Slang For Vacation (50 Examples!)


In our fast-paced world, the moments we step away from the daily grind to breathe, explore, and relax are not just necessary; they’re cherished.

Whether it’s a quick “weekender” to recharge, an adventurous “voyage” across the seas, or a cozy “staycation” at home, vacations come in all shapes and sizes.

Each term we use – from “vacay” to “wanderlust” – carries with it the promise of escape and the joy of discovery.

So, let’s dive into the colorful lexicon of leisure and travel, exploring the many ways we talk about taking time off.

From the anticipation of a “winter break” to the thrill of an “odyssey,” these terms paint a vivid picture of our quest for rest, adventure, and everything in between.

Let’s get started!

Slang For Vacation

 

Slang For Vacation

Adventure

Going on an exciting or unusual experience.

Examples in sentences:

  • “We’re planning our next big adventure to the Amazon rainforest.”
  • “Every summer, we pack our bags in search of a new adventure.”
  • “Our trip to the mountains turned into quite the adventure when we got lost.”
  • “Life’s too short not to go on adventures and discover the world.”
  • “Their honeymoon was an adventure across several European countries.”

 

Break

A period of time when you take a rest from your usual activities or work.

Examples in sentences:

  • “I’m counting down the days until our break at the beach.”
  • “Spring break is the perfect time to unwind and recharge.”
  • “Taking a break from work to focus on personal projects.”
  • “We all need a break now and then to keep our sanity.”
  • “The Christmas break couldn’t come soon enough for tired students and teachers.”

 

Breather

A short break from activity for rest or relief.

Examples in sentences:

  • “Let’s take a breather from all this sightseeing and grab a coffee.”
  • “After the project’s completion, the team deserved a well-earned breather.”
  • “A weekend getaway is the perfect breather from the hustle of city life.”
  • “Sometimes, just stepping outside for a breather can refresh your mind.”
  • “During our hike, we stopped for a breather to enjoy the stunning views.”

 

City Break

A short holiday spent in a city, often over a weekend.

Examples in sentences:

  • “We’re going on a city break to New York to see the sights and catch a Broadway show.”
  • “City breaks are my favorite way to explore new cultures without taking too much time off.”
  • “Booked a last-minute city break to Paris for some shopping and fine dining.”
  • “A city break in Rome is the perfect blend of history, art, and delicious food.”
  • “They love taking city breaks to recharge without venturing too far from home.”

 

Downtime

Time during which a person can relax or rest, away from work or obligations.

Examples in sentences:

  • “Looking forward to some downtime this weekend to just read and relax.”
  • “After the conference, she took some downtime to explore the city.”
  • “Downtime is essential for our mental health and well-being.”
  • “He uses his downtime to pursue hobbies like painting and cycling.”
  • “The holiday season is the perfect opportunity for some much-needed downtime.”

 

Escape

A getaway from daily routines or stresses.

Examples in sentences:

  • “Our tropical island escape was exactly what we needed to recharge.”
  • “Weekends are perfect for a quick escape to the countryside.”
  • “She booked a cabin in the woods for a solitary escape from city life.”
  • “Their annual ski trip is an escape to a winter wonderland.”
  • “Planning an escape to Europe has been their dream for years.”

 

Excursion

A short journey or trip, especially one engaged in as a leisure activity.

Examples in sentences:

  • “The school organized an educational excursion to the museum.”
  • “We went on a day-long excursion to see the ancient ruins.”
  • “Their cruise included several exciting shore excursions.”
  • “A weekend excursion to the mountains was the perfect getaway.”
  • “They offer guided excursions through the national park.”

 

Expedition

An adventure or exploration, often involving a group and significant travel.

Examples in sentences:

  • “He’s always dreamed of leading an expedition to the Amazon rainforest.”
  • “Their Antarctic expedition was a journey of scientific discovery.”
  • “Joining an expedition to climb Mount Everest is the ultimate adventure.”
  • “The documentary followed a wildlife expedition in Africa.”
  • “They embarked on a sailing expedition around the world.”

 

Furlough

A leave of absence, especially granted to a member of the armed services, or a temporary layoff from work; sometimes used to describe a break or vacation.

Examples in sentences:

  • “He spent his furlough traveling across Europe, soaking in every experience.”
  • “During the furlough, she took the opportunity to visit family and reconnect.”
  • “The factory workers used the unexpected furlough to take a well-deserved break.”
  • “His military furlough was a brief but joyful time spent at home.”
  • “They planned a quick getaway to make the most of the furlough.”

 

Gap Year

A year spent traveling, working, or studying before continuing academic studies, often seen as a break or adventure.

Examples in sentences:

  • “She spent her gap year volunteering in South America, learning a lot about herself and the world.”
  • “Taking a gap year to travel Europe was the best decision he ever made.”
  • “Many students choose to take a gap year to gain work experience or explore their interests.”
  • “Her gap year adventures included teaching English in Asia and backpacking through New Zealand.”
  • “A gap year can provide valuable life experiences that shape your future.”

 

Getaway

A brief vacation or escape from routine.

Examples in sentences:

  • “We’re planning a weekend getaway to the beach to unwind.”
  • “Their mountain cabin is the perfect spot for a quiet getaway.”
  • “After months of hard work, a tropical getaway sounded like paradise.”
  • “They surprised their parents with a getaway to their favorite vineyard.”
  • “Booking a last-minute getaway was the best spontaneous decision they made.”

 

Grand Tour

Traditionally, an extended visit to the major cultural sites of Europe, often undertaken by young adults from aristocratic families; now used more broadly for any extensive trip.

Examples in sentences:

  • “After graduation, she embarked on her own version of the Grand Tour, visiting museums and historical sites.”
  • “Their retirement plan included a grand tour of Asia’s most iconic landmarks.”
  • “He documented his grand tour across Europe in a series of blog posts.”
  • “The couple saved for years to give their family a grand tour experience.”
  • “Completing the grand tour was a rite of passage for young travelers in the past.”

 

Hiatus

A break or interruption in the continuity of work, series, or action.

Examples in sentences:

  • “She took a hiatus from her job to travel the world and find new inspiration.”
  • “The band announced a hiatus to focus on their personal lives but promised a strong return.”
  • “After the project ended, he enjoyed a well-deserved hiatus before diving into the next challenge.”
  • “Their travel blog went on hiatus as they settled into their new home abroad.”
  • “Taking a hiatus helped her recharge and refocus on her career goals.”

 

Holibobs

A playful, informal term for holidays or vacations, particularly popular in the UK.

Examples in sentences:

  • “Just booked our holibobs to Greece, can’t wait for the sunshine!”
  • “Counting down the days until our holibobs; the kids are buzzing with excitement.”
  • “Our annual holibobs are the highlight of our year, always exploring somewhere new.”
  • “Packing for our holibobs has got to be my least favorite part, but it’s always worth it.”
  • “Scrolling through photos of last year’s holibobs and dreaming of the next adventure.”

 

Holiday

A period of time spent away from home or business in travel or recreation.

Examples in sentences:

  • “We’re heading to Spain for our holiday this year, looking forward to the beaches.”
  • “The holiday season is the perfect time for a ski trip to the mountains.”
  • “Every summer holiday, we visit family in the countryside.”
  • “She’s taking a solo holiday to recharge and explore on her own terms.”
  • “Planning a holiday around food destinations is our favorite way to travel.”

 

Interlude

A brief, intervening period of time, often used for a short break or escape.

Examples in sentences:

  • “Taking a weekend interlude to the countryside to breathe some fresh air.”
  • “The holiday season provided a much-needed interlude from the hectic work schedule.”
  • “Their romantic interlude in Paris was a chapter they’d always cherish.”
  • “A sunny beach interlude was the perfect antidote to the winter blues.”
  • “He planned a surprise interlude for their anniversary, complete with spa treatments.”

 

Jaunt

A short excursion or journey for pleasure.

Examples in sentences:

  • “Their afternoon jaunt through the city uncovered many hidden gems.”
  • “Weekend jaunts to nearby towns became their favorite hobby.”
  • “A quick jaunt to the coast was all they needed to reset.”
  • “They enjoyed a leisurely jaunt around the lake on rented bicycles.”
  • “The couple’s jaunt through Europe was filled with unexpected adventures.”

 

Jolly

A British term for a trip, party, or outing, often implying fun and enjoyment.

Examples in sentences:

  • “The office is organizing a Christmas jolly to celebrate the year’s success.”
  • “They went on a jolly to the seaside, enjoying the sun, sand, and sea.”
  • “A weekend jolly with friends is just what I need to unwind.”
  • “Remember our jolly to Brighton? That was an unforgettable trip!”
  • “The annual fishing jolly was a tradition they all looked forward to.”

 

Junket

An excursion or trip, often for pleasure at public expense, or a promotional trip made at another’s expense.

Examples in sentences:

  • “He was invited on a junket to the new resort, all expenses paid.”
  • “The film festival turned out to be more of a junket for celebrities than for fans.”
  • “A senator’s controversial junket to a luxury island sparked debate.”
  • “The company organized a junket for journalists to showcase their new facility.”
  • “Her job sometimes offers the perk of going on international junkets.”

 

Layoff

Used informally to refer to a period of enforced absence from work, sometimes used humorously to refer to taking time off.

Examples in sentences:

  • “Decided to treat the layoff as an unexpected vacation to catch up on personal projects.”
  • “During the layoff, he discovered a new passion for gardening.”
  • “The layoff provided her with the time she needed to rethink her career path.”
  • “They used the layoff period to travel and explore new cultures.”
  • “The unexpected layoff turned into a blessing in disguise, offering much-needed downtime.”

 

Leave

A period of time away from work granted by an employer.

Examples in sentences:

  • “He’s taking his annual leave to go backpacking across Asia.”
  • “She finally applied for her leave, planning a quiet retreat to the countryside.”
  • “During his leave, he volunteered at a local animal shelter and found it rewarding.”
  • “They’re on leave next week for a family reunion.”
  • “I need to schedule my leave around the kids’ school holidays.”

 

Leave of Absence

A formally approved period away from work, often for personal reasons, health, or study.

Examples in sentences:

  • “She’s on a leave of absence to complete her master’s degree.”
  • “After his surgery, he took a leave of absence to recover at home.”
  • “Taking a leave of absence was the best decision for her mental health.”
  • “He requested a leave of absence to care for his elderly parents.”
  • “During her leave of absence, she traveled to learn new languages.”

 

Leisure Time

Free time spent away from work and domestic chores, engaging in enjoyable activities.

Examples in sentences:

  • “Weekends are my leisure time, reserved for hiking and being in nature.”
  • “She dedicates her leisure time to painting and creative writing.”
  • “Finding leisure time can be challenging, but it’s essential for well-being.”
  • “They use their leisure time to explore new restaurants and cuisines.”
  • “His leisure time is spent mastering the art of woodworking.”

 

Mini-Break

A short holiday, typically over a weekend or a few days, to relax and unwind.

Examples in sentences:

  • “They’re off on a mini-break to the lake district for some peace and quiet.”
  • “A mini-break in the city was the perfect way to celebrate their anniversary.”
  • “After a stressful month, a mini-break to the seaside was just what they needed.”
  • “The couple often takes mini-breaks to reconnect and recharge.”
  • “Booking a mini-break to a spa resort has become their yearly tradition.”

 

Odyssey

An extended, adventurous journey or voyage, often involving a quest or exploration.

Examples in sentences:

  • “Their year-long odyssey across South America was filled with incredible sights and experiences.”
  • “Embarking on an odyssey around the world had always been her dream.”
  • “The book chronicles the author’s odyssey through remote and wild landscapes.”
  • “Their motorcycle odyssey took them through countries and cultures vastly different from their own.”
  • “The trip turned into an odyssey of self-discovery and adventure.”

 

Outing

A short trip or excursion, typically for leisure.

Examples in sentences:

  • “The family outing to the zoo was a hit with the kids.”
  • “Organizing a company outing to boost team morale.”
  • “Their weekend outings often involve hiking and exploring nature trails.”
  • “A simple outing to the local park can be a great change of pace.”
  • “Looking forward to our next outing to the beach.”

 

Pilgrimage

A journey to a place of particular interest or significance, often with a spiritual goal.

Examples in sentences:

  • “Their pilgrimage to the historic battlefields was a deeply moving experience.”
  • “Many fans make a pilgrimage to their favorite author’s hometown.”
  • “The annual pilgrimage to the family cabin is a cherished tradition.”
  • “He described his trip to the jazz festival as a pilgrimage for any true fan.”
  • “Making a pilgrimage to the ancient ruins had always been on her bucket list.”

 

R&R (Rest and Relaxation)

A period of time spent relaxing and not working, often away from home.

Examples in sentences:

  • “After months at sea, the sailors were looking forward to some R&R.”
  • “Booked a weekend getaway for some much-needed R&R.”
  • “The resort specializes in providing the ultimate R&R experience.”
  • “Taking a week of R&R to recharge my batteries.”
  • “He’s on R&R, spending his days fishing and his evenings by the campfire.”

 

Recreational Leave

Time off from work taken to relax, travel, or engage in leisure activities.

Examples in sentences:

  • “She’s using her recreational leave to tour Europe’s art museums.”
  • “Finally taking my recreational leave to go on that diving trip.”
  • “Planning to spend my recreational leave visiting national parks.”
  • “He saved his recreational leave for a long-awaited golf vacation.”
  • “Their recreational leave is a time for family trips and creating memories.”

 

Respite

A short period of rest or relief from something difficult or unpleasant.

Examples in sentences:

  • “The weekend trip offered a welcome respite from the stress of work.”
  • “Seeking a brief respite in the quiet countryside.”
  • “The holiday season provides a respite from the everyday hustle and bustle.”
  • “A day at the spa was her chosen form of respite.”
  • “They took a short respite to the mountains to rejuvenate.”

 

Retreat

A period of seclusion, often for meditation, relaxation, or study.

Examples in sentences:

  • “They went on a yoga retreat to find some peace and improve their practice.”
  • “The company organizes an annual retreat for team-building exercises.”
  • “Looking for a quiet retreat to finish writing my novel.”
  • “He found the mountain retreat to be the perfect escape from the city’s noise.”
  • “Their weekend retreat to the cabin by the lake was a much-needed break.”

 

Road Trip

A journey made by car, typically involving various stops and destinations.

Examples in sentences:

  • “Planning a cross-country road trip to explore the national parks.”
  • “Their summer road trip along the coast was an adventure of a lifetime.”
  • “Packing the car for a road trip with friends, complete with a playlist and snacks.”
  • “The family road trip became an annual tradition, exploring new states each year.”
  • “A spontaneous road trip led them to discover hidden gems off the beaten path.”

 

Sabbatical

A break from work, often lasting several months to a year, sometimes to study or travel.

Examples in sentences:

  • “She’s taking a sabbatical to research and write her next book.”
  • “After seven years of teaching, he went on a sabbatical to Europe to study art history.”
  • “Their sabbatical was a chance to volunteer abroad and give back.”
  • “A year-long sabbatical provided the opportunity to sail around the Caribbean.”
  • “During her sabbatical, she took courses in culinary arts and explored food cultures.”

 

Safari

An expedition to observe or hunt wildlife in its natural habitat, especially in East Africa.

Examples in sentences:

  • “Their dream safari in Kenya allowed them to see the Big Five up close.”
  • “On safari, they witnessed the great migration, a truly awe-inspiring sight.”
  • “Photographing lions on a safari was an unforgettable experience.”
  • “The safari through the Serengeti was the highlight of their trip to Africa.”
  • “Going on a safari and sleeping under the stars was a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.”

 

Schoolies

An Australian term for the holiday period following the end of high school exams, often marked by trips to resort areas.

Examples in sentences:

  • “After finishing their exams, they headed to the Gold Coast for schoolies week.”
  • “Schoolies is a rite of passage for many Australian high school graduates.”
  • “They spent months planning their schoolies trip to Byron Bay.”
  • “Schoolies week was filled with beach parties, concerts, and celebrating freedom.”
  • “Remembering schoolies brings back memories of youth and celebration.”

 

Shore Leave

Originally a naval term for time off when a ship is in port, now humorously applied to any break from routine.

Examples in sentences:

  • “Finally got some shore leave from work, time to hit the beach!”
  • “He’s treating this weekend like shore leave, completely disconnecting from everything.”
  • “After months of non-stop work, we’re looking forward to some shore leave.”
  • “They spent their shore leave exploring local markets and trying new foods.”
  • “Her idea of shore leave is a quiet weekend at home with a good book.”

 

Spell Off

A brief period of rest or relief from activities or work.

Examples in sentences:

  • “After that project, I’m in dire need of a spell off to recharge.”
  • “Taking a spell off to focus on personal health and wellness.”
  • “He’s on a spell off from his studies, trying to figure out his next steps.”
  • “A spell off work is the perfect opportunity to start on that home renovation project.”
  • “They’re using their spell off to travel and spend time with family.”

 

Spring Break

A vacation period in early spring at universities and schools in various countries.

Examples in sentences:

  • “College students flock to the beaches for spring break every year.”
  • “They’re planning a road trip for spring break to escape the cold.”
  • “Spring break is the perfect time for a family vacation to the theme parks.”
  • “Her spring break plans include a volunteer trip abroad.”
  • “Looking forward to spring break for some much-needed downtime.”

 

Staycation

A vacation spent at home or nearby, often exploring local attractions.

Examples in sentences:

  • “This year, we’re opting for a staycation and discovering what our city has to offer.”
  • “A staycation can be just as relaxing as going abroad, without the hassle of travel.”
  • “They turned their home into a staycation paradise with a backyard pool and movie nights.”
  • “Our staycation plan includes a spa day and a local wine tasting tour.”
  • “Taking a staycation to work on personal projects and unwind.”

 

Summer Holiday

The extended break taken during the summer months, often by students and their families.

Examples in sentences:

  • “The kids are eagerly awaiting the summer holiday to visit their grandparents.”
  • “We’re planning a European adventure for our summer holiday this year.”
  • “Summer holiday is the best time for camping and outdoor activities.”
  • “They’re spending their summer holiday on a cross-country road trip.”
  • “Looking for summer holiday destinations that are off the beaten path.”

 

Time Off

A period when one is not working and can relax or travel.

Examples in sentences:

  • “I’m using my time off to visit family overseas.”
  • “Finally, some time off! Planning to hit the beach and just chill.”
  • “She’s taking time off work to focus on her health and wellness.”
  • “After the project wraps up, I’m looking forward to some well-deserved time off.”
  • “They’re spending their time off exploring national parks.”

 

Time Out

A break from regular activities, often for rest or leisure.

Examples in sentences:

  • “Taking a time out from the digital world to reconnect with nature.”
  • “The weekend is my time out to unwind and do things I love.”
  • “A time out at a quiet retreat is just what I need to recharge.”
  • “Let’s take a time out and have a mini vacation in the city.”
  • “During my time out, I plan to catch up on reading and relax.”

 

Tour

A journey for pleasure in which several different places are visited.

Examples in sentences:

  • “We went on a guided tour through Europe last summer.”
  • “Their band is on tour, playing shows across the country.”
  • “Joining a wildlife tour to see animals in their natural habitat.”
  • “The museum offers a virtual tour for those who can’t visit in person.”
  • “Planning a food tour to taste the best dishes the city has to offer.”

 

Trek

An arduous journey, especially one made on foot for adventure or exploration.

Examples in sentences:

  • “Their trek through the Himalayas was a test of endurance and spirit.”
  • “Going on a trek in the Amazon rainforest to witness its biodiversity.”
  • “The trek up the mountain rewarded them with breathtaking views.”
  • “She’s documenting her trek across the desert for a travel blog.”
  • “The annual trek to the ancient ruins is a tradition for many adventurers.”

 

Trip

A journey or excursion, especially for pleasure.

Examples in sentences:

  • “Planning a road trip down the coast with friends.”
  • “Their trip to Italy was filled with art, history, and delicious food.”
  • “A business trip turned into an opportunity to explore a new city.”
  • “Taking a solo trip to find some peace and solitude.”
  • “The school trip to the science museum was educational and fun.”

 

Vacay

A casual term for vacation.

Examples in sentences:

  • “Counting down the days until our tropical island vacay.”
  • “Just booked a week-long vacay to unwind and soak up some sun.”
  • “Our annual ski vacay is the highlight of the winter for us.”
  • “Sharing all the highlights from our European vacay on my blog.”
  • “Need a vacay to recover from all this work stress.”

 

Voyage

A long journey involving travel by sea or in space.

Examples in sentences:

  • “Their voyage across the Atlantic was an adventure of a lifetime.”
  • “Planning a voyage around the world has always been my dream.”
  • “The book details the historic voyage of the Mayflower.”
  • “He’s fascinated by stories of space voyages and exploration.”
  • “Their sailing voyage took them to remote islands rarely visited by tourists.”

 

Wanderlust

A strong desire to travel and explore the world.

Examples in sentences:

  • “Her wanderlust has taken her to over fifty countries and counting.”
  • “Feeling that wanderlust itch again, time to plan the next trip.”
  • “Wanderlust fuels my passion for photography and storytelling.”
  • “This documentary will definitely ignite your wanderlust.”
  • “Social media is both a cure and a curse for my wanderlust.”

 

Weekender

A short trip taken over the weekend.

Examples in sentences:

  • “Packing my bag for a quick weekender to the countryside.”
  • “They love taking weekender trips to escape the city’s hustle.”
  • “Found a charming bed and breakfast for our next weekender.”
  • “A weekender in the mountains is my ideal way to recharge.”
  • “Let’s plan a weekender; I need a break from work.”

 

Winter Break

A vacation period in the winter, especially between academic semesters.

Examples in sentences:

  • “Looking forward to skiing and hot cocoa during winter break.”
  • “Winter break is the perfect time for family gatherings and holiday celebrations.”
  • “We’re planning a tropical getaway to escape the cold this winter break.”
  • “The city transforms into a winter wonderland during the winter break.”
  • “Using the winter break to catch up on reading and relaxation.”

 

  • Polly

    Founder - @PollyWebster

    Polly Webster is the founder of Foreign Lingo and a seasoned traveler with a decade of exploration under her belt.

    Over the past 10 years, she has journeyed to numerous countries around the globe, immersing herself in diverse cultures, traditions, and languages.

    Drawing from her rich experiences, Polly now writes insightful articles about travel, languages, traditions, and cultures, sharing her unique perspectives and invaluable tips with her readers.

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