Summer vacations are meant to be restful, but if you're a chiropractic business owner, they can come with a lot of financial anxiety. You’re likely used to managing every aspect of your practice—and stepping away can feel risky. But it doesn’t have to. With a little planning, you can unplug confidently, knowing your finances are taken care of.

Here’s how to plan your vacation so that both your business and bank account stay healthy.

1. Shift Your Mindset Around Time Off
   Many chiropractors feel guilty leaving their practice, especially if patients rely on them directly. But you can't pour from an empty cup. Time away helps you recharge and ultimately serve your patients better. Think of vacation as an investment in your energy and leadership.
2. Create a Money Allocation Plan (MAP)
   Before you leave, map out your business and personal budgets. Anticipate a dip in revenue while you're out and adjust your spending accordingly. Use budgeting tools like EveryDollar (free version available) or simply pen and paper—whatever helps you stay consistent.
3. Don’t Forget Sinking Funds
   Expenses like malpractice insurance or CE travel often hit when we least expect it. A sinking fund is your buffer. Save monthly toward these predictable-but-irregular expenses to avoid financial strain while on vacation.
4. Plan for Your Vacation Costs
   Build your vacation into your personal budget by saving monthly. This ensures you won’t need to rely on credit cards or sacrifice business cash flow.
5. Automate or Schedule Bill Payments
   If you still pay some bills by check, take care of them before you go. The last thing you want is to be lying on a beach wondering if you paid the rent.
6. Prep Your Team and Patients
   Tell your patients you’ll be away and encourage them to schedule around your absence. Equip your team with what they need to function smoothly, so you’re not fielding texts mid-hike.
7. Schedule a Financial Check-In Post-Vacation
   Block time to review your finances when you return. Adjust your budget, send missing receipts, and evaluate what worked or didn’t. That reflection makes planning the next trip even easier.

Vacationing doesn’t have to mean financial chaos. With just a bit of proactive planning, you can enjoy time off with peace of mind.  Listen to the full podcast episode below!