Maximizing Your Per Diem: Furnishings That Make TDY Feel Like Home

Temporary Duty (TDY) travel comes with a per diem allowance to cover lodging, meals, and incidental expenses. While many government employees and military members focus only on staying within the limits, there is often an opportunity to maximize per diem by making housing more comfortable. With the right furnishings, a temporary assignment can feel less like a hotel stay and more like home.

Why maximizing per diem matters

Per diem is designed to cover the real costs of living away from your permanent duty station. If you only spend on the basics, you may miss the chance to improve your quality of life. Choosing the right housing and furnishings allows you to stay compliant while making your assignment more enjoyable.

Furnishings that improve TDY life

• Fitness equipment: A treadmill, stationary bike, or weights can help you maintain health without expensive gym memberships.
• Pet supplies: Items like pet beds or crates make long assignments easier for families traveling with animals.
• Kitchen upgrades: Tools like rice cookers, espresso machines, or high-quality cookware allow for healthier and more affordable meals than dining out.
• Workstation setups: A proper desk, chair, or monitor can make working on TDY more productive and comfortable.
• Comfort items: Sofas, modular furniture, or extra bedding add a sense of permanence during long stays.

Compliance considerations

Maximizing per diem does not mean overspending. All housing and furnishing costs must remain within the daily allowance and be properly documented. The key is to select housing providers who understand per diem rules and can structure invoices that align with agency requirements.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Choosing housing that exceeds per diem before reimbursement rules are clear
• Paying for furnishings separately without proper documentation
• Failing to keep receipts or invoices showing delivery and setup

Turning TDY housing into a home

When you maximize your per diem with thoughtful furnishings, you create a living space that reduces stress and improves daily routines. Instead of simply enduring a long TDY, you can live comfortably and productively while staying compliant with government regulations.

Learn more about TDY Rentals