U.S. workers may change, cancel summer vacations due to economic volatility

Older workers less likely to alter plans: Survey

With summer vacations in full swing, almost one-half (45 per cent) of employees and the self-employed may change or cancel travel plans if the recent volatility in the economy continues, according to a survey in the United States released by online job board Glassdoor.

More than one-half (52 per cent) of workers aged 18 to 34 would change their vacation plans if the economy continues its volatility, as would 44 per cent of employees aged 35 to 44 and 42 per cent of those aged 45 to 54. Older workers are less likely to do so — 36 per cent of employees aged 55 and older said they would change or cancel their trip, found the survey of 2,203 adults.

"The uncertainty in the market continues to weigh on employee confidence so it's no surprise that the recent volatility might impact summer travel plans," said Robert Hohman, co-founder and CEO of Glassdoor.

For those who do manage to get away, there may be an expectation to work during vacation — 13 per cent of employees (excluding the self-employed) who have taken or plan to take a summer vacation reported they are expected to work while away. Nearly one-in-five (18 per cent) noted they are not expected to work but they must be available should an emergency arise. However, two-thirds of employees who have taken or plan to take a vacation said they are able to check out from their jobs completely.

"Vacation time is important to both employees and their company and it's reassuring to see the majority of employees feel their employer supports their ability to 'check out' and recharge,” said Hohman. “Employees who feel tethered to their job while away miss the intended vacation benefits and U.S. companies should try to be more respectful of this time."

More men (17 per cent) than women (eight per cent) who have taken or plan to take a vacation this summer reported they are expected to work while on vacation, found the survey, conducted in June 2011.

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