It's May 2024, and believe it or not, it's not too late to turn those vacation days into unforgettable solo travel escapes. Did you know that with just 14 days of PTO left, you can still travel for 37 days this year? Or with only 10 days, you can still explore for 27 days? Don’t let those precious days go unused!
I get messages all the time asking, "How are you always on holiday while working a full-time job?" Well, I've got you covered with savvy strategies to stretch your PTO like a pro.
Tip #1 - Take a Red-Eye on Friday After Work
When traveling internationally, I always hop on a red-eye flight right after work on Friday. This way, you’ll land at your destination early Saturday morning, giving you a full weekend to soak in the sights and vibes. It’s the perfect strategy to squeeze every bit of adventure out of your weekends without burning through your PTO.
Tip #2 - Combine PTO with Holidays
Next on our list of PTO travel hacks is combining your PTO with holidays. Think about it – by strategically planning your days off around long weekends and public holidays, you can stretch your vacation time without burning through your days off. It’s a total game-changer for maximizing your travel adventures.
Let’s break down the (American) holidays left in 2024 to maximize your PTO. By strategically combining your days off with these holidays, you can turn a few PTO days into an international dream solo travel getaway:
July 2024: 4th of July Holiday
Travel Dates: Friday 6/28/2024 - Sunday 7/7/2024
10 Travel Days
4 PTO days (July 1, 2, 3, 5)
September 2024: Labor Day Holiday
Travel Dates: Friday 8/30/2024 - Sunday 9/8/2024
10 Travel Days
4 PTO days (September 3, 4, 5, 6)
November 2024: Thanksgiving Holiday
Travel Dates: Friday 11/22/2024 - Sunday 12/1/2024
10 Travel Days
3 PTO Days (November 25, 26, 27)
December 2024: Christmas Holiday (Short Option)
Travel Dates: Friday 12/20/2024 - Sunday 12/29/2024
10 Travel Days
3 PTO Days (December 23, 26, 27)
December 2024: Christmas Holiday (Mid Option)
Travel Dates: Friday 12/20/2024 - 1/1/2025
13 Travel Days
5 PTO days (December 23, 26, 27, 30, 31)
December 2024: Christmas & New Year's (Extended)
Travel Dates: Friday 12/20/2024 - January 5, 2025
17 Travel Days
7 PTO days (December 23, 26, 27, 30, 31 & January 2, 3)
You can mix and match the above options to really maximize those paid time off. Let’s look at a few combinations of solo travel options:
While we're already halfway through 2024, it's the perfect time to start thinking about 2025. To make the most of your PTO next year, plan ahead and combine holidays throughout the year. This way, you can enjoy multiple getaways throughout the year without drawing too much attention from the bosses.
Studies consistently show that taking a break from your daily routine to travel or simply relax leads to significant improvements in mental clarity and productivity. It’s a crucial element in boosting creativity, enhancing problem-solving skills, and achieving a balanced, fulfilling life. So, make the most of your PTO and watch how it transforms both your personal and professional life. Get your calendar out and start plotting your 2025 adventures now using my holiday hack, so you can travel smart and often!
In 2018, I took my first solo trip to Italy, igniting my wanderlust and love for new travel experiences. It also helped me get over my fear of solo travel. Like many I juggle a 9-to-5 job in Atlanta, and have mastered the art of travel with limited time off. If you are visiting a destination for the first time, say hello Zingaro Anthology's simple, carefully crafted destination guides offering straight to the point tips on where to stay, play and party at hotspots around the globe.
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