How to Vote While on Vacation

Everyone knows that voting is important, but so are vacations. Sometimes it's just not possible to be at your official local polling place when the time comes to cast your ballot. Luckily there are ways to ensure your vote is counted, even when you are voting on vacation.  

One thing you need to keep in mind is timing. You'll want to give yourself plenty of time to receive, properly fill out, and return any voting materials.

With a little pre-planning, you can still do your patriotic duty whether you are just taking a short trip, enjoying a season, or RVing full time.

Vacation Voting Options

First thing first—make sure you are registered to vote. It only takes a few minutes and if you aren't already registered, you can do so online. 

Absentee 

Using the option of absentee voting lets you cast your vote before Election Day by mail or drop box. Eligibility differs from state to state, but most have an exception for people traveling when it's time to cast a ballot.

If you know you are going to be away from your voting district or area before Election Day, request an absentee vote from the local elections office as soon as you can. You can easily determine your state's absentee voting requirements at Rock the Vote. 

Complete your ballot carefully, legibly, and as early as possible. Make sure to return it to local election officials in time to meet your state's deadline. 

Early In-Person 

Did you know that nearly all 50 states have some early in-person voting options? That is where registered voters can go to their polling place to cast a vote before the November Election Day. 

Early in-person voting begins nationally about 23 days prior to Election Day and typically ends a few days before, but this can vary by state. Some states request that voters use an absentee ballot for their early in-person voting, while others allow walk-in voting. 

Don't forget to bring proper identification when you go for early in-person voting. Not sure what your voting district does? Call the county clerk's office for details.  

Help Out Voting 

Interested in helping democracy prevail? Consider becoming a poll worker or election inspector. Each state has different requirements, but all could use help on Election Day. 

Visit Vote.org for reference for voting deadlines and other voting questions. 

If you know someone who will be on vacation during the election, make sure to share these tips on how to vote while on vacation.