National Plan for Vacation Day

National Plan for Vacation Day is observed on the last Tuesday of January. In 2026, it falls on January 27. This initiative serves as a strategic reminder for employees to look at their calendars at the beginning of the year and commit to using their earned time off. By encouraging proactive planning, the day aims to combat the trend of “vacation deprivation” where millions of paid leave hours go unused annually. It transforms the vague intent of taking a break into a concrete schedule that benefits individual well-being and the broader economy.

History of National Plan for Vacation Day

This observance was established in 2017 by the U.S. Travel Association through its “Project: Time Off” initiative. The organization recognized a concerning trend in American work culture where the number of vacation days taken had hit a historical low compared to previous decades. Research revealed that more than half of American workers left a portion of their paid time off on the table every year, often due to workplace pressure or the lack of a clear travel plan. The last Tuesday of January was chosen as the permanent date because it coincides with the period when people are most likely to experience winter burnout and are already daydreaming about future trips.

In its inaugural year, the movement gained immediate traction with hundreds of organizations across the country participating in the campaign. The history of the day is rooted in the “planning effect,” a psychological concept suggesting that people who specifically schedule their time off are significantly more likely to actually take it. Since 2017, the day has evolved into a major industry event where travel agencies, airlines, and local tourism boards offer special deals to entice early bookers. It has successfully shifted the conversation from the guilt of taking leave to the necessity of rest for long-term career sustainability.

Why is National Plan for Vacation Day important?

The primary importance of this day lies in its role as a mental health intervention. Scientific studies show that planning a trip provides a boost in happiness that is often greater than the trip itself. The anticipation of a future reward reduces stress and provides a goal to look forward to during busy work periods. Furthermore, vacations are proven to decrease the risk of heart disease and burnout, making the act of planning a vital component of physical health maintenance.

Beyond individual benefits, the day has a massive economic impact. Unused vacation days represent billions of dollars in lost spending for the travel and hospitality sectors. When workers plan their travel early, they contribute to the stability of local economies and the jobs that depend on tourism. Additionally, employers benefit from the planner effect, as employees who take regular breaks are reported to be more productive and engaged upon their return. Planning ahead also allows for better office management, as teams can coordinate schedules and avoid last-minute staffing shortages.

• Planning early ensures access to the best deals on flights and accommodations.
• Regular time off is linked to lower levels of depression and anxiety.
• Taking vacations helps strengthen bonds with family through shared experiences.
• Planners are statistically more likely to receive promotions than non-planners.
• Using earned time off ensures you receive the full value of your employment benefits.

How to Celebrate National Plan for Vacation Day

The most effective way to celebrate is to sit down with your HR manual to confirm exactly how many vacation days you will accrue this year. Once you have your number, look at the calendar and identify long weekends or federal holidays that can be extended with just one or two days of leave. This stacking method allows you to maximize your time away from the office without draining your entire balance. Finalize your choices by adding these dates to your work and personal calendars immediately to set your intention.

Sharing your plans is a crucial step in the observation. Discuss your proposed dates with your supervisor and teammates as early as possible to secure approval and ensure smooth coverage while you are away. You can also use this day to research new destinations or create a vision board of the places you want to visit. Many travel companies release flash sales on this day, so it is an ideal time to book the core components of your trip, such as lodging or rental cars, to take advantage of holiday discounts.

• Calculate your total accrued leave and note any expiration deadlines.
• Use a vacation planning tool or spreadsheet to map out your year.
• Submit your formal time-off requests to your manager today.
• Book one anchor activity or flight to commit to your travel goals.
• Encourage your coworkers to also take a moment to plan their breaks.

National Plan for Vacation Day Dates Table