The habit change potential of vacations

Establishing good habits and breaking bad ones can lead to healthier and more environmentally sustainable behaviours. Vacations offer a unique context for habit change. Yet, research in this area is limited. This paper introduces a new conceptual model for understanding how habits change and persist during vacations: the MOVE-Habit model. Three mixed-method studies show that there is a higher potential for dropping bad habits (e.g. “doom scrolling”; using single-use plastics) than establishing good habits on vacations. Already existing good home habits are likely retained (e.g., recycling; spending time in nature). Seven key themes emerge as drivers and barriers of habit change on vacation. Themes occurring more frequently as drivers include: the change of environment; reflection and a new perspective; improved mood and motivation on vacation; changes of schedule and routine; more time available to oneself. Barriers include: the focus of vacations (especially an enjoyment focus); the shift back home; the temporary nature of vacations. Our research contributes to theories on habit formation and disruption by investigating a new context change: vacations. Practically, the results show that vacations are promising for breaking bad habits but less so for starting good new habits. The seven key themes offer further leverage points. These insights into habit change help inform strategies that use vacations as a springboard for behavioural change.