Maximize your time off with KAYAK’s PTO Calculator.

The average American has 11 days of PTO each year. While that’s hardly enough (looking longingly at you, Europe), we figured out how to maximize your time away from the office (and stay on budget). By combining days off with public holidays, all while using the shoulder seasons to find great deals, you can actually triple your vacation time.

Turn 11 PTO days into 31 days away from the office.

May

May is your time to shine. Combine your days off with Memorial Day to spend an amazing 9 days away from the office by only using 4 PTO days.

Trip idea: Winery-hopping in the Lone Star State

Your vacation calls for wildflowers and wine. Head to Texas Hill Country to take in the stunning wildflowers and experience award-winning wineries.

July

Since the Fourth of July falls on a Thursday, take the day before and after off to rocket your way into a 5-day weekend.

Trip idea: For extra fun, add water.

From kayaking to surfing to swimming holes, you’ll find plenty of activities for your summer vacation.

Now that you’ve got your travel dates down, check out our out-of-office generator so you can leave knowing you have the perfect OOO.

Out-of-office generator

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September

Take the day after Labor Day off to transition straight into the fall season.

Trip ideas: Get inspired

Spend your trip discovering a new band or artist. Catch live music at a local venue or festival.

November

Conserve your final PTO for early November before prices increase over Thanksgiving and into December. Take the Friday before Veteran’s Day off to plan a preventative stress-free vacation that is free of relatives.

Trip idea: Put your treads to the test.

All you need are hiking boots. Head to Guadalupe Mountains National Park to tackle the McKittrick Canyon and take in stunning views.

Get ahead of your 2025 trips.

January

Take days off before Martin Luther King Jr. Day to get some long weekend plans on the books.

Trip idea: Visit Monahan Sandhills State Park.

It’s time for adventure. Experience a different side of Texas at Monahan Sandhills State Park where you can sandsurf, horseback ride and explore the trails

February

March and April have no public holidays making February time off ultra important. Take the Friday before Presidents’ Day off and enjoy your 4-day weekend in a new location.

See more of what Texas has to offer.

Discover

How to turn 11 days of PTO into 31.