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Planning can help you feel more confident and in control of your travel goals, even with limited paid time off (PTO).Â
With the new year comes new opportunities to travel and explore the world in search of unique experiences. But for most Americans, that means juggling a limited amount of paid time off. Making the most of these precious vacation days takes some strategy, but 2026 has plenty of opportunities to maximize your PTO. So, start thinking strategically now.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average American working in the private sector receives 11 vacation days after 1 year with their company, increasing to 15 after 5 years and 18 after 10 years.
The best way to optimize those vacation days and turn them into multiple trips is by requesting time off around federal holidays when your company is likely to be closed. In 2026, several holidays fall on a Friday or Monday, guaranteeing you a three-day weekend that you can extend into a longer trip.
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2026 three-day weekends:
• Monday, Jan. 19: Birthday of Martin Luther King Jr.
• Monday, Feb. 16: Washington’s Birthday
• Monday, May 25: Memorial Day
• Friday, June 19: Juneteenth National Independence Day
• Friday, July 3: Independence Day (observed)
• Monday, Sept. 7: Labor Day
• Monday, Oct. 12: Columbus Day
• Friday, Dec. 25: Christmas Day
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Other federal holidays in 2026:
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• Thursday, Jan. 1: New Year’s Day
• Wednesday, Nov. 11: Veterans Day
• Thursday, Nov. 26: Thanksgiving
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If you plan, requesting time off around these holidays can extend your PTO, giving you more time for travel and making your trips more cost-effective.
Although higher travel prices during these peak holiday periods may be difficult, prolonging your vacation could be worth it. Your vacation could be worthwhile if you plan carefully and consider alternative travel times.
If you’re not worried about maximizing your PTO, other tips for traveling more in 2026 include:
• Travel during “shoulder” season
• Be flexible and let flight deals determine which destinations you’ll visit
• Map out your entire year of travel far in advance
• Use Google Flights or Hopper to track flight prices
• Use a credit card (responsibly) to earn points and travel for less.
Bon voyage.
Media Corp USA (MC USA) wishes everyone a safe, happy, and prosperous New Year. We thank you for reading this article.
Jessica is a freelance journalist on a quest to see and experience everything our gorgeous planet offers and share her experiences with her fellow travelers. Jessica has written for several world-class Travel Magazines.
