How to Take Advantage of Federal Holidays for Travel in 2024
Federal holidays are a golden opportunity for travelers. With extra days off work and a long weekend at your disposal, these holidays offer the perfect chance to embark on memorable adventures. In this travel blog post, we’ll explore strategies to help you make the most of federal holidays and transform them into unforgettable travel experiences.
Combine Holidays with Paid Time Off (PTO):
The key to making the most of federal holidays is early planning. Federal holidays often create extended weekends, providing an extra day or two for your trip. Combine your federal holiday with additional PTO days to create a more extended vacation. This combination allows for more flexibility in your travel plans and opens up the possibility of international adventures.
Embrace Flexibility:
Flexibility is critical when planning travel around federal holidays. Be open to adjusting your travel dates slightly to take advantage of better deals or availability. It’s essential to secure your accommodations and transportation well ahead of time to avoid disappointment. Consider destinations that are within a relatively short travel distance. Opting for nearby cities or attractions minimizes travel time and maximizes your time exploring your chosen destination. Alternatively, you can use the extra time to explore a more extended itinerary or to travel farther.
Maximizing time off in 2024:
In January, New Year’s Day is on a Monday. If possible, take a PTO on January 2 and enjoy a 4-day weekend.
Martin Luther King is also on a Monday, so once again, enjoy a 4-day weekend by taking a PTO on Tuesday.
In February, for Presidents Day, take a PTO the Friday before for another 4-day weekend.
In May, for Memorial Day, take a PTO on Friday for another 4-day weekend.
In June, take 4 PTO days during the week of Juneteenth. Take the Monday and Tuesday before, and the Thursday and Friday after for a possible 9-day summer holiday.
In July, for Independence Day, Take a PTO on the Friday after for another 4-day weekend.
In September, for Labor Day, take a PTO the Tuesday after for a 4-day weekend.
For Indigenous Peoples Day/Columbus Day in October and Veterans Day in November, you can enjoy a 3-day weekend. Also, taking a PTO the Friday after Thanksgiving is another opportunity for a 4-day weekend.
Finally, Christmas will be on a Wednesday, so taking PTOs on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday will give you a 9-day break.
Federal holidays offer precious opportunities to satisfy your travel bug and explore new horizons. If you are a savvy traveler, you can maximize your consecutive days of PTO to plan vacation time. By planning, embracing flexibility, and making the most of long weekends, you can time your vacation days to coincide with weekends and federal holidays. So, seize the moment, pack your bags, and embark on journeys that will leave you with cherished memories in 2024. Happy travels!
Written on December 30, 2023
