Everyone could use a break once in a while. Whether you are a college student working toward a difficult degree, a parent trying to raise multiple children, an entrepreneur running a business, or a professional working in a 9-5 environment, life can be exhausting sometimes. The only way to restore our energy and excitement for life may be going on vacation.
A break from your normal routines does not have to mean flying across the world. You could simply take a weekend trip to a different region a few hours away. You can also go all out on a multi-week trip abroad if that is the kind of adventure you are seeking.
The destination and the length do not matter very much if you know how to take a proper vacation. Some people may not be experts in this arena, and find themselves returning home a little disappointed with their experience. Here are some tips to help you be a pro at going on vacation.
Leave Your Comfort Zone
Although vacations should be relaxing, they should also be somewhat unfamiliar. After all, you are trying to break from your normal routines, and simply reliving your average weekend but in a different location is not going to accomplish much. Pushing the boundaries of your comfort level a bit is a good thing and will open you up to exciting new experiences. Whether that means going to a place with a very different culture or trying a new activity that scares you, every vacation should take you out of your comfort zone in some way. It may look different for you than it does for others, but as long as you are pushing yourself, then the vacation can be fulfilling.
Know How to Pack
Nothing ruins a vacation like forgetting an essential item at home. Also, when you travel to new locations, you must do research about the amenities there so you know what to bring. Can you balance packing efficiently to avoid bringing too many bags with having enough to last the whole trip? Have you thought of all the wardrobe essentials for traveling? Will you be in a country where you will need an adapter to charge your phone? Do you have a day pack so you do not have to lug items around in your pockets, purse, or a large backpack? Knowing how to pack well will ensure you are sufficiently equipped for the trip.
Remember Your Health and Safety
When traveling, it is easy to forget about personal health and safety. You are so busy gaining new experiences and seeing the sights that you may not prioritize the condition of your body. Though you should certainly splurge a bit when it comes to eating, don’t forget to balance those delicious foods out with some healthy snacks in between. Remember to shower regularly so the buildup from the day is washed away.
Remember to focus on skincare in a new environment by using barrier balm or other creams to maintain the moisture barrier and a balanced-looking complexion. If you are not walking around much during your stay, be sure to make time for exercise. Keep your personal belongings in front pockets and be aware of your surroundings in busy areas while avoiding unsafe streets. Tourists are often easy targets, so stay focused as you take in the setting.
Do Not Overschedule Yourself
One of the biggest mistakes travelers make is filling their itinerary to the bursting point. Sure, you want to have as many experiences as possible in a place that you may never visit again. However, the result will be complete exhaustion, stress, and an empty supply of energy when you return home. Each day that you travel, try to leave some openings in the schedule that allow you to rest and recuperate after busy times. This free time will also allow you to improvise in case you encounter something you didn’t know about but want to try. A packed schedule might make you skip this improvisation, taking away from the overall vacation experience.
Bring Back Souvenirs and Memories
The hardest part about vacationing is coming back. You just had a ton of fun and had time to relax, now it is time to get back to your responsibilities. This transition can be very frustrating, making you wish you were back on vacation. Bringing back souvenirs or photos of the trip can provide a little relief. When you are down about being back in the swing of things, glance at the souvenir or picture and reflect on how fun it was. It may seem like this would make you miss the vacation more, but focusing on these memories can help you re-acclimate to everyday life.
There is No Right Way to Vacation
Often, we think of vacations as exotic cruises or long trips to Europe. But a vacation can be anything. For instance it could be a weekend of tent camping in a state or national park. It could also be staying at an Airbnb a few towns over while the kids stay with the grandparents. Or it could be a trip across the country in a large van or RV. Don’t let anyone tell you that you are vacationing wrong. The tips described above can simply help you enjoy whatever vacation you choose a little bit more.
