The impact of travel on perceived activity performance

Many studies in the past two decades have explored travel satisfaction and its determinants. However, how travel satisfaction impacts emotions after trips and the performance of activities upon arrival have only been explored to a limited extent. In this study – using data from online surveys – we analyse travel satisfaction of 2000+ students and staff of University College London travelling to campus, and how this influences the emotions upon arrival and the perceived performance of the first activity after arriving on campus. Additionally, we explore how trip characteristics (e.g., mode, duration, weather) influence the above three elements. Results from one-way ANOVAs and a structural equation model show that there are strong spill-over effects of trip satisfaction on the emotions and activity performance upon arrival. We also found that the used travel mode and trip duration influence trip satisfaction, emotion upon arrival and perceived activity performance. However, their effects on emotions and activity performance are mainly indirect via travel satisfaction. Results indicate that active and short trips will not only improve travel satisfaction, but that they can also positively influence people's mood and the performance of activities. Hence, transport planning concepts stimulating short/active trips have the potential to improve emotional well-being and – through better perceived activities – overall life satisfaction.