In today’s fast-paced work environment, taking time off can often feel like an unattainable luxury. But utilizing your paid time off (PTO) is crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance, reducing stress, and boosting overall productivity.
Planning a trip not only gives you something to look forward to, but it also ensures you make the most of your time away from work.
From destination research and financial planning to packing checklists and cultural preparation, use this guide to plan your next adventure and enjoy your PTO to the fullest.
Overview
Destination Research
Destination Guides: Lonely Planet Destination Guides is packed with insider tips, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path recommendations for both domestic and international destinations.
Pet-Friendly Travel Resources: Bring Fido offers a wealth of resources for travelers with pets, including pet-friendly accommodations and transportation options, ensuring your four-legged companion can join in on the fun.
Volunteer Opportunities: Go Overseas has volunteer opportunities and service trips that allow you to give back to communities worldwide and make a positive impact abroad.
Planning Tools + Resources
Financial Tools: Mint + Travel Budget Planner help you track your expenses, set savings goals, and stay on budget with customizable templates that cover every aspect of your trip.
Weather Forecasting Tools: The Weather Channel gives up-to-date weather forecasts and climate guides to help you plan your trips throughout the year.
Travel Apps: TripIt helps you simplify your travel experience – from organizing itineraries to navigating new cities.
Bonus: Out-of-Office Planning Tool
Use our free work coverage plan template to document PTO plans, resource + tools, and work coverage details.
Travel Preparation + Logistics
Packing Checklists: Travel Packing List offers customizable packing lists that ensure you never forget the essentials, whether you’re headed to the beach, mountains, or city.
Visa and Passport Info: U.S. Department’s International Travel page details visa requirements and application processes for different countries.
Currency Converters: XE Currency Converter gives access to real-time currency exchange rates and valuable money-saving tips to ensure you get the most out of your trip.
Language + Culture Preparation
Language Learning Resources: Duolingo allows you to master essential phrases and language-specific travel vocabulary to enhance your travel experience and connect with locals.
Language Exchange Programs: Tandem connects you with native speakers worldwide and enhances your language skills while sharing your travel experiences.
Cultural Etiquette Guides: Culture Smart! contains invaluable insights into cultural etiquette and norms to ensure respectful and rewarding interactions during your travels.
Safety + Health
Travel Safety Tips: CDC Travel Health Notices gives you access to essential travel safety tips and emergency contact information for various destinations, including links to official health advisories.
Health and Wellness Resources: CDC Travelers’ Health keeps you updated on vaccination requirements, medical assistance abroad, and general health and wellness tips to ensure a healthy and enjoyable travel experience.
Accessibility Resources: Mobility International USA contains resources for travelers with disabilities, including accessible accommodations, attractions, and tips for navigating travel with mobility aids.
Travel Inspiration
Podcast: National Geographic’s Best of the World: Where to Travel in 2024 and Beyond is full of insider insights and expert recommendations to inspire your next adventure
Travel-Themed Cooking Classes + Recipes: TasteAtlas brings the taste of travel into your home with travel-themed cooking classes and authentic recipes featuring dishes from around the globe.
Subscription Boxes for Kids: Atlas Crate provides immersive, hands-on STEAM activities that connect kids creatively and intellectually with cultures beyond their own.
