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A new survey finds that nearly six in 10 Americans are mentally “out of office” before they even set their OOO message. And seven in 10 say they’re already in vacation mode three days before departure.
The poll, conducted by Talker Research on behalf of CheapCaribbean, analyzed the habits and mindset of 2,000 American adults when it comes to preparing for a getaway — and the results suggest many are long overdue for some time off.
Among those surveyed, 47 percent of employed respondents admitted they struggle to focus at work in the final days leading up to a trip. An even greater number — 75 percent — said they’ve experienced mental fog at work recently, a likely sign of burnout.
When asked to identify the top signs they desperately need a vacation, the most common answer was feeling burnt out, cited by 62 percent of respondents.
Other key indicators included daydreaming about a trip (45 percent), getting irritated with others (44 percent), feeling fatigued no matter how much sleep they got (39 percent), and having low energy even on weekends (35 percent).
Planning a vacation also comes with its share of stressors.
Fifty-four percent said money and budgeting are their top concerns, followed by packing (28 percent) and booking hotels (17 percent). Still, over 87 percent of respondents said simply having a vacation on the calendar improves their mental well-being.
“It’s clear that simply having a vacation on the calendar has a positive impact on people’s overall happiness,” said Michael Lowery, Head of Global Consumer Business at CheapCaribbean. “And a sense of anticipation and the knowledge that relaxation is to come can really make a difference day to day.”
The study also revealed that forgetfulness is a common side effect of vacation anticipation. Phone chargers (28 percent) topped the list of items most likely to be left behind when packing, followed by toothbrushes and toothpaste (24 percent), headphones or earbuds (19 percent), and sunglasses (18 percent).
When it comes to planning style, many are looking for balance. Respondents said the “perfect trip” involves a 50/50 mix of spontaneity and structure. And while some are ready to roll at a moment’s notice—16 percent said they can pack in just a few hours — others prefer more lead time, averaging three days to feel fully prepared.
One in three people surveyed said they currently have a trip booked, and a similar number said they daydream about being on vacation every single day.
Those with a trip on the horizon also reported being happier overall, rating their current mood at 7.6 on a 10-point scale, compared to 6.8 for those without travel plans.
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