Summer is here, and “workcations” are on the rise.
With summer travel in full swing, a growing number of employees are blending business with leisure in what’s known as a "workcation" or "bleisure" trip. According to data from Engine, a group travel startup, nearly two-thirds (65%) of full-time employed Gen Z workers say they’re likely to extend their business trips for personal exploration.
Why the shift? For many, it feels like a bonus vacation. Others cite benefits such as visiting cities they wouldn’t otherwise see (35%), improving work-life balance (33%), and using the time to recharge and reduce stress (33%).
As this trend gains traction, both employers and employees are learning how to make workcations productive and fulfilling. Below, experts and leaders share insights on how to do them right.
Be Transparent — It Builds Trust
I’ve had the opportunity to combine business travel with family adventures across more than 60 countries — working during mornings and exploring in the afternoons. My best advice? Be upfront with your employer.
From the start, I made it clear that my kids would be traveling with me, but that my performance wouldn’t suffer. To my surprise, every company was incredibly supportive. Blending work and travel not only sustained my career but also raised two fearless, adaptable global citizens.
Jenny Dearborn, Chief People Strategy Officer and Talent Insights Practice Leader, BTS
Create a Formal Program — Flexibility Works
At Prudential, we believe in giving our employees the flexibility to thrive — wherever they are. Our Work From Anywhere program allows people to work remotely within the U.S. for up to four weeks. Recently, three team members took advantage of the policy by relocating to San Diego for two weeks.
They stayed together in a short-term rental, collaborated in person, explored the city, and even used our volunteer PTO to give back to a local nonprofit.
This approach reflects our commitment to well-being and flexibility, and it shows that when employees feel supported, they deliver great results.
Robert Gulliver, Chief Talent & Diversity Officer, Prudential Financial
Time-Box Your Work — Structure Boosts Productivity
My wife and I have been living a nomadic lifestyle for over a decade now. One thing we’ve learned is that frequent moves disrupt productivity. We now stay in each location for at least two weeks — ideally one to three months.
Even while traveling, I schedule dedicated workdays — or at least focused morning sessions — where the only plan is getting things done. I spend the first hour handling emails and support queries, then block off three hours for deep work on key projects.
Knowing I only have a limited window to focus makes me more efficient. Time-boxing has become essential to staying productive while enjoying the freedom of a mobile life.
Ryan Desmond, CEO & Co-founder, CodingNomads
Recharge Intentionally — The ReNU Framework
Just being away doesn’t mean you're recharged. In fact, workcations often fall short because they don’t truly allow for rest. To feel refreshed, you need to fill three key buckets: Resources, Needs, and Unhooking — or ReNU.
- **Resources:** Give yourself what you expend at work — whether that’s mental energy, emotional resilience, or physical stamina.
- **Needs:** Meet your basic needs, including sleep, autonomy, and social connection.
- **Unhooking:** This is crucial. It means mentally disconnecting from work, not just physically leaving your desk.
Without these elements, a workcation can leave you just as drained as before.
Jamie Gruman, PhD, Professor and Senior Research Fellow, Gordon S. Lang School of Business and Economics, University of Guelph
Embrace the Lifestyle — Find What Works for You
In 2020, I left behind a busy in-person practice in favor of a new kind of life. With my laptop packed, I headed west to Utah. Between client sessions, I traded crowded sidewalks for mountain trails and open skies.
After nine weeks of this rhythm, I sold most of my belongings, gave up my office lease, and hit the road cross-country. Why wait until retirement to live in the places you love?
For the past four years, I’ve worked remotely with clients while embracing a minimalist, flexible lifestyle. While I sometimes miss in-person interactions, I’m grateful to live a life aligned with my values and show up fully for those I serve.
— Caitlin Magidson, NCC, LCPC, Coach and Psychotherapist, The Coaching & Counseling Company
Prioritize Connectivity — It’s Non-Negotiable
I help travelers experience remote adventure combined with comfort across Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. Managing international clients while on the move requires a strong infrastructure, especially when it comes to internet connectivity.
If you’re balancing video calls with cultural immersion, reliable Wi-Fi is essential. My top tip? Don’t settle for just "Wi-Fi available." Look for accommodations that offer high-speed, stable connections and backup options if needed.
Naresh Dahal, Operations Manager, Everest Luxury Holidays
Establish a Rhythm — Not Rigidity
My family and I recently returned from two months at sea — all while working remotely and world-schooling our then-6-year-old daughter. The experience taught us the importance of routine, even in a dynamic environment.
We set firm “office hours” on sea days, which brought structure without sacrificing spontaneity. Without the usual home responsibilities like cooking and cleaning, we actually found ourselves with more free time than expected.
Treat workcations like a rhythm, not a rigid schedule. Plan ahead with your team or clients, clearly separate work and playtime, and remain open to adjustments. When done right, you can be both present and productive.
— Christianne Klein, Founder, FoodFamilyTravel.com
Final Thoughts: Making Workcations Work
The rise of workcations reflects a broader shift in how we define work-life integration. Whether you're extending a business trip or embracing a fully nomadic lifestyle, success lies in communication, intentionality, and structure.
Employers who support flexibility and well-being will attract top talent, while employees who manage their time wisely can enjoy both professional success and personal enrichment.