Profiling Undirected Travelers and Their Environments

This technical report examines undirected travel (UT), defined as travel undertaken for its own sake, and its relationship with the built environment. It highlights the significance of UT in transport research, which has often overlooked this type of travel despite its potential benefits for well-being. The study utilizes the 2023 ODiN dataset, which includes 53,049 respondents and 181,717 trips, to analyze the characteristics of UT compared to directed travel. It identifies traveler profiles and the influence of built environment factors on UT behavior. Findings indicate that UT is generally longer in duration but shorter in distance, predominantly occurring on foot. The report also notes demographic trends, revealing that younger adults and larger households are more likely to engage in UT, while employed individuals are less likely to do so. The analysis suggests the need for transport planning frameworks to incorporate UT, emphasizing its role in promoting sustainable mobility and enhancing quality of life.