Let’s face it: PTO days are gold. With just a little planning, you can stretch them way further than you might think, turning 2025 into a year full of long weekends, relaxing getaways, and even ticking off items from your bucket list. At GoodNight Stay, we’re all about making the most of your vacations and holidays, so we’ve put together a practical guide to help you maximize your time off by combining your PTO with holidays!
It’s a trick that many people overlook, but it can seriously extend your time to recharge. For example, if a holiday falls on a Tuesday, take Monday off, and boom—you’ve got yourself a long weekend. Or, if the holiday lands on a Friday or Monday, adding an extra day can turn it into an even longer escape! Many of the holidays in 2025 fall on Mondays and Fridays, making it the perfect opportunity to take those well-deserved vacations or finally cross off something from your bucket list. These simple tweaks really add up, giving you more chances to unwind and explore all year long. So, take a look at the tips below and start marking your 2025 calendar for a year of well-earned rest, adventure, and relaxation.
January: Start the Year Strong
Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Monday, Jan 20)
Kick off the new year with a 4-day weekend by taking off either Friday, Jan 17, or Tuesday, Jan 21. Whether it’s a mini road trip, cozying up at home, or a quick getaway, this is your first chance to recharge. It’s the perfect time to start the year on the right note!
February: Extend the Love and the Weekend
President’s Day (Monday, Feb 17)
If your state observes President’s Day, take Friday, Feb 14, or Tuesday, Feb 18, off for an extended Valentine’s weekend. Whether you’re celebrating with a romantic getaway or a relaxing solo retreat, it’s a great excuse to escape the everyday and enjoy a little extra time to unwind.
May: Spring into Memorial Day
Memorial Day (Monday, May 26)
For a 5-day break, take Friday, May 23, and Tuesday, May 27, off. With spring weather in full bloom, it’s the ideal time for an outdoor adventure or just enjoying some quiet time at home. This long weekend is perfect for recharging before summer’s hustle and bustle begins.
June: Celebrate Freedom and Rest
Juneteenth (Thursday, June 19)
Add Friday, June 20, to your calendar for a 4-day weekend. It’s the perfect time for a mini staycation or a lake day with friends. This summer vibe is sure to keep you refreshed and relaxed.
July: Fireworks and Freedom
Independence Day (Friday, July 4)
Take Thursday, July 3, off for a 4-day weekend, or add Monday, July 7, for a 5-day escape. Whether you’re attending fireworks shows or just enjoying a relaxing weekend, summer vibes are guaranteed.
September: Labor Day—The Ultimate PTO Hack
Labor Day (Monday, Sept 1)
Here’s where it gets real good. Use just four PTO days (Sept 2-5) and unlock 9 consecutive days off from Aug 30-Sept 8. This is the time for that bucket-list trip or to finally cross off those home projects you’ve been procrastinating. Either way, it’s a perfect chance to take a well-earned break.
October: Fall for Columbus Day
Columbus Day (Monday, Oct 13)
Take Tuesday, Oct 14, off for a relaxing 4-day weekend. With fall foliage at its peak, this is a perfect time to enjoy the crisp air and beautiful scenery. Whether you’re heading out of town or enjoying a peaceful retreat at home, it’s an ideal time to refresh.
November: Grateful for Veterans Day
Veterans Day (Tuesday, Nov 11)
Add Monday, Nov 10, to your time-off plan for another 4-day weekend. Whether you’re getting a jumpstart on Thanksgiving prep or just enjoying some time for yourself, this is a great way to unwind before the holiday rush.
Thanksgiving (Thursday, Nov 27)
Take Wednesday, Nov 26, off, and if your workplace doesn’t automatically give you Black Friday, add that as well. You’ll enjoy a cozy 5-day weekend—ample time for relaxation, food, and family fun.
December: Holiday Extravaganza
Christmas (Thursday, Dec 25)
Use PTO for Tuesday, Dec 23, and Friday, Dec 26, to create a 6-day holiday oasis. Want to end the year with a bang? Use 3 more days (Dec 29, 30, and 31) and enjoy almost two full weeks off. It’s the perfect way to close out the year feeling refreshed and ready for 2026!
Pro Tips for PTO Optimization
If you really want to make the most of your PTO, planning ahead is a total game changer. Trust me, those popular dates fill up fast, so getting your time off locked in early means you won’t have to stress about missing out on your preferred vacation days. Plus, you’ll have the flexibility to adjust your plans if something pops up last minute.
Another tip? Mix it up! Don’t save all your PTO for one big trip. By alternating between long weekends and a few extended vacations throughout the year, you’ll help keep burnout at bay. Little breaks here and there can work wonders and keep you feeling recharged, even if your next big adventure is a few months down the road.
Lastly, try to stay flexible. Life happens, and sometimes plans change. But if you’ve already planned your time off, shifting things around becomes way easier without losing out on those much-needed days to relax. Plus, you can always roll over any unused days into next year, so you’re never really without options. It’s all about staying relaxed and making sure you get the time to recharge when you need it most.
Here’s to making 2025 the year of work-life balance—on your terms. Whether it’s a quiet day at home, a spontaneous road trip, or a far-off adventure, your well-earned PTO days are waiting to be used wisely. Ready to book your next getaway? GoodNight Stay offers a home wherever you go, so be sure to check out all the amazing locations we’re at to make the most of your time off.
Where will your time off take you?
