Why Adventure Travel and Wanderlust Destinations are More Accessible Than Ever Before

The way we travel has changed in recent years. The global pandemic was obviously a major factor, but other financial constraints and more social awareness over environmental issues has resulted in a more savvy consumer looking to make the most of their holidays. The term ‘holiday’ has become something of a misnomer itself with remote working and life experiences changing what we typically assume people want from their time away from home.

Martine Langerak, Head of Communications for Sunweb Group, said: ‘After a difficult few years, the travel industry is set to explode in 2023 and we are seeing an increasing number of people seek out an active or adventure holiday. Thrill-seeking holiday-goers are looking to make up for lost time and with the winter season well and truly here, ski resorts are seeing a pick-up in adrenaline junkies, both experienced, and beginner.’

Ski holidays along with cruises were too high profile casualties during the pandemic. Some people worried that these types of breaks would never come back, but the evidence shows that both industries have bounced back stronger than ever. We’ve launched our own collection of curated sailing trips in part due to an appetite for getting away with small groups following years of isolation.

‘When it comes to the appeal of holidays focusing on a specific activity such as skiing, or snowboarding, people want time to recharge and push the pause button,’ Langerak adds. ‘You can try resorts such as La Plagne, Alpe D’huez or Les Arcs if you are finding your feet on skis or a board for the first time as they offer a number of wide, green and blue runs for practicing turning safely.’

The appetite for adventure and wanderlust is nothing new. Exotic destinations such as Bali have always been popular but are now being framed as places that you can reach on a budget.

All-inclusive holidays remain a cheap way of getting away, but the limits these types of experiences offer tend not to appeal to modern travellers. There’s a place for simply sitting on a beach with a good book for a week, but what about doing more when visiting a new destination? Our collection of Epic Trips and Mini Trips have full itineraries that let you explore with a seasoned Local Insider with the flexibility of extending your break to include downtime if you want. With activities and transfers taken care of costs are kept low but you still get a premium experience.

If you search for your dream destination today you’ll find more flights and places to stay on offer. This competition has resulted in a general reduction in costs, although it’s fair to say recent economic concerns have seen some expenses increase.

If long flights and sun lounging aren’t your idea of heaven, then a short trip to a winter wonderland might just tick both boxes for adventure and wanderlust. Iceland is understandably at the top of many people’s bucket list and is conveniently located between Europe and America. Heading to such a cold destination does mean you need to have appropriate attire, but there are options to get fully kitted out without draining your account.

Mountain Warehouse has a variety of outerwear suitable for all conditions that also look good. These outfits are also practical enough to wear at home, and given adverse conditions across Europe and North America you can also have something to wear when you get off the plane and head into work.

Adventure travel becoming more affordable means that savvy travellers can enhance their experiences with some careful planning. With a variety of typically ‘wanderlust’ destinations also now actively reaching out to potential visitors, all you have to do is pick where you want to go and commit to making the most of your time off in the near future.