According to Vrbo data, taking a “Flexcation” is the latest family travel trend

According to Vrbo data, taking a “Flexcation” is the latest family travel trend

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, families are still finding ways to make the most of unusual circumstances to plan a getaway. With more flexible work and school arrangements, many families are embracing the idea of a “flexcation,” an emerging travel trend where families rent vacation homes later in August, September and October, consider staying longer to mix work and play, and often get better value in high-demand locales. If you missed out on your annual summer trip this year or just want to take advantage of more flexibility in your work and school routine, consider a flexcation. 

Mix work and play

This is an infographic about the percentage of families that have more flexible work and school schedules.

A nationwide Vrbo survey of families revealed that 50% of those surveyed agreed that flexible school schedules provide more flexibility in vacationing, while 48% said they can work from anywhere. And 21% of respondents said that working from anywhere creates big opportunities for travel during the second half of 2020. 

Consider joining the countless families that have already taken road trips and rented Vrbo vacation homes this year. By mixing work and play, families can still keep up with work and school responsibilities while still having the opportunity to travel outside of peak seasons and try new experiences or take a relaxing break. 

Save money and avoid crowds

his is an infographic about a drop of 20% or more in prices when booking later in the year for popular destinations.

Prices for vacation rentals on Vrbo typically drop during shoulder season, the time period after Labor Day and before the holiday travel season. Families not tied to strict in-person school or work commitments can benefit from fewer crowds and lower prices by choosing later travel dates. 

For example, you can find a drop of at least 20% in average nightly rates for vacation homes in popular destinations like Cape Cod, Massachusetts; Cape May, New Jersey; and Ocean City, Maryland, in August through October compared to prime summer travel dates.  

See familiar places in new ways and enjoy a change in scenery

This is an infographic about the reasons families want to travel in the late summer and fall this year.  

Traveling during a different time of year lets you see favorite destinations from a different perspective. It’s a chance to create new family experiences together, like seeing the leaves change colors or visiting the beach when temperatures are milder. 

According to a study from New York University, people feel happier when they have more variety in their daily routines, such as going to novel places and having a wider array of experiences. After months of staying at home, a flexcation may be an ideal way to reestablish a healthy sense of balance. 

Stay longer

This is an infographic about an increase in interest for longer vacation home stays.

Travel data from Vrbo indicates families also want to take longer vacations. With the ability to work remotely or complete online assignments anywhere there’s a Wi-Fi connection, there’s no need to cut a weekend trip short to get back in time for class or punch the clock on Monday morning. If a full week isn’t realistic, you might consider an extra-long weekend, extending your trip from Thursday to Monday instead of the more traditional Friday to Sunday. 

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