Learn how to seamlessly combine work and travel during a working vacation. Enjoy both productivity and adventure without missing out on either.
Ever imagined logging into work from a sunny beach or a quiet mountain retreat? That’s the essence of a working vacation—accomplishing your work tasks while enjoying exciting new locations.
The great news is, with today’s technology, balancing professional duties and personal exploration is more achievable than ever. The flexibility to work from nearly anywhere is no longer a fantasy—it’s a viable option.
But here’s the catch—it takes solid planning! A successful working vacation depends on careful preparation and smart decision-making.
From picking a location with dependable Wi-Fi to setting boundaries to actually enjoy your surroundings, this article offers a roadmap to make your workcation successful.
What is a working vacation?
Picture this: you’re lounging at a beachside café, drink in hand, laptop open, getting things done while enjoying the view. Welcome to the world of working vacations—or “workcations.”
A working vacation is a trip where you mix professional responsibilities with leisure time. It’s a chance to break free from your routine, explore a new place, and still maintain your work output. This idea has gained momentum lately as remote work becomes more common.
You might work during the mornings and explore the city or relax in the afternoon. The trick is creating a routine that keeps you efficient while still making time for fun.
Pros and cons of taking a working vacation
Before deciding to embark on a workcation, it’s important to evaluate its pros and cons to see if it’s the right choice for you.
Advantages of a working vacation
Workcations offer a refreshing change of scenery, which can lead to increased motivation and creative thinking. Shaking up your environment might just boost your performance.
They also let you experience new cultures and destinations without burning through all your vacation days. It’s a win-win for both career and personal development.
Possible downsides of a working vacation
Despite the benefits, workcations come with challenges—most notably, managing work and play.
The temptation to prioritize leisure over work can hurt productivity. Conversely, you might overwork and miss out on the experience.
Logistics like finding a proper workspace, steady internet, and managing time zones can also complicate things. If you’re traveling solo, loneliness might be an issue.
Fortunately, most of these obstacles can be tackled with a bit of foresight and planning.
Planning your ideal working vacation
So you’re ready to give it a try. But where to begin? Like we said earlier, the secret to a rewarding working vacation is all in the planning. Here’s how to make it work:
Picking the right destination
Look into locations with stable internet, affordable living costs, and time zones compatible with your job. Choose a place that balances work-friendly amenities and activities for downtime.
Bali, Portugal, Costa Rica, and Thailand are popular picks, known for their beauty, affordability, and great digital nomad communities. A travel expert, Andre Robles, particularly advised us to consider South American destinations for their better cuisine and leisure activities. However, Bali and Dubai might hold the ace in technology and cityscape adventures. European destinations might also seem a better cultural fit for western travelers.
Ensuring reliable internet
Fast and consistent internet is crucial. Before booking your stay, investigate the local internet quality.
Accommodations designed for remote workers—like co-living spaces—often include high-speed internet and functional workspaces, ideal for digital professionals.
Always have a backup—like a portable hotspot or international data plan—and know where to find coworking spaces.
That can be important because networking physically as well can help build a community while traveling, and might can help combat loneliness and offer valuable advice. Facebook groups and forums like those on Tripadvisor are great for meeting fellow nomads, asking questions, and sharing travel tips. The Worldpackers community also lets users connect through direct messages and group discussions.
Tech and Travel Gear
Traveling while working demands good-quality gear. A reliable laptop is a must, and a sturdy, organized backpack will make life easier on the move.
Opt for waterproof accessories to protect your electronics in unpredictable weather. We can only suggest that you read more about your options regarding that. You should also not forget, that extra batteries and portable chargers are also useful when you’re on long trips without access to power.
Don’t forget an international plug adapter – outlet types vary from country to country, and having one handy ensures you can always charge your devices.
Choosing the right accommodation
Besides Wi-Fi, your accommodation should be comfortable and suitable for work. Look for a quiet place with a dedicated desk, ergonomic seating, and natural light.
Opt for apartments or rentals over standard hotel rooms for more space and a better setup for extended stays.
In a helpful read Andreas Jones referred us to, he pointed out that generally travelers must consider budget-friendly lodging alternatives like hostels, guesthouses, shared apartments, or even camping in a host’s backyard instead of booking a traditional hotel. Although Airbnb can be expensive nowadays, you can still score deals—especially if you let the host know you’re planning a longer stay, which can open the door to discounted rates.
Newer platforms are also entering the scene, offering more competitive prices reminiscent of Airbnb’s earlier days. These can be great options, particularly for groups of friends traveling together.
Other helpful reads:
- How to Hire and Manage Digital Nomads at Your Business
- Top 22 countries for digital nomads
- Digital Nomad vs. Self-Employed Expat: What’s the Difference?
Balancing work and leisure
Remote work offers freedom, but staying focused requires discipline. Create a routine that mimics a traditional office environment to stay on track.
Set work hours, minimize distractions, and avoid working from bed in your pajamas. Use productivity tools like Trello for task management and OffTime to limit phone distractions.
Finding harmony between your job and your vacation is the core of a successful workcation. Here are a few ways to do that:
Building a flexible work schedule
Create a work routine that aligns with your responsibilities and any time zone shifts. Don’t force a full 8-hour grind if you know you’ll be distracted—adjust your hours realistically.
You may also enjoy:
Staying focused while still enjoying your trip
Here are some simple strategies:
- Identify your most productive hours and plan work around them.
- Make a list of your top priorities before traveling.
- Use time-blocking or the Pomodoro methodto stay on task.
- Reduce distractions using digital tools like blockers or “Do Not Disturb” modes.
- Take regular breaks to recharge and appreciate your surroundings.
Notifying your team and clients
Let your colleagues and clients know your travel plans, working hours, and any changes to your availability.
Being upfront helps keep things running smoothly while you’re away.
Setting work and play boundaries
Assign specific hours for work and reserve the rest for fun. Make sure those you’re traveling with respect your schedule.
Once the workday ends, disconnect completely and immerse yourself in your environment. Use tools like Slack’s “Do Not Disturb” and email autoresponders to protect your time.
Making room for relaxation
Don’t treat leisure as an afterthought—schedule it like you would a meeting. Pencil in beach visits, hikes, or cultural excursions.
Here are a few tips:
- Plan ahead: List attractions and activities you want to do and add them to your schedule.
- Take advantage of your location: Explore the beach, museums, or local landmarks.
- Leave space for spontaneity: Don’t overfill your itinerary.
- Immerse yourself: Eat local food, speak the language, and engage in cultural experiences.
- Attend local events: Street markets, festivals, and public celebrations offer great local insight.
How does a working vacation affect your corporate image
Recent data shows a growing trend in blending work and leisure through “work vacations” or “workcations.” According to a 2023 report by Expedia Group, 28% of global workers have taken a workcation, with millennials and remote employees leading the charge. A LinkedIn survey spearheaded by Sumit Gupta found that nearly 65% of remote professionals would consider working from a vacation destination if their job allows it. Additionally, data from the American Psychological Association suggests that workcations can help reduce burnout, with 57% of participants reporting improved mental health after combining work with travel. As more companies adopt flexible work policies, the workcation trend is expected to rise, reshaping traditional boundaries between professional and personal life. Albeit, it is very much different from the nuances of embracing remote work.
FAQs about working vacations
What is a working vacation?
It’s a chance to work remotely while traveling, letting you enjoy new places without falling behind at work.
How do I plan a working vacation?
Choose a location with reliable Wi-Fi, build a realistic work schedule, and make time for fun and relaxation. Balance is key.
What’s an example of a workcation?
Think coding from a café in Lisbon or joining Zoom calls from a cabin in the Alps—working while enjoying a change of scenery.
How long should a working vacation last?
Two weeks is often ideal—it gives you time to settle in and enjoy the place without sacrificing your job performance.
To make your workcation a success, it’s all about striking the right balance—meeting deadlines while creating memorable experiences.
In the end, a working vacation isn’t about escaping your duties. It’s about embracing them in inspiring locations.
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