Going back home after an incredible vacation can be draining. You had the trip of a lifetime, and now have to face the reality of chores, getting back into a routine, and going to work. Fortunately, there are some things that you can do to help make the transition more smooth, so that you can overcome the post-travel blues as quickly as possible.
In this blog, we’ll share simple post-travel tips on how to manage re-entry after a trip. We hope that these tips can help you adjust, boost your mood, and keep your travel memories alive.
1. Give Yourself a Day to Relax
The last thing you want to do when returning from a trip is to jump right back into the reality of everyday life. This is exactly why you should give yourself a day to relax. Take an extra day off of work if possible, so that you can unwind, and make sure that you’re taking some time for self-care. Use this time to slowly ease back into your routine, do your laundry, and catch up on some much needed sleep. Trust us, you’ll be happy you did!
2. Unpack Gradually
Your first instinct may be to immediately unpack your suitcase when you get home. However, we suggest waiting to do so. Diving into everything all at once is only going to stress you out and add to those post-travel blues. Instead, give yourself a day to relax, and then consider tackling your laundry in small batches. Not only does this approach make everything seem more manageable, but it allows you to slowly ease back into home life.
3. Take Time For Self-Care
Let’s face it, travel days can be exhausting. You have to go to the airport, sit on a lengthy flight, and then make your way back home. It’s a lot to take on in a short period of time. To help offset this stress, take some time for self-care when you get home. Schedule a spa day, rest, relax, order in your favorite meal, and turn on your favorite show or movie. Having a day to yourself will leave you feeling refreshed and recharged, rather than sluggish and exhausted.
4. Reconnect With Family and Friends
One of the best ways to go about overcoming travel depression is to make plans to reconnect with your family and friends once you get back home. For example, you could ask them to pick you up from the airport and go to dinner. This gives you time to see each other, and tell them all about your incredible trip. There’s truly nothing better than seeing your loved ones after being away.
5. Turn Your Memories Into Something Tangible
Making memories with your family and friends is one of the best parts of going on a vacation. However, many people will take photos on their phones, and never do anything with them. Instead, why not turn your memories into something tangible? Print out your pictures and put them into frames or in a scrapbook, write down your memories in a journal, or place your souvenirs in a keepsake box. This allows your travel memories to live on for years to come.
6. Recreate Parts of Your Trip at Home
Another way to make coming back home a little bit easier is to recreate some of the best parts of your trip. This will bring you back in time, and allows you to reminisce. For example, you could learn how to make your favorite dish, listen to music that reminds you of that destination, or watch a movie that’s based there. This is a great way to keep the spirit of your travels alive while slowly getting back into your routine.
7. Make a Gratitude List
Being able to get away and go on an amazing trip is wonderful, but there’s also something about being in the comfort of your own home that’s unmatched. It’s funny how when we are at home, we long for adventure, but when we are traveling, we can’t wait to be home. Reminding yourself of what you love about both can help ease the transition. Try making a gratitude list that includes everything you enjoyed about your trip, and everything you love about being home. This allows you to appreciate both situations, and makes coming home feel more exciting.
8. Plan Your Next Adventure!
Coming home after an amazing trip isn’t the most fun thing to do, but coping with post-vacation sadness is possible. Although, if all else fails, we’ve found that planning another trip is a wonderful cure! If your next adventure takes you internationally, we’d be happy to help you get a passport or travel visa. Simply head to our website to get the application process started. No matter where you’re going, we’ll get you there.
