IF you’re in your 40s, you could be considered the perfect age to embark on an adventure!
According to a recent survey, 42 years old is the perfect age to become adventurous and embrace your youth.
The poll, conducted by Talker Research, saw 36% of respondents saying they’ve become more adventurous as they’ve aged.
However, age appears to be just a number to most, as 83% of people agreed that no matter how old you are, you can always embrace your adventurous side.
The survey, which polled 2,000 Americans in August and was commissioned by Storyteller Overland for American Adventures Month, revealed that many feel stuck in a routine.
In fact, about a quarter of respondents, 27%, admitted they’ve fallen into a rut.
One in four also described their lives as somewhat boring.
This could explain why the average person fantasizes about going on an adventure four times a day, yet only 10% felt they could actually be adventurous in their current daily lives, according to the survey.
The need for adventure seems to be growing, with more than 60% of respondents expressing a desperate need for an escape this year.
However, there are some deterrents.
Daily disheartening emotions such as anxiety, fatigue, and frustration were commonly reported by over 30% of people for each.
This, according to the survey, highlights a collective yearning for something different.
Despite the desire for more adventure, the survey showed that people tend to take fewer trips as they get older.
Still, the number of adventures cited is significant, with most baby boomers, Gen X, and millennials reporting they take four to five trips per year.
So, what fuels this longing for adventure? The top triggers include warm weather (34%), seeing the same mundane surroundings every day (33%), and watching friends and family embark on their own trips (33%).
When asked to define an adventure, 46% described it as an experience outside their daily routine that makes them appreciate life more.
Top 10 adventours destinations
From the poll conducted by Talker Research & commissioned by Storyteller Overland:
- Hawaii – 18%
- California – 16%
- Florida – 14%
- Alaska – 13%
- Colorado – 11%
- New York – 10%
- Arizona – 9%
- Georgia – 7%
- Texas – 7%
- Nevada – 7%
“Looking at the data, it’s clear Americans are craving a break from their everyday routine,” said Summer Trammell, chief engagement officer at Storyteller Overland.
“Adventure doesn’t have to be anything grandiose. There is always a way to tap into that side, whether it’s 20 miles or 2000 miles away from home.”
The survey also explored how respondents prefer to reach their destinations, with 65% opting to drive, while a surprising 25% said they enjoy very long walks.
Partners were the top source of adventure inspiration as 22% were inspired by their significant others to go on these trips.
One in seven, 14%, also preferred taking the scenic route in a van or RV.
When asked about the ideal duration for an adventure, most respondents agreed that six days is just right.
As for distance, the average respondent said they’d be willing to travel quite a ways away, 2,772 miles to be exact, for a break.
Hawaii topped the list of desired destinations at 18%, followed by California (16%), Florida (14%), Alaska (13%), and Colorado (11%).
“Whether you’re dreaming of an adventure thousands of miles away or going somewhere much closer to home, we always encourage people to get out there and explore,” said Trammell. “It’s about the journey, not just the destination.”
The survey also asked respondents for their best advice on living more adventurously.
One respondent offered, “It doesn’t have to be thrilling or dangerous! It can be anything that provides you happiness.”
“Just do it,” another urged.
“You’re not getting any younger, so if you can afford it by making a few sacrifices, just make the plan and do it.”