Eager to Travel in 2022? 5 Reasons to Take a Beach Flexcation

If you want to travel more in 2022, a flexcation may be your answer.

In late 2021, it seemed world travel was opening up and it was safe to plan our next family vacation, but the world’s health situation shifted yet again. Sharp increases in COVID-19 cases, travel restrictions, flight cancellations, and new CDC protocols seem to undermine our planned adventures. That’s why the concept of “flexcation” continues to gain popularity and could be your solution this year.

This article contains affiliate links. We earn from qualifying purchases.

We are partnering with Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism to bring you this last piece in a four-part series on Beach Flexcations. I’m not sure I could choose a better location to unwind for an extended period than the Gulf beaches. There’s sun, sugar-white sand, and the temptation of never-ending seafood.

But before I give you reasons to visit the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area, let’s start with what it is and why it’s so popular with families in 2022.

What is a Flexcation?

A Flexcation is a flexible vacation. FlexCations are short-term stays, usually 4-12 weeks, where you can work remotely and set your own schedule, yet enjoy the benefits of extended family time together.

Working remotely became the norm for many families in 2020, and this traveling trend has been picking up steam ever since. Flexcations meet the dual needs of parents who want to (or must) work at “home” but want to spend more time with their families. A Flexcation offers you the chance to work remotely while still having the family together for extended periods of time. Plus for children learning remotely as well, it is the best of both worlds.

VRBO Family Travel Survey Results

VRBO conducted a nationwide survey of families and drew the following conclusions that directly relate to the trend of taking a flexcation:

• 67% of those surveyed said “I just need a change of scenery” when asked why they might take a family vacation.
• 50% of respondents agreed that flexible school schedules and remote learning opportunities provide more flexibility in taking a vacation.
• 48% of respondents said they could work remotely from anywhere.
• 21% of respondents said working remotely from anywhere created numerous travel opportunities.

Why Should You Take a Flexcation?

There are so many things to get excited about when it comes to taking a flexcation. Here are just a few reasons why you should take one this year:

Save your vacation days and PTO

Not everyone can afford to quit their job, take off on a long trip and not work for weeks or months at a time. Many professionals must rely on vacation days or personal time off (PTO) for extended vacations. Flexcations bridge the gap between traditional vacation time and extended travel. Because flexcations are work-related, you can earn your salary, but still, extend your time away from the office without sacrificing any PTO.

Try something new

Flexcations allow you and your family the opportunity to try something new. Many of us take annual vacations, but we tend to go somewhere that we’ve been before. You can travel to a new destination or participate in an activity that you’ve always wanted to try. Being in the area for an extended time also always you to relax more and discover more than just the tourist attractions. You can really dive deep and recharge!

Save money on travel costs by living like a local

One of the draws of this type of family vacation is you can experience what it’s like to live like a local. You’ll save on some travel expenses because you’ll be able to cook some of your meals and short-term rentals are typically less expensive than hotels. If you travel in a shoulder season, rates are typically lower as well. Plus beach vacations provide countless opportunities for outdoor adventure too for little to no coast.

Spend quality time together

Many families take separate vacations, but a flexcation is a great opportunity for the family to spend some quality time together. Because you’re spending more time in one place, you’ll have the chance to see your children off on their daily activities and even participate with them. This may be just what your family needs to get closer and spend more quality time together.

Expand your horizons

By taking an extended vacation, you have access to so many different destinations and experiences, plus expose yourself to new cultures and people. You can learn so much about another culture by visiting their home city or country for an extended period of time. This is an amazing way for you to gain new perspectives and experience things you won’t normally have access to.

Why Take an Alabama Beach Flexcation?

Alabama beaches are beautiful, pristine places that have so much to offer. From family-friendly attractions for young children all the way up to adults, you’re sure to find something fun for everyone.

If you choose Alabama as your destination, there are several things you’ll want to keep in mind:

• The sun shines about 300 days out of the year.
• The beaches have more than 300 miles of shoreline.
• There are hundreds of hotels, resorts and rental homes that cater to families, large groups and all budgets.
• The shoulder season is an ideal time to travel because lodging rates are typically lower and the weather is still pleasant.
• Alabama beaches boast some of the best seafood in the world—and we’re not just talking about oysters! Grits, flounder and shrimp are just a few of the dishes you’ll want to try while you’re here.
• Alabama has so much to offer- from the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, to beaches on Dauphin Island, Fort Morgan, and even as far as Atmore.

Read the other articles in our Alabama Beach FlexCation Series:

• Things to Do in Fort Morgan, Alabama
• 25 Things to Do in Gulf Shores with Kids
• 5 Best Local Coffee Shops in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

This type of family vacation offers unique benefits and opportunities, plus it’s an adventure you’ll never forget. It’s a great way for you and your family to spend more time together doing things that interest you and learning about the world around you. The flexcation is the perfect vacation option for families who value quality over quantity of time away from work.