As searches for winter travel surge, experts are encouraging remote workers to embrace mobility as a strategy to counter the winter blues.
Search interest in winter travel has risen 165% over the past three months. With Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) on the rise, experts suggest that winter travel and mobility-focused working could play a vital role in supporting the UK’s remote workforce.
Seasonal affective disorder in the UK
Around 2 million people in the UK are affected by SAD each year, with symptoms often peaking between December and February. Specialists say reduced daylight, limited movement, and repetitive indoor environments contribute to seasonal declines in mood and productivity.
SAD, a subtype of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), affects between 0.5% and 2.4% of the population—roughly 268,000–1.6 million individuals—according to NHS and psychiatric research estimates. Broader data indicate up to one in six people experience milder winter blues, which can intensify challenges for those in hybrid or fully remote roles.
Expert guidance on travel and well-being
Dave Williams, specialist at Kent motorhome company Choose Leisure, has released travel-focused well-being guidance. He explains why working from varied locations, such as coastal viewpoints or forest campsites, may be one of the most effective yet overlooked tools during winter.
Williams, managing director at Choose Leisure Limited, highlights how motorhome and campervan setups can facilitate flexible, nature-integrated workspaces. He explains: “Travel has a profound impact on how we feel, especially in winter.”
“Remote workers often stay inside the same four walls for months at a time, which is the perfect environment for SAD to take hold. Even short trips or micro-adventures can dramatically increase daylight exposure, boost motivation, and reduce the emotional fatigue that builds up through the darker months.”
“We’re seeing a growing number of people exploring flexible, mobile ways of working, from quick ‘work getaways’ to setting up temporary desks in scenic spots. Mobility isn’t just a lifestyle trend anymore; for many, it’s becoming a practical mental health strategy.”
“Coastal areas, national parks, forest trails, and lakesides are all-natural mood-lifters. When people rethink the idea of a ‘remote office’ and allow themselves to work from these environments, we see real improvements in well-being, clarity, and connection.”
Travel trends and timing
The guidance coincides with rising travel trends. Searches for workcation in the UK have risen nearly 5000% over five years, with 46% of office workers already having taken one. Surveys from Nomad and ABTA show 77% of UK residents plan winter trips in 2025, driven by sun, family reunions, or snowy escapes despite economic pressures.
Domestic getaways, including rural breaks in the Peak District or Gower Peninsula, are also increasingly popular. Mintel reports that 84% of travellers are taking more holidays this year compared to previous years.
Benefits of mobile working
Mobile working—including campervan setups, portable offices, and flexible travel arrangements—has several benefits:
- Increases exposure to natural light
- Provides access to green and blue spaces
- Breaks up the monotony of home working
- Reduces loneliness
- Promotes connection with nature
Research shows that natural light regulates circadian rhythms, reducing SAD symptoms like low energy and irritability. Time spent near coasts or lakes can lower stress and enhance mood. Even brief outdoor breaks increase serotonin, countering winter-related hypersomnia and carb cravings.
Expert-approved travel strategies
Experts have shared practical, low-cost strategies for remote workers to reduce winter symptoms:
- Move toward natural light: Park or position your workspace where sunlight is strongest.
- Take micro-trips: Even a half-day drive to a scenic location can interrupt SAD triggers.
- Incorporate nature: Choose routes offering coastal, woodland, or lakeside access.
- Use daylight or SAD lamps: Ideal when travelling north or working early mornings.
- Reframe commutes as well-being routes: Walk, cycle, or explore local paths before logging on.
- Break up the day outdoors: Take lunch near a viewpoint or in a natural setting.
- Create winter travel routines: Plan weekly or fortnightly escapes to boost daylight and fresh air.
- Stay socially connected: Travel with friends or connect with fellow travellers to reduce isolation.
Looking ahead
As hybrid working evolves, experts believe winter mobility will become increasingly common among workers seeking balance. Deloitte forecasts that 73% of UK adults plan holiday travel this season, and interest in wellness-focused domestic tourism, such as cottage stays and slow travel, continues to rise.
For those affected by SAD, consulting a general practitioner remains essential, but verified travel strategies provide a proactive path to improving well-being during the winter months.
