In 2024, England and Wales will have the lowest number of bank holidays since 2021, prompting many to think carefully about how to best use their annual leave. To address this, travel experts at PayingTooMuch have released a graphic showing how to gain a total of 55 days off by booking only 25 days of annual leave. Moreover, wellbeing professionals weigh in on the health benefits of taking time off work.

For those working a five-day week, there are typically 28 days of paid annual leave available. Here’s a guide on how to strategically use 25 of those days to enjoy 55 days off, including weekends.

Start the year with a bang by extending your New Year celebrations from Saturday 30 December 2023 to Sunday 7 January 2024. By booking just four days off, you can enjoy a nine-day break.

From Saturday 23 March to Sunday 7 April, you can relish a 16-day Easter break by taking only 8 days of your annual leave.

Whether it’s from Saturday 4 May to Monday 12 May or Saturday 25 May to Sunday 2 June, you can enjoy 9 consecutive days off by using 4 days of leave, thanks to May’s bank holidays.

Booking four days off between Saturday 24 August and Sunday 1 September can give you a nine-day summer break.

From Saturday 21 December to Tuesday 1 January 2025, enjoy a festive period with 12 days off by booking just five days.

Well-being coach Lorna Wilkins and holistic nutritionist Simone Venner share the top four health benefits of taking time off.

According to Simone, longer breaks offer extensive health benefits that extend to physical health, mood, and overall satisfaction. She says, “Even a single day off can provide respite from stress.”

Lorna argues that the stress-relieving effects of a holiday have a direct impact on sleep quality, making you feel more relaxed.

A break from the routine encourages creativity, according to Lorna. She notes that when you return to work, you’ll be more motivated and inspired.

Lorna also highlights that taking a break in sunny climates can boost vitamin D levels and help alleviate symptoms associated with seasonal affective disorder.