A significant portion of American workers are not utilizing all their paid time off (PTO). According to a recent Harris Poll survey of 1,170 U.S. workers, 78% admit to leaving PTO unused. The primary reasons cited include busy schedules, heavy workloads, and a relentless “pressure to always be available.” Additionally, the rising costs of travel—up 15% from 2019 according to NerdWallet—further discourage employees from taking vacations.
Despite these challenges, paid time off remains a highly valued benefit. The Harris Poll found that 48% of U.S. workers would prefer more PTO over a higher salary. To combat burnout and enhance employee retention, some companies are adopting innovative strategies, particularly within the travel industry. These initiatives include offering four-figure stipends for travel and assisting with vacation costs through flight or hotel credits.
If you are seeking a flexible job that supports remote work and helps you fund your travels, consider applying to one of these companies highlighted by FlexJobs:
1. **Hopper** (Travel)
- Benefit: Annual “carrot cash” of $200 for bookings via the Hopper app.
2. **BambooHR** (HR Software)
- Benefit: $2,000 annual stipend under the “paid paid vacation” policy for travel expenses.
3. **Kindred** (Travel)
- Benefit: Quarterly $1,000 travel stipend for airfare or gas.
4. **Thirty Madison** (Health Care)
- Benefit: Annual $750 vacation stipend.
5. **Tripadvisor** (Tech, Travel)
- Benefit: Reimbursement for personal travel, with amounts based on years of service.
6. **MNTN** (Advertising, Travel)
- Benefit: Annual $2,000 vacation stipend.
7. **Kasa** (Travel)
- Benefit: Up to $2,000 in annual lodging credits for Kasa rental properties.