Perceptions and use of travel time in Switzerland: Activities, transport modes, and perceived usefulness

• Survey of 2,056 people residing in Switzerland on their travel time use. • Activities during travel vary significantly according to transport mode. • Public transport enables a more active, enjoyable use of time compared to car driving. • Train passengers report the highest perceived usefulness of travel time. As mobility is an essential part of modern life, people spend a substantial amount of time travelling. This paper investigates how people travelling in Switzerland use and evaluate their travel time, using a quantitative online survey ( N = 2,056). While considering a representative distribution of trip purposes and a broad variety of transport modes, the survey focused on a recent trip made by participants. Participants reported their activities while travelling and evaluated the usefulness of their travel time. Findings show that most travellers did not perceive their travel time as being wasted. Instead, many used it to relax, consume media, reflect, or engage socially – activities that varied substantially depending on the transport mode. For example, passengers on long-distance trains were more likely to read, work, or engage in digital media. Car drivers reported focusing on the ride or listening to audio content. Walking and cycling were often associated with physical activity and personal reflection. Regression analyses further revealed that trip duration, transport mode, and activity type significantly influence how travellers evaluate the usefulness of their travel time. Perceived usefulness of travel time was highest among train passengers and lowest among car users and cyclists, highlighting the importance of attentional demands.