Rise Of The Micro-retirement: Survey Shows Four Out Of Five Americans Ready For An Extended Break

TORONTO, ON – A new survey by Explore Worldwide, a small-group adventure tour operator, reveals a growing trend in the U.S. – the rise of micro-retirements. The commissioned poll, which surveyed 2,000 employed individuals, shows that four out of five Americans (80%) are ready and willing to take an extended break within the next two years.

Micro-retirements, a concept that originated with Gen Z, are gaining significant traction across other generations, with 41% of Millennials and 35% of Gen X expressing interest in stepping away from their desks for a longer period. Travel emerged as one of the primary reasons for wanting to take time off, with 41% of respondents citing it as their top motivation. For many, the ideal window for an extended break is between one to three months.

Europe emerged as the top destination (34%), followed closely by travel spots within North America (33%). Other popular destinations include Australia (16%) and Asia (15%). In terms of experiences, respondents highlighted various types of travel, including spending time in nature (28%), road tripping (19%), slow travel experiences like rail travel (17%), and culinary experiences (15%).

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Katy Rockett, Regional Director of North America for Explore Worldwide, emphasized that micro-retirements are no longer just a distant dream. “We are seeing a real shift in how people are thinking about spending their time,” she said. “Micro-retirements are not a far-off dream, but there is real demand for them right now.” For many, midlife, particularly for Millennials and Gen X, represents a period of significant change, with career demands and family responsibilities, making a break both restorative and practical.

The survey also revealed that 72% of respondents believe sabbaticals should be a standard benefit, viewing extended breaks as investments in personal growth and well-being. Among those who have already taken a sabbatical, 92% said they felt very positive about returning to work, and 96% reported that the time off had given them a renewed sense of purpose.

However, the survey also highlighted barriers to taking a micro-retirement, with 41% of respondents citing financial concerns, 27% uncertain about employer support, and 23% mentioning family or home responsibilities. Rockett noted that, “What used to be reserved for retirement is happening sooner and in smaller bursts. People are not waiting until their 70s to live fully; they are choosing to reset and reconnect with the world now.”

To help people plan their micro-retirement, Explore Worldwide has launched an online tool that matches users to their “perfect” micro-retirement trip. The tool asks users to input their age, job status, and stress levels before suggesting the ideal time to take a break and even recommending the best continent for their micro-retirement adventure. Those who complete the quiz can also enter a competition for a chance to win $7,000 toward their micro-retirement trip with Explore, with the promotional period running from September 15 to December 21, 2025.

The article Rise of the Micro-Retirement: Survey shows four out of five Americans ready for an extended break first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.