Let’s be real: when you work 9–5, it can feel like travel is reserved for influencers, freelancers, or people who magically have unlimited time off. But truthfully, you don’t need to quit your job or wait until retirement to see the world. You need to get a little strategic. Travel must not be extravagant or far-flung; it must be intentional. The trick? Start by rethinking your calendar. Scan the year for long weekends, public holidays, and even those slow work months when using PTO won’t cause chaos. Add a Friday or Monday to turn a two-day weekend into a full-blown escape. Short flights, road trips, or even exploring a fabulous city just a few hours away can make those quick getaways feel like fresh air.

Now here’s where the planning hacks come in. First, set travel alerts with apps like Google Flights or Hopper, which’ll let you know when prices drop so you can grab deals without constantly checking. Use a shared calendar (yes, even just with yourself) to block out tentative “travel weekends” throughout the year. It doesn’t guarantee you’ll go, but it keeps the possibility alive, and trust me, half the battle is just making space for it. If you travel with friends or a partner, have a group chat or shared doc where you keep Wishlist destinations, possible dates, and deals you find. Spontaneity is fun, but being low-key organized? That’s how you travel often. Also, don’t underestimate the power of the “workcation”  if you can work remotely for a few days, consider tacking on a weekend to a different city and log on with a new view.

Travel doesn’t have to be an escape from your 9–5; it can make your 9–5 feel more manageable and worth it. Even a two-day trip can give you a new perspective, shake off the routine, and remind yourself that life isn’t just about surviving the workweek. With creativity, thoughtful planning, and a willingness to claim your time back, you’ll be surprised how much of the world you can explore even with a full-time job.