Glowbirding: escape the winter blues

Glowbirding involves temporarily relocating to sunnier climes during the chilly winter months. This wellness travel trend is particularly popular among young travelers who work remotely and want to make the most of the flexibility that this offers—all while boosting their mental health, staying fit, and making new memories.

Glowbirding rentals are long-stay vacation rentals in destinations that offer a warm climate during the winter months. Usually, they'll include amenities favored by glowbirds, such as a dedicated workspace, fast Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and a kitchen. Properties with shared communal areas, like a pool or gym, are also popular among glowbirds traveling solo and looking to make friends while on the road.

SnowbirdsOpens in a new window—often older travelers—have been heading south in search of winter sun for years. Glowbirds are their younger, wellness-focused counterparts. While snowbirds often travel as a couple, many glowbirds jet off on their adventure solo. Glowbirds will also often continue to work remotely during their stay, whereas snowbirds are usually retired. Both groups, though, appreciate the well-being benefits of a warmer climate and seek to make the most of being in a sunnier location. 

Start off by deciding where you'd like to go: Somewhere sunny, of course—but would you prefer a destination within the US or further afield? Once you know where you're going, it's time to book your vacation rental. Make sure you opt for somewhere with all the amenities you need, like a desk and fast Wi-Fi for remote work, plus laundry facilities so you can refresh your clothes midway through your trip. Accommodations sorted? Turn your focus to your itinerary: While you may well be working, it's important to balance this with some well-earned downtime, such as hiking, yoga or reading on the beach. Finally, think about what to pack—remember your travel adapter, if required, and clothes suited to a warmer climate than you might be experiencing at home.

Some of the best places to workation are to be found within the US: Tucson, Arizona, for instance, offers the perfect blend of winter sun, warm weather, and a friendly, welcoming community with plenty of activities to keep you busy. Further up the East Coast, Hilton Head, South Carolina, promises beaches galore—ideal for all swimmers, snorkelers, and sunbathers looking for a glowbird getaway. Wanting more of an adventure and a dose of Caribbean charm? Belize could be right up your street. When choosing where you stay, don't forget to consider the time zone: If you have to be online during specific hours, it's easier if you stay in a time zone that's similar to the one at home.

Thanks to Vrbo's Affirm vacation plans*, there's no need to fork out all the cash before you head off on your glowbirding trip. That gives you the flexibility to save up and settle the bill at a time that's convenient for you, upgrade for a swankier stay, or pay in installments. Plus, Affirm has no hidden or late fees.  

*Payment options through Affirm are subject to an eligibility check and are provided by these lending partners: affirm.com/lenders. Options depend on your purchase amount, and a down payment may be required. For licenses and disclosures, see affirm.com/licenses. 

Yes, Vrbo bookings are frequently available at lower cost if you stay for an extended period of time. Travelers will often be able to find discounts on long-stay accommodations, be it for weeklyOpens in a new window or monthlyOpens in a new window rentals. That means your glowbird adventure could end up costing less than you'd expect—leaving you with more cash in your pocket to make the most of your sun-soaked destination.