3 Big Barriers to Taking a Vacation That Might Surprise You

“The best thing about a vacation is planning it.” – Andy Rooney

Does it ever seem like the benefits of vacation planning are constantly being trumped by the realities of life and work? You may be surprised by some of the main things that keep people from taking advantage of vacation specials each year. In fact, various studies have shown that spending time planning your vacation getaway each year can eliminate these barriers and lead to increased happiness and morale, while reducing stress and preventing job burnout.

Believe it or not, planning your vacation time each year can be enjoyable (and recent studies suggest that the planning and anticipation of travel can actually be the most enjoyable part of a vacation!). By being proactive about vacation planning, you can reap the rewards and truly enjoy your well-earned time off each and every year! So whether you're looking a 3 days vacation, Disney Orlando vacation packages or summer vacation ideas to try, you'll want to learn more about out the three biggest barriers to taking a trip and learn about specific travel hacks and tips for effective vacation planning.

#1 Biggest Barrier to Taking a Vacation: Family Obligations

We’ve all said it many times before – “I simply don’t have enough time to travel!” Let’s face it, with family obligations, work demands and a pile of bills on the table, it just never seems the right time to plan that vacation getaway. In fact, a 2017 Project: Time Off survey conducted by the U.S. Travel Association revealed:

• Sixty-four percent of Americans claimed that “lack of certainty about their personal schedule” interfered with their ability to plan vacations.

• In addition, 50 percent of respondents cited “coordinating children’s schedules and extracurricular activities” as a major barrier to taking a vacation.

#2 Biggest Barrier to Taking a Vacation: Work Responsibilities

A lack of certainty about work schedules can also serve to postpone or sideline a vacation getaway. However, by giving your employer plenty of notice, you can help ease some of the challenges of vacation planning as they pertain to your work schedule. In fact, employers appreciate employees who plan their vacations since it allows them to plan coverage while they are out of the office and helps prevent job burnout. According the 2017 Project: Time Off survey:

• Although 81 percent of respondents recognized that planning time off makes it easier to use the vacation days they earn, only 49 percent take the time to plan their vacation days out each year.

• Forty-one percent of employees provide their employers with less than a week’s notice when they take a single day off from work. (In addition, 3 percent of employees reveal that they simply “do not have to tell anyone” before taking a day off!).

• Although 91 percent of employers claim that they wanted to approve vacation requests, 43 percent said they are “sometimes unable to because their employees did not provide enough notice.”

• Fifty-one percent of employees leave all or more of their work for then when get back from vacation, while 42 percent reach out to their coworkers for help and 6 percent bring work along with them on vacation.

• Sixty-two percent of employees claim they have never been encouraged by their employer to plan the use of their vacation days, while 11 percent say they have been discouraged by their employer from taking time off.

• Seventy-eight percent of employers state that it would be helpful to know their employee’s vacation plans for the entire year.

#3 Biggest Barrier to Taking a Vacation: Financial Concerns

Acclaimed writer of travel literature Eugene Fodor once declared, “You don’t have to be rich to travel well.” However, in a recent survey that appeared on statista.com, 40 percent of respondents cited “insufficient funds” as a major reason for not taking an annual vacation. In fact, by researching your costs and estimating how much you will have to save for your next trip, you can make realistic strides and start setting aside funds for your vacation. Check out the following tips to save money on your next vacation getaway:

• Research the best travel deals. As discussed, the most important aspect of vacation planning is to save money by researching the destination well in advance of your departure date and setting a travel budget. Also, look for free and cheap things to do in your chosen travel destination.

• Be flexible with your travel plans. Flexibility can translate to measurable savings. By making small adjustments to your itinerary, you can reduce costs in a major way. For example, traveling on certain days of week and opting for early-morning or late-night flights can often be much cheaper.

• Don’t travel during peak travel season. Prices are higher during major holidays and throughout the summer due to increased demand. Traveling “off peak” can save you a bundle.

• Book your flight during the so-called prime booking window. Make sure to book your flight between approximately three weeks to three-and-a-half months in advance of your departure date.

• Look for accommodations that feature full kitchens or kitchenettes. Save money by cooking meals on occasion instead of eating out for every meal on your vacation.

Fortunately, you can have the dream vacation you've always wanted with Westgate Resorts! Whether it's a stay at one of the best hotels New York City has to offer, a trip to an authentic glamping resort, a Florida staycation in one of our 2 bedroom suites near Disney World or the newest water park hotels at our Cocoa Beach resort, we've got your destination right here at Westgate! From weekend getaways in Florida to pet friendly weekend getaways, we've your your ultimate vacation experience!

At Westgate Resorts, when you Check-In, there’s a LOT to Check-Out! Your vacation awaits. Start planning your next vacation today or talk with a vacation planner at 888-852-2959 or 407-355-2690.