If you're dreaming of more time away from the office, 2026 could be your year. A clever scheduling trick allows you to effectively double your annual leave by strategically booking days off around public holidays.
How It Works
The key lies in aligning your leave with bank holidays and weekends. By booking just 21 days of annual leave at the right times, you can create a whopping 49 days off work throughout the year.
Best Times to Book
- Early January (combining New Year's break with additional days)
- Around Easter (extending the long weekend)
- Late May/early June (creating a super-long summer break)
- Christmas and New Year period
Why 2026 Is Special
The 2026 calendar creates particularly favourable opportunities with bank holidays falling on weekdays. This means you can bridge weekends and public holidays with minimal annual leave days used.
Example: In May 2026, booking just four days' leave (Tuesday to Friday) after the early May bank holiday Monday gives you a nine-day break while only using four days of allowance.
Planning Ahead Pays Off
With many employers requiring advance notice for holiday requests, now is the perfect time to:
- Check your company's leave policy
- Mark key dates in your calendar
- Discuss plans with colleagues to avoid clashes
- Consider travel deals for off-peak periods
This smart approach to leave planning could transform your work-life balance and create unforgettable travel opportunities without eating into your precious annual allowance.
