We hear about it regularly (or almost), but what exactly are “extreme day trips”?
There are things we hear about more or less regularly without knowing—or having forgotten—what they actually mean. Today we’re taking a closer look at a phenomenon that’s gaining traction in certain circles, though not yet among the general public, known as “extreme day trips.” So what does this mean exactly?
International Travel in Under 24 Hours
Let’s start by understanding this expression “extreme day trips,” which we could simply translate as “lightning trips.” Because that’s exactly what it is—the idea of flying abroad for just one day, without spending a single night away from home. This new travel trend is slowly developing thanks partly to social media, particularly among young urban adults in regions with plenty of low-cost airlines. That obviously includes the US and Europe.
The concept couldn’t be simpler: you take a very early morning flight to a city two or three hours maximum from your departure point, spend the day exploring and wandering around, then catch a late evening flight back home to sleep in your own bed. All of this in under 24 hours. Surprising… in every sense of the word.
For enthusiasts of this practice, extreme day trips primarily represent an economical option that makes it easier to take advantage of the best low-cost airline deals, where you travel without luggage and most importantly save on those hotel nights that often blow your budget in major cities. Additionally, some see it as a challenge and an adventure in finding the destination and especially organizing their day on-site. It certainly provides plenty of content for social media by multiplying destinations and experiences.
But on the other hand, as you might expect, the practice is also widely criticized, starting with the environmental impact that all these one-day round trips by plane involve. Not to mention that this movement, if it were to spread, would only artificially amplify the overtourism that many major cities around the world already experience. To this we could add, in another area, this aspect of “pointless challenge” whose only purpose would ultimately be to show off on social media in hopes of feeling relevant. Perhaps for many people, this is undoubtedly the primary goal of the exercise…
Hello! I’m Ben Fischer, a travel enthusiast who has journeyed far and wide to bring you unique and inspiring stories. Each destination is a new adventure for me, a chance to explore diverse cultures and share unforgettable experiences.
In my articles, I take you beyond mere descriptions of places. I share the encounters, special moments, and anecdotes that make each trip unique. My writing is an invitation to see the world through my eyes, blending practical tips with personal insights.
As a lifelong traveler, I approach each journey with respect and curiosity, eager to uncover the stories hidden in every corner of the globe.
