The study addresses the context and the situations that lead to trip decisions. With the help of the question "How come...?", 256 respondents were able to report on decisions regarding a total of 512 multi-day and 256 day trips. Clearly identifiable instances indicate that travel decisions can be ex-plained. The results refute numerous theories and concepts and point to the specificity of travel as a phenomenon on its own. Travel decisions cannot be predicted but can nevertheless be easily de-scribed on the basis of instances. In addition to providing practical insights, the study also provides important information on a new methodology for researching the context and the situation in decision making.