Introduction

Planning shorter and more frequent vacations of three to four days is becoming increasingly popular as people realize the benefits of this type of break from work. Sometimes when we plan a two- or three-week vacation, I come home tired and feel like I need a vacation to recover from my vacation! I’m pretty sure I’m not alone here. The effort it takes to plan an extended trip can be tiring, even for those of us who enjoy planning. This is especially true if we are flying internationally and want to travel to multiple countries. We love these trips but have found that taking shorter and more frequent vacations may actually help us relax and combat stress better. And at this point in our lives, that is what we are looking for – enhanced well-being.

Benefits of Shorter and More Frequent Vacations

Planning shorter and more frequent vacations have a number of advantages over traditionally long and infrequent vacations. The most obvious benefit of this type of vacation is that it can help reduce stress and burnout. Taking a few days off to relax and recharge can be just what is needed to avoid feeling overwhelmed. This can be especially important for those with busy and stressful jobs. In addition, shorter breaks can help to maintain motivation and productivity.  Taking regular breaks can help to ensure you are rested and ready to tackle new challenges when you return to work.

Shorter vacations can also be better for your finances. Since shorter vacations tend to cost less than longer vacations they can make it easier to fit a vacation into a tight budget. In addition, they can be easier to plan since they don’t require as much advance notice.  Less hassle and a smaller chunk of time off work can be a win-win.

Tips for Making the Most of Shorter Vacations 

1. Leave your work at home. No files, no folders, no briefcase, and if at all possible no laptop. If you work while on vacation, you will not reap the benefits described above. Your shorter vacation will fly by anyway, and if you spend your time mostly working, even just checking emails, the time will feel shorter. When I’ve done this, I found myself angry for having “wasted” my vacation. Don’t let the same thing happen to you.
2. Prioritize your activities. First, identify what goals you want to accomplish on this short vacation. Maybe it is lounging by the pool or ocean reading a book. Perhaps your goal is to enjoy high tea in Chicago or a walk along Newport Coast in California. You have a limited amount of time so know in advance what your main goals are and prioritize your activities accordingly. It is also important not to feel like you have to do and see everything. This is one thing I like about shorter vacations. I don’t feel pressured to do it all. If my main goal is to relax and rejuvenate, I might spend two nights in a nice hotel and go home. If I need to feel sand in my toes, I plan a beach vacation. Planning a three- or four-day trip to Cancun or Los Cabos may be just what the doctor ordered!
3. Make the most of local attractions. Once you’ve identified your priorities, research what the area has to offer. This will help you make the most of your time and plan your itinerary accordingly. You will also want to take advantage of discounts. Many local attractions offer discounts or packages for visitors. Be sure to check out the local visitor center for information on any discounts. Also, ask locals or friends for their recommendations. We’ve found this to be the best way to see and do things we might not have otherwise considered.
4. Take advantage of travel deals. I am a big fan of Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights). Here they offer three levels of membership, including a free option. If you have some flexibility in travel dates and even destinations, you can find really good deals. This is harder to do for people like me who like to plan my vacations out a year in advance, but I still use it because it is a great resource. I also like to set up a price tracker in Google Flights. I have one currently set up to watch for flights to New York City and am notified when prices go up or down. Again, another great resource. 

Conclusion

Planning shorter and more frequent vacations has a number of health and financial benefits. Identify the type of short vacation you want to take. Decide on a goal. Keep it simple. Don’t plan too much. Leave your work at home. Set reminders to plan to use your vacation time. Don’t leave unused vacation days on the table!