fresh outlook.
What is it About Travel That You’re Craving?
So, what about you? What is it that makes you feel drawn to explore new places and experiences? Are you seeking new challenges, a change of scenery, a comfortable place to recharge and reset, or perhaps a deeper connection with yourself? Understanding the psychological forces that fuel your wanderlust can help you plan your trips in a way that maximizes the benefits, whether it’s personal growth, relaxation, or simply the joy of discovery.
If you're feeling ready to explore the world with purpose, let’s turn those cravings into action. I’d love to help you plan a journey that aligns with your travel personality and brings you the experiences you crave. Take a moment to fill out my travel interest form, and we can start designing the perfect trip tailored just for you. Whether you're looking for a spontaneous adventure or a more intentional retreat, let’s make your travel dreams come true. ✨
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Cover art by Alena Ganzhela used under license