Tips to keep traveling -- even with no more vacation days

The writer snowboarding in Vail.

By Kate Schwartz

About 34 percent of Americans don’t take all the vacation time they earn each year, a recent survey showed. I am not in that 34 percent — not by a long shot. In fact, I am currently in the negative for vacation days, yet still planning my next adventure.

This year, in anticipation of an eight-month Chicago winter, I planned my sunny escape route well in advance. Before the sub-zero temperatures could get me down, I boarded a plane to the Middle East and spent ten days basking in the desert sun. A few months later, I took a five-day spring skiing excursion to Vail, which is why now, in July, I don’t have a vacation day to my name. So what is a travel-obsessed girl like me to do?

In the words of Tim Gunn, I “make it work!” How?, you may ask. Allow me to explain.

Chase the sun: Try grabbing an after-work flight and heading west. If you pass enough time zones, you might just make it off the plane in time for a late dinner.

Start early: This may give you a horrible case of the Mondays, but try catching a super-early flight Monday morning. For example, a 6 a.m. flight from New York gets me back to my Chicago office by 9 a.m. (albeit a tad sleepy).

Capitalize on holidays: This is self explanatory, but pay attention to your company’s holiday schedule — you might discover some extra days off.

Extend yourself: Taking a business vacation to a sunny spot? Stay the weekend. In fact, why not bring your family along? They can hang by the pool while you are in meetings, andyou can spend the nights and weekends relaxing together.

Take another look: For weekends that I simply don’t have the budget or desire to jump on a plane, I look for local travel options. Live in a city? I bet somewhere nearby you can find a place to hike. Live in the suburbs? Rent a hotel room in the city for a taste of the action.

If all else fails, accept your vacation day deficit and just chill. Spend some quality time with friends, family, or on the couch. A little rest and relaxation does wonders in keeping you healthy and prepared for your next travel adventure.

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Kate Schwartz is a marketing coordinator for Orbitz. When she’s not searching for the best travel deals, she’s out taking advantage of them! From hiking the Rockies to lounging on the beaches of Barcelona, Kate is always looking for adventure.

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