Why Trying Something New on Vacation Could Be the Best Part of Your Trip

When was the last time you tried something completely new? Whether it was learning to surf, taking a cooking class, or signing up for an activity you never imagined yourself doing, stepping outside your comfort zone may be more rewarding than you think.

According to Club Med’s newly released The Art of Free Time Report 2026, 88% of surveyed Americans experienced at least one positive outcome the last time they challenged themselves to try something new.

The findings reveal that 52% had a better time than expected, while 43% learned a new skill and 41% gained self-confidence. Another 34% discovered something new about themselves, and 29% made new friends.

The research also suggests that vacations may offer an ideal opportunity to embrace new experiences. According to the report’s U.S. findings, 81% of Americans say they’re likely to try an activity they’ve never done before on their next vacation.

But despite that enthusiasm, everyday responsibilities often get in the way.

In the broader study of U.S. and Canadian adults, 87% of respondents said obligations take priority over activities they want to do for enjoyment at least some of the time. Another 81% said they missed the sense of wonder they experienced as children more than the amount of free time they had growing up.

Club Med calls this disconnect the “Joy Gap,” describing the difference between wanting more opportunities for enjoyment and actually making room for them.

The report also found that 80% of North Americans have avoided trying an activity because of the potential cost of lessons, equipment, or other expenses, particularly when they’re unsure whether they’ll enjoy it.

That hesitation may help explain why vacations are an appealing time to experiment. Travelers can try unfamiliar activities without necessarily committing to expensive equipment or long-term lessons.

And travelers may be increasingly interested in freedom over rigid itineraries.

The report found that 91% of North Americans believe luxury travel means having the freedom to do what they want, when they want, rather than simply enjoying fine dining or being pampered. Meanwhile, 74% said they prefer vacations that leave room for spontaneous activities and exploration.

Another 52% reported discovering a new hobby or activity while traveling that they continued after returning home.

Club Med’s research was conducted by Wakefield Research among 2,000 adults ages 21 and older across the United States and Canada between September 11 and September 23, 2026. The online survey included 1,000 respondents from each country.

While the self-reported findings don’t establish that trying something new directly causes greater happiness or confidence, they suggest that unfamiliar experiences can come with unexpected rewards.

So the next time you’re on vacation, consider saying yes to that surfing lesson, hiking excursion, or activity you’ve never tried before. You might return home with more than just photos and souvenirs.

This story was originally published by Men’s Journal on Nov 14, 2026, where it first appeared in the Travel section. Add Men’s Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.