Picture this: you're feeling burned out, overwhelmed by the daily grind, and in desperate need of a change of scenery. But the reality is, you can’t afford to fully disconnect from work right now. What if there was a way to have a break without missing a beat at work?
A workcation is a working vacation—a way to combine the flexibility of remote work with the rejuvenation of a vacation.
"...the fact that remote and flexible work is so much more entrenched means that people who used to spend all their time at their desks now have more scope to explore other options while fulfilling their professional responsibilities."
~BBC
Instead of taking paid time off (PTO) and logging out completely, you take your work along with you to a place that offers you a refreshing environment. Imagine working from a cabin in the mountains or a beachside café; these on-the-clock getaways are becoming increasingly popular, especially as remote work has surged since the pandemic.
What is a Workcation?
Workcations blend work with a change in location—letting you complete work tasks while still getting a break from your usual surroundings. Unlike traditional vacations, workcations don’t require you to take PTO, and they offer greater flexibility compared to structured “bleisure” (business + leisure) trips.
While their growing popularity is tied to the rise in remote work, the concept of workcations is not entirely new. Workers have been "taking work with them" since technologies like laptops and mobile devices made doing so feasible.
The workcation trend has been fueled by increased burnout rates, and workcations offer a middle ground where professionals can remain engaged in their work while experiencing new environments.
3 Benefits of a Workcation
The idea of a working vacation has become so popular that it is now often touted by travel and hospitality companies; even KOA Campgrounds recently wrote about taking a workcation at their campgrounds!
1. Boosts mental well-being and combats burnout
Taking a workcation can help reduce burnout by offering a change of environment. It provides the mental reset many people need while still allowing them to maintain productivity. A change in scenery can do wonders for improving mental well-being.
2. Increased flexibility and productivity
Workcations give you the flexibility to choose your work environment. This allows you to craft a work routine that fits your needs—whether you prefer a quiet retreat or a vibrant city. Research shows that remote workers often experience increased productivity when they have control over their workspace, and a well-planned workcation offers just that.
3. Saving PTO
One of the practical advantages of workcations is that you don’t need to use PTO. This can be particularly useful if you’re saving vacation days for another time or need them for emergency purposes. It’s a way to take a mental break while still managing work responsibilities.
The Arguments Against Workcations
While workcations can offer a refreshing change of scenery and the potential for increased productivity, not everyone believes blending work and leisure is beneficial.
Critics argue that constantly being "on" can blur the lines between work and personal life, leading to potential burnout rather than alleviating it. The lack of clear boundaries may also prevent people from fully disconnecting and recharging, which is a key element of mental health.
However, workcations fit well within the concept of "work-life integration." Unlike the traditional notion of work-life balance, which aims to separate work and personal life, work-life integration encourages a blending of the two in ways that complement each other.
When done right, a workcation can embody work-life integration by allowing individuals to remain productive while also enjoying a new environment, contributing to both professional engagement and personal well-being.
The Do's of a Successful Workcation
To make the most out of your workcation, it’s important to set yourself up for success with some best practices.
Get Permission and Plan Ahead
A successful workcation starts with thorough planning. It’s important to set the stage properly by getting approval from your employer and aligning your workcation goals with your professional responsibilities. The key to making a workcation work for both you and your employer is clear communication and proactive planning.
Choose the Right Location
The location you choose can make or break your workcation. Pick a place that has reliable Wi-Fi and a conducive work environment. Consider the logistics; will you have enough space and quiet time to work effectively? The right location should allow you to work seamlessly without constant interruptions.
Bring the Right Technology and Have Backups
Make sure you’re well-equipped with all the technology you need to work remotely. Bring necessary chargers, backup devices, and check if you have a reliable power source. Planning for tech issues in advance can prevent headaches later.
Establish a Work Schedule and Stick to It
One of the keys to a successful workcation is creating a work schedule and sticking to it. Set work hours that allow you to be productive while also leaving ample time to enjoy your new surroundings. This structure will help you make the most of both work and leisure.
The Dont's of a Workcation
It's also important to know what not to do during a workcation. By being mindful of these potential missteps, you can ensure that your workcation is both productive and enjoyable.
Don't Assume It's All Relaxation
Remember, a workcation is still work… It's important to manage your expectations and realize that while you’re in a beautiful location, you’re not on a traditional vacation. Over-relaxing or neglecting your work can lead to decreased productivity, and that defeats the purpose.
Avoid Traveling Without Proper Planning
Don’t choose destinations with unreliable internet or unclear logistics. Planning is crucial to ensure that you can work effectively without disruptions. Make sure you’ve researched your location thoroughly before you go.
Don't Forget to Set Boundaries
Boundaries are essential. Set clear work and leisure times to ensure you’re neither working all the time nor completely neglecting your responsibilities. Failing to set boundaries can lead to an unsatisfying experience where neither work nor relaxation is achieved effectively.
How to Plan a Successful Workcation
Choose a Suitable Destination
Look for a destination that supports both work and leisure. Factors like cost, internet access, and amenities should be considered to ensure that you can work efficiently while also enjoying some downtime.
Budgeting Tips
Workcations can get expensive if not planned well. Budget for accommodations, food, and travel in advance. Consider staying in places that offer kitchen facilities to save on dining expenses or look for extended-stay discounts.
Balancing Work and Relaxation
To make the most out of your workcation, plan your work hours in short, focused bursts. This will allow you to get work done efficiently, leaving you with enough time to relax and enjoy your surroundings.
Practical Tips for a Successful Workcation
- Always double-check Wi-fi availability. Before Before you leave, verify that your destination has reliable internet. Contact your accommodation directly to confirm the speed and stability, as many locations may advertise Wi-Fi without the capability to support work needs such as video conferencing.
- Set clear communication schedules with your team. Establish and communicate your work hours to your team before leaving for the workcation. Use tools like shared calendars or status updates to make sure everyone knows when you are available. This helps manage expectations and avoid misunderstandings.
- Pack tech essentials, including chargers and adapters. Make a checklist of all tech essentials—laptop, phone, chargers, power banks, and adapters (especially if traveling internationally). Consider bringing a mobile hotspot as a backup for internet connectivity, and a portable laptop stand for ergonomic comfort.
- Schedule dedicated off-hours to truly enjoy your location. Plan specific times during the day when you will log off and fully immerse yourself in your surroundings. It could be a morning walk, a midday lunch break at a local spot, or exploring after work hours. Use this time to disconnect from work and recharge.
- Prepare for for tech failures. Bring backup items like extra charging cables, a second power bank, and even a lightweight spare device if possible. Know the locations of nearby electronics stores or coworking spaces in case of an emergency.
- Optimize your workspace. Choose accommodations that provide a suitable workspace, or bring along items like a portable mouse, noise-canceling headphones, or even a small folding desk if needed to make your environment comfortable and productive.
- Set clear goals for both work and relaxation. Before your trip, outline your work goals as well as your relaxation goals. This helps maintain a balance and ensures you don’t feel guilty during off-hours or overwhelmed during work hours.
Workcations: Can They Be a Win-Win for Employees and Employers?
Workcations offer a unique opportunity that can benefit both employees and employers. For employees, they provide a refreshing way to experience a change of scenery without sacrificing work commitments, helping to maintain productivity while reducing burnout.
Employers can benefit from motivated and engaged employees who feel trusted and empowered with greater flexibility. By fostering a culture that embraces work-life integration, workcations can contribute to a more satisfied, balanced, and resilient workforce.
When you partner with Ulliance, our Life Advisor Consultants are always just a phone call away to teach ways to enhance your work/life balance and increase your happiness. The Ulliance Life Advisor Employee Assistance Program can help employees and employers come closer to a state of total well-being.
Investing in the right EAP or Wellness Program to support your employees will help them and help you. Visit https://ulliance.com/ or call 866-648-8326.
The Ulliance Employee Assistance Program can address the
following issues:
• Stress about work or job performance
• Crisis in the workplace
• Conflict resolution at work or in one’s personal life
• Marital or relationship problems
• Child or elder care concerns
• Financial worries
• Mental health problems
• Alcohol/substance abuse
• Grief
• Interpersonal conflicts
• AND MORE!
References:
The Do's and Don’ts of a Great Workcation: Tips for Employees; Shift; Simon Vreeswijk
https://shift.com/blog/tips-tricks/the-dos-and-donts-of-a-great-workcation/
What Is a Workcation?; KOA
https://koa.com/blog/what-is-a-workcation/
Workcations: The New Norm?; Korn Ferry; Deepali Vyas
https://www.kornferry.com/insights/this-week-in-leadership/workcations-the-new-norm
Workcations: The Travel Trend Mixing Work and Play; BBC; Bryan Lufkin
https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20220309-workcations-the-travel-trend-mixing-work-and-play