NATIONAL DAYTRAVEL

National Plan for Vacation Day

Join the movement to take a break, planning vacations is crucial for mental health.

JAN27

Tuesday, January 27Last Tuesday in January

Roots: Announced by the U.S. Travel Association in 2017
Vibe: A day to dream and plan adventures
Also on Jan 27: Holocaust Remembrance Day · Chocolate Cake Day · Vietnam Peace Day
Hashtag: #NationalPlanForVacationDay

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Apple or Outlook calendar

3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Pick your dates

Open the calendar and block off the days for your next trip.

WITH FRIENDS

Brainstorm destinations

Make a shared list of places you want to visit this year.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Compare time-off plans

Swap vacation ideas with coworkers and lock in your days early.

Plan ahead

National Plan for Vacation Day is observed on the last Tuesday in January. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Tue, Jan 27this year

2027Tue, Jan 26

2028Tue, Jan 25

2029Tue, Jan 30

2030Tue, Jan 29

2031Tue, Jan 28

2032Tue, Jan 27

2033Tue, Jan 25

2034Tue, Jan 31

2035Tue, Jan 30

2036Tue, Jan 29

Add to my calendar (repeats yearly)

Fast facts

Americans leave 600+ million vacation days unused

600+ organizations took part in the inaugural year

The story

National Plan for Vacation Day falls on the last Tuesday of January, a time when many Americans are feeling the winter blues. This observance was launched in 2017 by Project: Time Off, a U.S. Travel Association initiative, to encourage people to prioritize their well-being through travel. By planning vacations, individuals can look forward to exciting adventures that can rejuvenate their spirits and foster meaningful relationships.

Read the full story

Despite the benefits of taking time off, statistics reveal that many Americans leave vacation days unused. Each year, Americans leave more than 600 million vacation days unused. This neglect can lead to increased stress and decreased job satisfaction. National Plan for Vacation Day serves as a reminder that planning a vacation is not just a luxury but a necessity for mental and physical health.

As people gather together to strategize their travel plans, they often discover hidden gems and experiences they wouldn't have considered otherwise. From road trips across the scenic byways of the United States to international adventures, the planning process itself can spark creativity and excitement. Engaging in conversations about travel can also strengthen familial and social bonds, making the journey just as important as the destination.

In a world where work often takes precedence, National Plan for Vacation Day encourages individuals to take a step back and schedule time for themselves. Whether it's a weekend getaway or a month-long expedition, making vacation plans can lead to a more balanced life. So, gather your loved ones, open a map, and start dreaming, there’s a whole world waiting to be explored.