Financial woes cramp vacation plans

05.20.09
By Nicholas Storie

Credit card debt, looming foreclosure and rebuilding lost savings are just a few of the financial struggles Americans may be facing. Those financial woes could also be a reason fewer families are taking vacations this year.

However, given the increased stress many are feeling in the workplace, experts are recommending taking some time off - if you can - to reinvigorate yourself. Many believe that a relaxing time off could spur increased performance and productivity after returning to work.

A poll conducted by CareerBuilder revealed that 35 percent of workers either haven't taken a vacation or are not planning to take one this year and almost three-fourths of those people say that money is the reason holding them back.

"While the current economy may be causing workers anxiety about taking a vacation this year, a break from work is essential for maintaining healthy productivity levels in the office," said Rosemary Haefner, vice president of human resources at CareerBuilder.

But many fear that if they take a vacation, it could lead to them losing their job. CareerBuilder says that one in five workers feel guilty about being away from the office or have anxiety that they will lose their job if they take time off.

Even those families living on a much tighter budget may find some less expensive options to get away - if they ultimately decide to ask for the time off from work.

Travel sites are offering a number of vacation packages and deals - with proper planning it could be possible to leave work guilt-free and at the same time avoid racking up additional credit card debt.

The idea of a staycation - or vacationing with your family in your own backyard or somewhere close to home - garnered increased interest last year and remains a popular idea for households working on their debt management.

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Stress at work means some are cancelling vacation plans