When you book a vacation, you probably imagine yourself lounging poolside or on the beach and not doing anything. That’s because vacations are supposed to be relaxing, but what if they’re not? How can you ensure that your trip truly is one of relaxation so that you’re rejuvenated instead of stressed when you come home from vacation? Here are some top tips for making sure your next trip is as relaxing as possible:
Make a list of everything you need to do before you leave.
If you’re going on vacation, it’s tempting to leave everything until the last minute. But if you do that, then you won’t be able to relax and enjoy yourself once you’re there. Instead, list everything that needs to be done before leaving.
Put this list into your calendar, so it’s visible every time you open it up—and check it multiple times before departure. This way, when the time comes for packing, making flight reservations, or whatever else is on your list, everything will be ready and waiting for your attention in one place!
Ask your friends to help out a little.
The next tip is to ask your friends to help out a little. You may be taking time off and going on vacation, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have any responsibilities to take care of! Ask them if they can watch the kids for an hour or two so you can get a massage or help out with housework so you can go for a walk on the beach.
It is also helpful if you plan ahead of time what will happen while everyone is away. Will someone else feed the pets? How about watering the plants? Does anyone need to pick up mail or newspapers before going on vacation?
Put your phone down and take in the scenery.
It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of your vacation, but you can still find ways to appreciate what’s around you. Look at your surroundings as if they were a photo, taking in every detail. Alternatively, try out some photography apps that let you take pictures without holding up your phone (like this one).
When you’re not busy taking photos or looking at them on Instagram, use your phone for relaxation: listen to music, play games (or just stare at cats on YouTube), read books… there are endless possibilities.
Splurge on a fancy rental car at least once.
The experience of driving a luxury car is unparalleled. You feel free to go everywhere because the car will be able to get there in style, and you don’t have to worry about being safe since the vehicle was built with safety in mind. Whatever you are doing, you can rent a car that allows you to hook your camper trailer on the back and head out on the road.
You also get that feeling of being in control – like nothing else matters but your destination (and maybe some music). It all adds up to an overall feeling of being pampered, which is exactly what we need while travelling.
Relaxing on vacation is possible – if you plan for it! We all want to get away from our lives, but when the stress of planning and preparing for a trip starts to take over, it can be hard to enjoy yourself. If you follow these tips and make some adjustments to your own routine before leaving home, you’ll find that relaxing on vacation really isn’t as difficult as it may seem at first glance.
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Clare
Hi, I'm Clare (Emmy's Mummy). A former Nanny and Mother of 2 - Emmy (born February 2010) and Harry (born October 2012). We are Essex based and share our adventures and misadventures of a busy crazy life.
