Burnt-out workers are booking all-inclusives (and splurging on ‘Euro summers’)

For the second year in a row, workplace burnout is reshaping how employees approach summer travel, but their destination of choice has shifted. Too mentally drained to tackle complex logistics, workers are dreaming bigger this year, with Euro Summer pulling ahead as the top pick.

We asked Glassdoor Community users about their ideal summer getaway, and the results reveal a clear shift in priorities. Nearly 4 in 10 said Euro Summer — up from last year's top pick of all-inclusive resorts and cruises, which came in second place at 24% this time around. But with a challenging economy as the backdrop, others are keeping it closer to home with more budget-friendly vacations, opting for a quiet cabin retreat or a spontaneous road trip instead. 

The backstory: While mentions of burnout in Glassdoor reviews continued to climb, rising 65% year-over-year in Q1 2026, workers aren't skipping their PTO (paid time off). Our latest polls show they're still taking it — with 59% of professionals saying the economy isn't affecting their PTO plans*.

“I'm not going to cancel my travel and take a loss in the form of cancellation fees. Rather, I'll disconnect completely and enjoy my well-deserved time off.” - Director 1

“Go big or go home. I save up specifically so my vacation isn't also a reminder of the job market/economy.” - Associate 1

The reality check: Even though the majority of poll respondents still plan to travel, that doesn't mean they are overlooking an uncertain economy. The remaining 37% said they're actually taking more budget-conscious vacations or staycations. Despite economic instability, many workers are prioritizing mental health over financial security to escape workplace burnout.

How workers are paying: While a “Euro summer” trip could be pretty pricey, all-inclusives and cruises are mostly plan-free trips that often offer payment plans. In a separate poll, we found that 47% of workers are using their savings to fund these summer breaks. 

Glassdoor Community members chimed in with a few other ways they’re saving up this year — from travel points to bonus money. 

“I’ve got the travel itch, too, but rent keeps eating my vacation fund. I just toss a little aside whenever I can. It’s slow, but at least it’s something to look forward to.” - a TJX employee

“I pay my rent on my credit card for travel points... that's the only way I get to travel…” - Associate 1

We tapped our senior economist, Chris Martin, to shed light on the financial sources workers are using the most for their summer escapes.

“Using savings for a vacation can be a rational response to burnout, even though dipping into savings is typically discouraged. When workers dip into savings for a vacation, they are showing that they need it now more than they thought they would  – even if it comes at the expense of their future selves,” he said.

Low-budget mental breaks: If you haven’t quite saved enough for an all-out summer getaway, or you’re uncomfortable with big (or medium) travel, Community users have some wallet-friendly alternatives. 

“My summer trip will be a group camping trip, driving distance from home. It's not fancy, but the important part is time away, with friends, exploring and enjoying the change in routine.” - a Worklife bowl member

“No summer travel this year. My fall trips will all be put on the card and promptly paid off so I get miles for them.” - Email Marketing Manager 1

“My vacations have always been low-budget couchsurfing affairs or rejuvenating staycations.” - PwC 1

If these suggestions leave you yearning for a “Euro summer,” one user suggests waiting for a “Euro fall,” instead, to save a bit and avoid the summer crowds. 

“I really like the adventure-packed trips out in nature in the summertime…I prefer to do Europe in the fall when things are less busy and tropical destinations in the winter.” - Senior Manager 1

Join the conversation around summer travel on Glassdoor Community. 

Methodology:

*The poll ran from April 3, 2026 through April 7, 2026 and was answered by over 1500 US professionals. Respondents could answer with either "Yes" or "No" to the question, "Does the state of the economy and job market impact your PTO plans?"