Maximizing Your Vacation Days in 2024
If you’re an American traveler, you’ve likely done this sort of calendar math, spotting where all the paid holidays fall this year and figuring out how to combine them with your own limited paid time off (PTO).
Moreover, there are countless videos on TikTok and Instagram showing individuals who have done these calculations for you. However, now that you know you have an extended period of time off, what do you do with it?
We’re here to help! Using the formula “PTO + budget + crowds = where/when do I go,” we did some complex calculations for you to come up with trip suggestions that would maximize your PTO while considering off-peak spending and favorable weather conditions. Consequently, we hope you’ll discover incredible destinations you may have not considered or experience something truly epic.
President’s Day: February 19, 2024
The recommendation: If you get President’s Day off, take off February 20–23 to net a total of nine days off.
Where you should go: It’s a wonderful time to explore Lisbon. Although the weather isn’t summer-like, it’s sunny enough to enjoy outdoor tours with a light jacket while dining at remarkable restaurants.
Additionally, summer in Argentina is in full swing, making it the perfect time to travel south and experience the vibrancy of Buenos Aires, the natural beauty of Patagonia, or sip your way through the vineyards of Mendoza.
If you have more time to spare, consider spending nine vacation days to net 16 straight days off. You can explore New Zealand and Australia for an unforgettable adventure.
Memorial Day: May 27, 2024
The recommendation: If you ask for May 28–31 off, you’ll have a total of nine days off.
Where you should go: This strategy is perfect for those considering a trip along the Camino de Santiago through Portugal and Spain. With Memorial Day off, it’s possible to secure 16 days off with just nine vacation days used. This is a fantastic time to journey to Europe before the summer crowds. Consider heading to Croatia to savor the Mediterranean waters without the overwhelming tourists.
Juneteenth: June 19, 2024
The recommendation: If you get Juneteenth off, take PTO for June 20–21 to enjoy a five-day trip. For an extended getaway, take off June 17–18, resulting in a total of nine days off.
Where you should go: If adventurous outdoor activities excite you, Glacier National Park in Montana is worth your visit. There’s a brief window each year around mid-May to late June where the roads are closed to vehicles but open for cyclists. For safety, it’s best to join a tour group to navigate wildlife encounters safely, especially in this bear-populated area.
Fourth of July: July 4, 2024
The recommendation: For an extended Fourth of July celebration, take PTO from July 1–3 and July 5 to enjoy a full nine-day vacation.
Where you should go: Island hopping in eastern Canada presents a splendid way to celebrate. Enjoy the charm of Prince Edward Island and relish its famous oysters, then venture to Nova Scotia to discover the stunning Cape Breton coastline.
Labor Day: September 2, 2024
The recommendation: If you take off September 3–6, you’ll achieve nine straight days off while benefiting from shoulder season pricing.
Where you should go: This period is ideal for a Utah National Parks road trip as the summer crowds dissipate. Start your adventure at Capitol Reef National Park before exploring the other magnificent national and state parks in Utah. Alternatively, consider visiting Europe to access warm weather in Greece, Italy, and Croatia without the peak tourist rush.
Fall Break: October and November 2024
The recommendation: If Indigenous Peoples’ Day is recognized at your workplace, consider taking October 15–28 for a total of nine days off. For Veterans Day, having November 12–15 off will convert four vacation days into nine days off.
Travel during this time can lead to significant savings due to lower airfare and accommodation costs. Southern Europe remains enticing as the weather cools. Places like Italy, Portugal, Spain, and Greece are delightful for travel during this transitional season.
Thanksgiving: November 28, 2024
The recommendation: Utilize four PTO days (November 25–27 and 29) for nine days off, or plan for longer durations for extended trips.
Where you should go: Traveling during Thanksgiving can be rewarding, particularly if you go international, as domestic airfares typically soar. Consider visiting Christmas markets in Europe as they open or traveling to Asia where the rainy season concludes. If you missed out earlier in the year, you can always vacation to Australia or New Zealand by strategically using your PTO.
The Christmas–New Year Holiday
The recommendation: Take December 23–24, 26–27, and 30–31 off, transforming your six vacation days into 12 days of holiday bliss. Add January 2–3, and you’ll have 16 days of travel freedom with eight days off.
Where you should go: This period can be quite pricey, making trips during this time more complex. If you’re looking for something extraordinary, consider a trip to Antarctica. Alternatively, opt for an unforgettable Northern Lights experience in places like Tromsø or explore the Caribbean for an exciting New Year’s Eve celebration.
