Workation: A Guide to Working on Vacation
If you are looking for more balance between work and leisure, a workation could be just the thing for you. A mix of work and vacation that allows you to explore new places and earn money at the same time. The change in the world of work and the growing flexibility thanks to location-independent, digital working are making this trend increasingly popular.
A workation can last a few days or several months and in any case requires clearly communicated agreements and good preparation. In our guide we have put together useful planning information such as legal considerations, budgeting and general practical advice.
You can find out how you can combine work and vacation, the pros and cons of a workation and experience reports from our job experts at GoodJobs.
Planning: What do you need and what do you want?
One of the most important considerations when planning a workation is the budget question - especially since you usually have ongoing costs at home. And one of the most important cost factors for a workation is of course the cost of accommodation. The choice of accommodation depends largely on your own needs. Would you like to work in the accommodation itself? Then a workplace and fast internet are a must. Or would you rather work in a co-working space nearby? Are you traveling alone or with family or friends? It's best to research them in detail in advance Accommodations and what they offer or what the surrounding area has to offer – of course at Good Travel.
There are often cheaper rates in the low season, during the week or for longer stays. In winter it can be very useful, especially in southern countries, to ask about heating options in the house and opening times of restaurants and other local infrastructure.
To be able to work in a relaxed manner is one reliable internet connection essential. Calculate the cost of high-speed internet and ask if it is included with the property or requires a separate hotspot fee.
When it comes to food, it definitely makes sense and saves money to have your own kitchen. Here you can make yourself a coffee or tea in peace in the morning before your first meeting, have enough drinks and snacks for the day and don't have to eat out every time. If you have food intolerances, it may be worth packing a few basics such as your favorite gluten-free pasta in your suitcase.
However, you should also plan a budget for restaurant visits - after all, you want to get to know the surrounding area and local specialties. We recommend ours for this purpose podcast episode over Eating while traveling.
Practical tips: What goes in the suitcase and where to put the goldfish?
Good planning is crucial for a successful workation. Here are a few tips for preparation:
Research destinations: Explore work-friendly destinations that offer a good, healthy balance between work and leisure options
Packing List: In addition to the normal luggage, you need a kind of “mobile office” for a workstation, consisting of a laptop, chargers, storage media and the necessary documents.
Create a flexible schedule: Design a work schedule that allows for productivity while leaving time for relaxation and exploration. Consider possible time zone differences for daily timing with colleagues and clients.
Organizing bleiben: Some like to use productivity tools and apps to stay organized, like project management software or time tracking apps. This can help to keep an eye on tasks and deadlines and to plan deadlines, meetings and also clear rest periods.
Doctor's appointments: During longer work sessions, it may make sense to make a few more doctor's appointments at home for necessary check-ups and new prescriptions.
Plants and animals: Of course they should be left in loving hands during the workation.
Sports: Many people want to do sports on vacation, so it's worth researching in advance where there are good sports opportunities and what options there are for short-term memberships.
Language: For a longer stay, it may make sense to take a language course in advance or look for a weekly course on site.
Account management: You should check with your own bank what it costs to withdraw money abroad or whether you can Needs extra account.
Workation and awareness: Consciously enjoy the place and arrive
During a workation, it is important not to lose sight of the impact on the local community and environment. Those who pay attention to the culture of the host country travel sustainably. Sometimes it can be nice for longer stays, with local projects like Ocean Cleanups to participate and make a positive contribution.
Speaking of awareness – a workation is of course no substitute for a vacation trip. Because only in phases without to-do lists, deadlines and the Internet (digital detox) you can fully relax.
Workation and Good Travel: Our ideas for possible destinations
Ob Bali, Tenerife or Brandenburg, weather have put together a few suggestions and experience reports from our Good Travel authors for you and are looking forward to your feedback on the topic.
What are you missing for perfect work? Find at GOOD JOBS the right job or at GOOD TRAVEL the right accommodation?
Work FAQs:
- What is a workation? The combination of work and vacation by working in an attractive location while having the opportunity to explore and relax
- Why should I do it? It offers the flexibility to work from any location and promotes work-life balance
- What type of jobs are suitable? Actually all jobs that can be done purely digitally. Looking for the right job? At GoodJobs you will find it.
- How do I choose the right place? Considers factors such as internet connection, time zone, culture, costs and local activities
- How can I convince my employer? Explain the benefits for increasing productivity, creativity and satisfaction
- Which organizational aspects should I consider? Clarify visa requirements and health insurance, check accommodation and working environment extensively (internet connection, connections, food) and how to transport work equipment and files safely
© Photos: Pexels / Srmin Rimoldi, Thirdman, Freestockpro, Cécile Meier
Geraldine Voss
Geraldine works as a freelance writer for Good Travel and has just completed training as a sustainability manager. After twenty exciting years in film, she now devotes herself full-time to her other passions - travel, food and design.
Nadia Beilenhoff
Workation, my new favorite word. Thanks for this inspiring article!