Planning a vacation and want to sound like a seasoned traveler? Look no further! We’ve gathered a list of the hottest vacation slang words and phrases that will have you blending in with the locals in no time. From beach getaways to city breaks, this listicle has got you covered. So sit back, relax, and get ready to take your vacation game to the next level with our ultimate guide to vacation slang!
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1. Vacay
“Vacay” is a slang term used to refer to a vacation or time off from work or school. It is often used in a casual and playful manner.
- For example, “I’m going on a much-needed vacay to the beach next week.”
- A friend might ask, “Where are you going for your vacay?”
- Someone might say, “I need a break from work, time for a vacay!”
2. Vaycay
Similar to “vacay,” “vaycay” is another slang term used to refer to a vacation or time off. It is often used in a more lighthearted and whimsical manner.
- For example, “I’m going on a vaycay to Europe next month.”
- A friend might ask, “How was your vaycay to the mountains?”
- Someone might say, “I need a vaycay to recharge and relax.”
3. Retreat
A retreat refers to a period of time when someone takes a break from their normal routine or responsibilities to relax or engage in activities that promote well-being and rejuvenation. It can also refer to a place where this break or relaxation takes place.
- For example, “I’m going on a weekend retreat to a cabin in the mountains.”
- A person might say, “I need a retreat to recharge and clear my mind.”
- In a discussion about self-care, someone might suggest, “Taking regular retreats can help reduce stress and improve overall mental health.”
4. Hols
Hols is a slang term for holidays, which refers to a period of time when people take a break from work or school to relax or engage in leisure activities. It can also refer to specific days or occasions that are recognized as public holidays.
- For instance, “I’m going on hols to a tropical island next week.”
- Someone might ask, “What are your plans for the hols?”
- In a conversation about travel, a person might say, “I love going on hols to explore new places and cultures.”
5. Spring Break
Spring break is a period of time when students and sometimes adults take a break from their academic or work responsibilities to relax or engage in leisure activities. It usually occurs during the spring semester or around the Easter holiday.
- For example, “I’m going to Cancun for spring break with my friends.”
- A college student might say, “I can’t wait for spring break to unwind and have some fun.”
- In a discussion about travel destinations, someone might suggest, “If you’re looking for a party atmosphere, consider popular spring break destinations like Miami or Cabo San Lucas.”
6. Run of the Mill
Run of the mill is a phrase used to describe something that is ordinary, typical, or average. In the context of vacation, it can refer to a trip or experience that is common or unremarkable.
- For instance, “We had a run of the mill vacation at a beach resort.”
- A person might say, “I’m looking for something more unique and exciting for my next vacation, not just run of the mill.”
- In a conversation about travel experiences, someone might share, “I’ve had my fair share of run of the mill vacations, but my most memorable trips were the ones that pushed me out of my comfort zone.”
7. Sabbatical
A sabbatical refers to an extended break from work or academic responsibilities, often granted to professionals or academics to pursue personal interests, research, or professional development. It is a period of time when someone temporarily steps away from their usual duties.
- For example, “She took a sabbatical from her job to travel the world.”
- A professor might say, “I’m planning to take a sabbatical next year to work on a book.”
- In a discussion about work-life balance, someone might suggest, “Consider taking a sabbatical to recharge and gain new perspectives.”
8. Recess
This term refers to taking a break or time off from work or school. It implies a temporary period of relaxation or leisure.
- For example, a person might say, “I can’t wait for summer vacation. I really need a recess from work.”
- In a conversation about taking time off, someone might ask, “When are you planning to have your recess?”
- A friend might suggest, “Let’s go on a road trip during our recess and explore new places.”
9. Take a Dip
This phrase means to go swimming or to take a swim. It is often used in a casual or informal context.
- For instance, someone might say, “The weather is so hot. Let’s take a dip in the pool to cool off.”
- In a discussion about beach activities, a person might ask, “Are you planning to take a dip in the ocean?”
- A friend might suggest, “Let’s find a nearby lake and take a dip in its clear waters.”
10. To Be Off
This expression means to be on vacation or to be away from work or regular responsibilities.
- For example, a person might say, “I won’t be available next week. I’ll be off on vacation.”
- In a conversation about travel plans, someone might ask, “When are you planning to be off?”
- A friend might mention, “I love being off and exploring new destinations.”
11. Travel on a Shoestring
This phrase means to travel with a limited amount of money or on a tight budget. It implies finding affordable options and making economical choices.
- For instance, someone might say, “I want to travel on a shoestring and still have a great experience.”
- In a discussion about travel tips, a person might ask, “Do you have any advice for traveling on a shoestring?”
- A friend might suggest, “Let’s plan a trip where we can travel on a shoestring and save money for other activities.”
12. R&R
This abbreviation stands for “Rest and Relaxation” and refers to taking time off to rest and recharge. It implies a break from daily routines and responsibilities.
- For example, a person might say, “I need some R&R after a long and stressful week.”
- In a conversation about vacation plans, someone might ask, “What are your plans for R&R?”
- A friend might suggest, “Let’s go to a spa and enjoy some R&R together.”
13. Holiday
A period of time off work or school for rest, relaxation, or travel. “Holiday” is a commonly used term in British English, while “vacation” is more commonly used in American English.
- For example, “I’m going on holiday to Spain next week.”
- A person might say, “I need a holiday to recharge and destress.”
- Another might ask, “Where are you going for your holiday this year?”
14. Escape
A break from everyday life or routine, often involving travel or leisure activities. “Escape” implies getting away from one’s usual environment or responsibilities.
- For instance, “I need to escape to the beach for a few days.”
- A person might say, “I’m planning an escape to the mountains to enjoy nature.”
- Another might exclaim, “I can’t wait for my escape to the tropical paradise!”
15. Journey
A trip or voyage from one place to another. “Journey” often implies a longer or more significant travel experience.
- For example, “I embarked on a spiritual journey to India.”
- A person might say, “Life is a journey, and each vacation is a new chapter.”
- Another might reflect, “The journey is just as important as the destination.”
16. Adventure
An exciting or daring experience, often involving exploration or unusual activities. “Adventure” suggests a vacation filled with thrilling or memorable moments.
- For instance, “I’m craving an adventure in the Amazon rainforest.”
- A person might say, “I want to embark on an adventure and try something new.”
- Another might declare, “Life is meant for adventures, so let’s go on one!”
17. Trip
A journey or excursion, often for pleasure or leisure. “Trip” is a general term used to describe any type of vacation or travel experience.
- For example, “I’m planning a road trip across the country.”
- A person might say, “I had an amazing trip to Europe last summer.”
- Another might ask, “What’s your favorite memory from your trip?”
18. Time off
“I need some time off to relax and recharge.” – “I’m taking a week of time off to go on a beach vacation.” – “I haven’t had any time off in months, I really need a break.”
19. Leave
“I’m planning to take a week of leave next month.” – “She’s on maternity leave for six months.” – “He was granted two weeks of leave to go on a family vacation.”
20. Downtime
“I love to spend my downtime reading a good book.” – “After a busy week, I like to have some downtime to unwind.” – “I’m looking forward to some downtime during my vacation.”
21. Day off
“I’m taking a day off to go hiking with friends.” – “She has three days off next week, so we’re planning a mini vacation.” – “I need a mental health day off to recharge and take care of myself.”
22. Breather
“I need a breather from all the stress at work.” – “I took a breather and went for a walk outside to clear my mind.” – “Sometimes all you need is a quick breather to refocus and re-energize.”
23. Mini-break
A mini-break refers to a short vacation or getaway that typically lasts for a few days or a long weekend. It is a chance to take a break from work or daily routine and relax.
- For example, “I need a mini-break to recharge and destress.”
- A person might say, “Let’s plan a mini-break to a beach resort.”
- Another might suggest, “Why don’t we take a mini-break and explore a nearby city?”
24. Weekend getaway
A weekend getaway is a short trip or vacation that takes place over the weekend. It is a chance to escape from the usual routine and explore new places or engage in leisure activities.
- For instance, “I’m planning a weekend getaway to the mountains.”
- A person might say, “Let’s go on a weekend getaway to a nearby beach.”
- Another might suggest, “We should plan a weekend getaway to a cabin in the woods.”
25. Time out
Taking a time out refers to taking a pause or break from work or daily routine. It is a chance to relax, unwind, and rejuvenate.
- For example, “I need to take a time out and go on a vacation.”
- A person might say, “I’m feeling overwhelmed. I need to take a time out and recharge.”
- Another might suggest, “Why don’t you take a time out and do something you enjoy?”
26. B&B
B&B stands for Bed and Breakfast, which refers to a type of accommodation where guests stay overnight and are provided with a bed to sleep in and breakfast in the morning. It is a popular option for travelers who prefer a cozy and homely atmosphere.
- For instance, “We stayed at a charming B&B in the countryside.”
- A person might say, “I love the personalized experience of staying at a B&B.”
- Another might suggest, “Let’s book a B&B for our next vacation.”
27. Hit the Road
To hit the road means to start a journey or road trip. It implies embarking on an adventure or traveling to a new destination.
- For example, “It’s time to hit the road and explore new places.”
- A person might say, “Let’s pack our bags and hit the road for a spontaneous trip.”
- Another might suggest, “I’m tired of the city. Let’s hit the road and escape to the countryside.”
28. Shine Up to Someone
To “shine up” to someone means to flirt with them or try to impress them, usually in a romantic or charming way.
- For example, “She’s been shining up to him all night, trying to get his attention.”
- In a group of friends, someone might tease, “Look at you, shining up to the cute bartender.”
- A person might confess, “I can’t help but shine up to someone when I’m interested in them.”