By Canoe Benefits
Summer vacations bring a chance for employees to recharge, spend time with family, and enjoy some well-deserved rest. But for many workplaces, especially in the public sector, vacation season also means lighter staffing, shifting workloads, and new challenges for managers and plan administrators.
While summer vacations bring welcome time away for employees, they also highlight how important it is to have clear policies, strong communication, and well-structured workplace benefits in place. These supports help both employees and leadership navigate busy vacation months with confidence.
Planning for Time Away
As employees request summer vacations throughout July and August, many managers are left balancing coverage needs while making sure staff are still able to take their time off. Having clear vacation policies and absence guidelines helps set expectations and prevent confusion.
HR teams can support managers by:
- Reviewing vacation request processes ahead of busy seasons
- Clarifying how vacation time is approved and scheduled
- Providing backup staffing plans or cross-training for key roles
- Ensuring vacation balances are updated and accurate
Simple check-ins at the start of the summer can help prevent scheduling headaches and reduce last-minute conflicts.
Workplace Benefits That Support Time Away
Workplace benefits often include features that support both planned and unplanned time off. Vacation time may be booked, but illness, injuries, or personal circumstances can still arise while employees are away or preparing for their time off.
This is where benefits such as short-term disability, sick leave coverage, and access to virtual healthcare become valuable. Employees who feel supported during unexpected absences are more likely to recover fully and return to work confidently, while managers feel reassured knowing their teams have access to care when needed.
Not sure how these workplace benefits apply during vacation season? Your Canoe advisor can help provide clarity and resources.
Managing Workload Shifts and Team Well-Being
With smaller teams on-site during peak summer vacations, some employees may take on extra responsibilities or adjust to new routines. HR leaders can help support staff well-being by:
- Encouraging reasonable workloads while others are away
- Reminding teams to use EAP services for stress or work-life balance support
- Checking in with managers to ensure team members have what they need
- Offering wellness resources to help employees recharge after busy periods
Employee assistance programs (EAP) are particularly helpful during these times. Many plans offer counselling services, financial guidance, and family support resources that employees can access confidentially, even during busy summer vacations.
A quick refresher on EAP access can make it easier for employees to take advantage of the services available. Canoe can provide materials and education sessions to support your team.
Vacation Safety Reminders
Since many employees and their families are spending more time outdoors, traveling, or near the water in July, it’s also a good time to share simple safety reminders.
National Drowning Prevention Week, which takes place July 20-26, is an opportunity to promote water safety awareness. Encouraging staff and families to take extra care around pools, lakes, and open water can help prevent accidents and keep summer vacations safe and positive.
Before your teams head out on vacation, this is also a helpful time to review travel insurance details. Canoe advisors are available to walk through your travel coverage and answer any questions.
Preparing for Fall
As summer vacations wind down, many HR teams begin preparing for a busy fall. Early planning can help keep things running smoothly as employees return to regular routines. Consider:
- Reviewing vacation balances and upcoming absences
- Scheduling workplace benefits education sessions for new hires or teams
- Confirming that all plan administrator details are up to date
Looking ahead to fall? Your Canoe advisor can assist with plan reviews, training sessions, or internal communications to help you stay organized.
Keeping Summer Simple
Summer vacations are meant to be a time for rest and recharge, not added stress. With clear policies, open communication, and supportive workplace benefits in place, both employees and leadership can navigate summer smoothly.
To schedule a mid-summer benefits check-in or refresher, connect with your Canoe advisor anytime.
