Longitudinal analysis of happiness changes in nature-based travel

Travel is widely regarded as a significant contributor to happiness. Although previous tourism research has examined the relationship between travel and happiness, most studies have primarily relied on subjective, post-travel evaluations to assess travelers' happiness. By contrast, this study adopts a longitudinal approach to capture the dynamic nature of happiness throughout the travel experience. The study uses a combination of methodologies, including a longitudinal questionnaire-based survey and heart rate variability measurements. It investigates the physiological and psychological states of happiness before, during, and after nature-based travel. By tracking changes across the travel continuum, this study develops an integrated model of travel happiness, emphasizing changes at each stage of the journey and providing insights into the link between travel and happiness. • Analyzing changes in happiness before, during, and after nature-based travel. • Utilizing heart rate variability to examine happiness at multiple travel stages. • Conducting questionnaire-based surveys and in-depth interviews to provide insights. • Providing empirical evidence on the impact of travel activities on happiness. • Offering implications for future planning of travel programs to enhance happiness.