Do you wish you could see the world but feel like your full-time job is preventing you from making it happen? You’re not alone—working a job that keeps you chained to a desk can be even more frustrating when all you want to do is spend time exploring new places. Fortunately, with a little bit of planning and creativity, it’s possible to fit travel into even the busiest work schedule. Here are a few of our best tips.
Extend Long Weekends
Take advantage of any long weekends your schedule may already include. For example, you could leave for a trip on a Thursday evening after work, use a vacation day on Friday, and return on Monday when the office is already closed. You’ll be able to save vacation days for longer trips while still enjoying 3 full days in your destination.
Use Your Vacation Days
Speaking of vacation days, don’t let yours go to waste! A 2018 study by the US Travel Association and Oxford Economics found that about 55% of Americans don’t use all of the paid time off that their jobs offer. When you do use your vacation days, be sure to plan a schedule and do some research in advance so that you can make the most of your time in a new location.
Stay Close to Home
Don’t overlook opportunities to “travel” in your own backyard. Taking weekend or day trips to places like cities, parks, and beaches can often be just as enjoyable as exploring a foreign destination. Try to see things from a tourist’s perspective by asking for recommendations and checking out places you’ve never been before.