What is a Workcation? (And When Should You Take One?)

In a world where Zoom calls can happen from a cabin in the woods or a beachfront terrace, workcations are no longer just a trend; they’re transforming how we travel.

Whether you're a digital nomad, a knowledge worker with a flexible schedule, or simply craving a better work-life balance, a workcation might be just what you need.

→ Explore Wander's luxury workcation rentals and discover inspiring destinations designed for both focus and freedom.

What Is a Workcation?

A workcation (or working vacation) is exactly what it sounds like: a blend of work and play. Instead of taking paid time off or completely disconnecting from work, you continue working remotely while spending time in a new location.

Unlike a traditional vacation where you fully unplug, a workcation lets you stay productive during working hours while exploring and relaxing during your free time. It's not about skipping your responsibilities; it's about relocating them for a while.

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A few key things a workcation is not:

• ❌ A full vacation (you’re still working)

• ❌ A business trip (there’s no fixed agenda or client meetings)

• ❌ A sabbatical (you’re not fully off work)

• ❌ Bleisure travel (you’re not tagging days onto a work trip)

Instead, workcations combine work with the emotional and mental benefits of travel, giving you a change of scenery without using precious vacation days.

The Benefits of a Workcation

Workcations offer numerous benefits for remote workers, knowledge workers, entrepreneurs, and even traditional employees with hybrid schedules. Here’s how they support your productivity and well-being:

✅ Improved Work-Life Balance

Changing up your environment can help reset your mindset, reduce work-related stress, and create clearer boundaries between work and personal time.

✅ Boosted Mental Health

Being in a new destination with access to leisure activities, fresh air, and inspiring surroundings has been shown to support better mental health and overall well-being.

✅ Enhanced Focus and Productivity

A quiet mountain retreat or coastal getaway might be more conducive to deep work than your cluttered home office. The right setting can unlock focus.

✅ Increased Job Satisfaction

Workcations can improve how you feel about your job. They reduce monotony, offer flexibility, and let you take control of your schedule, leading to greater employee satisfaction.

✅ Personal Growth and Inspiration

New perspectives fuel creativity. Whether it’s trying delicious food in a new city or walking through ancient ruins after logging off, combining work and vacation can be genuinely rejuvenating.

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When Should You Take a Workcation?

Not every season of work is the right time for a working vacation. Here’s when to consider it:

🔄 During Slow Periods

If your industry has seasonal lulls or you're between projects, take advantage of the downtime by planning a short-term workcation.

🧠 When You Need a Mental Reset

Feeling stuck? A new environment can spark creativity and reduce burnout, especially if you’re juggling personal life, remote work, and Zoom fatigue.

🌍 When You Want to Test a New Destination

Thinking of moving to a new city or country? A workcation is a great way to explore a location without taking time off.

🧳 For a Better Business Trip

Instead of staying in a standard hotel room, extend your work trip with a few days of leisure and turn it into a more fulfilling hybrid experience.

Just be mindful: a workcation isn’t a substitute for a full vacation. Everyone needs time to completely disconnect. Workcations are best when complemented with actual vacations to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

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How to Plan a Successful Workcation

If you’re ready to take your first, or next, workcation, here are the most important factors to consider:

• Choose the right location: Look for destinations that inspire you and offer fast, reliable internet.

• Set clear boundaries: Define your working hours and stick to them to make room for leisure activities.

• Communicate with your team: Let them know your schedule, time zone, and how to reach you.

• Stay productive: Create a workspace that keeps you focused, whether it’s a desk by the window or a table near the fireplace.

• Explore after hours: Embrace your surroundings, whether that’s local cuisine, national parks, or peaceful beaches.

→ Explore Wander Alexander Mountain

Why Wander is Perfect for Workcations

At Wander, we understand that remote work isn’t just about staying connected – it’s about living well. Our homes are designed for productive working vacations, complete with:

• Fiber-grade Wi-Fi & ergonomic workstations

• Peaceful settings in the mountains, along the coast, or in wine country

• Full kitchens, hot tubs, fireplaces, and wellness amenities

• Flexible booking for long weekends or long-term workcations

• 24/7 virtual concierge and move-in ready convenience

Whether you're staying in Hudson Valley, Blue Ridge, Sonoma, or one of our beachfront Mexico locations, Wander gives you a base to blend work and life seamlessly.

→ Explore Wander’s Luxury Workcation Rentals

FAQs

How long should a workcation be?

It can last a few days to a few weeks. Many remote workers plan workcations during slower periods for maximum benefit.

Is a workcation the same as bleisure travel?

Not quite. Bleisure travel combines leisure with a business trip, while workcations are flexible and remote-first, often chosen by the traveler, not their company.

Do I need to tell my manager about a workcation?

Yes, especially if you’ll be working in a different time zone. Transparency helps keep everything running smoothly.

Can I take a workcation internationally?

Yes! Just ensure the destination has reliable Wi-Fi and check visa or work policies if you plan to stay longer.