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New survey reveals average person dreams of new adventures four times a day!

NEW YORK — Is 40 really the new 30? For those who love adventure, the answer is yes! A new survey finds that 42 is the perfect age to embark on an adventure, with over one-third of Americans (36%) saying they have an increased sense of adventure as they’ve grown older.

The Storyteller Overland-commissioned study, conducted by Talker Research, provides a fascinating glimpse into the nation’s adventurous spirit. The survey, which polled 2,000 Americans, argues that age is just a number, as the majority of respondents (83%) agreed that you can be adventurous at any stage of life.

“Looking at the data, it’s clear Americans are craving a break from their everyday routine,” says Summer Trammell, chief engagement officer at Storyteller Overland, in a statement. “Adventure doesn’t have to be anything grandiose. There is always a way to tap into that side whether it’s 20 miles or 2,000 miles away from home.”

The survey revealed that over a quarter of Americans (27%) feel they’ve fallen into a rut, with one in four respondents admitting their life is a bit boring. In fact, the average respondent fantasizes about going on an adventure four times every day, but only 10% felt they could be adventurous in their current life on any given day.

Interestingly, the data showed that respondents take fewer adventures as they get older, but the number of trips they take is still significant. The majority of baby boomers, Gen Xers, and millennials take four to five trips per year.

When asked how they’d define “an adventure,” most described it as anything outside of their daily routine and an experience (46%) that makes them appreciate life more (30%). The top three things that stir adventurous urges are a dose of warm weather (34%), seeing the same mundane surroundings every day (33%), and seeing friends and family go on trips (33%).

vacation travel
The average American fantasizes about going on an adventure four times every day. (Photo by Asad Photo Maldives from Pexels)

The findings also shed light on how Americans prefer to make it to their destination, with the majority preferring to drive (65%) and a surprising number opting for very long walks (25%). One in seven (14%) want to enjoy the scenic route and prefer a van or RV as their mode of transportation.

As for the perfect adventure, most respondents said it should last six days, with the average person willing to travel upwards of 2,700 miles for a break. Hawaii, California, Florida, Alaska, and Colorado were the top destinations on their bucket lists.

The survey also uncovered heartwarming advice from respondents on how to live more adventurously.

“It doesn’t have to be thrilling or dangerous! It can be anything that provides you happiness,” one respondent says.

“Just do it. You’re not getting any younger, so if you can afford it by making a few sacrifices, just make the plan and do it. My best adventures were solo trips, so don’t wait on anyone. Rely on yourself,” another traveler urges.

Survey methodology

Talker Research surveyed 2,000 general population Americans; the survey was commissioned by Storyteller Overland and administered and conducted online by Talker Research between July 1 and July 8, 2024.

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11 Comments

  1. Sanchez says:

    When I get bored, rarely and I am retired, I go to a hobby. Does no one have hobbies any longer?

  2. dammitt says:

    When you lack the imagination and desire to do anything new, productive, or creative, you get bored with your life. Try taking some personal responsibility for yourself and things will improve immediately.

    1. Sanchez says:

      Great advice! I hope you raise children.

  3. Yankee says:

    There is what’s known as “the luxury of boredom”. I’m concerned that this will radically change within a single generation…
    Tough times create strong men,
    Strong men create good times,
    Good times create weak men,
    Weak men create tough times.

  4. WJM980 says:

    Enjoy this life while you can. There’s nothing after this.

    1. Sanchez says:

      Sure there is.

  5. Winston Orwell says:

    When I was a kid, someone told me that only boring people are bored. If youre bored, youre not doing it right.

  6. Sanchez says:

    Happiness is not having what you want. Happiness is wanting what you have.

    1. Salgado says:

      Agreed. Being grateful and showing gratitude to the things we already have is a good start to overall happiness. Although, what if the person felt they had nothing to begin with?

      1. Sanchez says:

        Most have something they can feel good about in their lives. Another of my life mottos, we may not be happy with what we have gotten out of life, but we should be thankful for what we have escaped.

  7. Aaron says:

    We’re bored because we can’t afford anything