Post-vacation blues can hit you like a ton of bricks. You just had a great vacation then bam—back to real life.
It’s so hard getting back into the swing of things after coming back from a trip.
The vacation high has worn off and you’re suddenly filled with dread and anxiety about all the things you now have to do.
If you’re struggling to restart your normal routine, I’ve got you covered—because I’ve been in that position more times than I can count.
Over the years, I found 9 surefire ways to reset after vacation, and I know these tips will work for you too.
Ready to get your life back on track? Keep reading!
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1. Unpack Your Suitcase
I know, I know…this is probably the worst part of coming home from vacation, but it has to be done. And sooner rather than later.
Don’t be that person who waits until the next day (and then the next day) to unpack your suitcase.
If you make it home really late at night, then sure, unpack first thing in the morning. However, if you still have a few hours until nightfall, just power through and get it done the first day you make it home.
What helps me easily unpack after vacation is putting my body on autopilot.
Right when I walk through the door, I put all my bags down and instantly get to unpacking…before my brain has a chance to process what’s happening.
If I get too comfortable and rest for “20 minutes” first (fyi, it never lasts only 20 minutes), my suitcase is not getting unpacked.
I recommend setting a 30 minute timer and trying to beat the clock to unpack.
I typically start by throwing my dirty vacation clothes in the washing machine. Next, I unpack my toiletry items and cosmetics.
Finally, I unpack any miscellaneous items, then wipe down everything with a disinfectant wipe.
To make the time pass even quicker, put a song on in the background or reward yourself with your favorite meal after.
You’ll feel so accomplished knowing you’ve unpacked from vacation in under an hour after getting home.
Want to learn how to easily pack your suitcase? Click here.
2. Have a Self-Care Session
If you’re anything like me, your body is tired after a long trip and needs some TLC.
And there’s no better way to unwind than with a little self-care pamper session.
Take a warm soak in the tub or relax in a hot, steamy shower to recharge your mind and body post vacation.
After spending all day in the airport and in close quarters with others on a plane, this is the perfect time to put your phone on “do not disturb” and zone out.
Check out my full list of top-rated self-care products to help you destress!
3. Schedule in Physical Activity
Believe it or not, a great way to transition back into everyday life post vacation is by scheduling in physical activity.
You don’t have to go all out in an intense kickboxing class—it could be something as gentle as a half hour yoga session courtesy of YouTube.
If your muscles are tight and sore from traveling, you’ll be more likely to stay in bed longer the day after and neglect any chores you may have.
However, if you give your body a good workout, it could help you sleep better AND give you the energy you’ll need to get things done the next day.
Not only is moving your body good for your physical health, but your mental health will also thank you.
So, get those endorphins flowing and get moving! You’ll be glad you did.
4. Go Outdoors for a Bit
If you usually get post-vacation blues, I can’t stress enough how much spending time outdoors will boost your mood.
Nature has a magical way of rejuvenating your mind, body, and spirit.
It also does wonders for combatting the post-vacation depression you may get after coming home from a fun trip.
According to WebMD, spending 30 minutes in the sun daily can raise serotonin levels, strengthen your immune system, and improve sleep quality. Umm, yes, please!
Kiss those post-travel blues goodbye by adding a quick trip outdoors to your everyday routine.
5. Dust Off Your Journal
Had a fun time on vacation and don’t want to forget all the magic that happened? Write about it in your journal!
Journaling is an excellent way to destress after vacation and puts your mind in the present moment.
Try writing about all the positive feelings (or maybe the not-so-positive ones) you experienced while on your trip, and what you plan to do on your next one.
A great hack I use for planning my upcoming trips is by writing about them in my manifestation journal.
Want to start one for yourself? Click here!
6. Track Your Finances
This tip is one of the least fun things to do after returning home from vacation—checking your bank account.
As much as it may pain you to go through your bank statements, it has to be done.
This is typically the point where I ask myself how I spent so much money on food.
Vacation splurges are definitely a thing.
Create a budget for the rest of the month to help you stay on track for any upcoming expenses you have.
You can do this with a spreadsheet, a notebook, or whatever way best helps you track your finances.
Now would also be a good time to make new savings goals for your next trip.
There are quite a few ways you can save for your next vacation, and I go over those tips in this post.
7. Tidy Up Your Space
I don’t know about you, but there’s usually a lack of motivation to do any cleaning after I get back from vacation.
But hear me out—it’s the cheat code to a reset!
Your living space plays a huge role in your mental health and overall quality of life.
If you have a cluttered area, you’re more likely to feel sluggish, unmotivated, and have low energy.
Try some of these tidying hacks:
- Spruce up your entryway
- Wash any dirty dishes
- Organize miscellaneous items in bins
- Fold and put away your laundry
- Wipe down appliances and surfaces
Don’t take for granted how wonderful a tidy space will make you feel. Getting your home life in order is a game changer!
8. Go Grocery Shopping
Next, make a trip to the grocery store (or get things delivered) to help you reset post vacation.
If you’re anything like me, your refrigerator and pantry are probably bare before you leave out for your trip.
Take this time to stock up on all your food staples—bread, eggs, oat milk, juice, whatever you need.
There’s nothing like making a nice, nourishing meal for yourself after living off of quick snacks at the airport.
I recommend buying some of your favorite comfort items and natural supplements to help boost your energy, improve sleep, and give you all the hygge vibes.
I’ll link some of my favorite purchases below.
9. Recommit to Your Daily Routine
After you return from vacation, one of the best things you can do is fall back into your regular routine.
What did your daily life look like before you left?
Did you go to a Pilates class in the morning? Did you take your dog for evening walks?
By recommitting to your daily routine, you’ll transition back to your “regular life” more easily, and it’ll help you overcome possible jet lag.
If you need a little help getting back on track, try scheduling your days in a planner. Here’s a link to my free daily planner!
Want a planner that gives you a full week and month’s view? See this one below.
I hope these post-vacation reset tips help you out, and I’m wishing you many future vacation days!
Already thinking about your next trip?
Watch my video on top-rated Amazon travel essentials!
Peace, love, and good vibrations.
