How to Have a Real Vacation
“I need a vacation from my vacation!” How many times have you heard someone say that, or even uttered the words yourself?
Sometimes getting away is more work than it should be, right? It’s supposed to be relaxing and refreshing and give us new energy for our family and work. Ah…tis often not the case. We’re here to help you make the most of your time off with some tips on how to have a real vacation.
(Way) Before You Go…
Because last year many travel plans had to be canceled, you may be doubly anxious to get the heck outta Dodge, but…not so fast pardner! The pandemic is still a major factor for numerous popular destinations, so it’s time to work out a couple of Plan B’s. We say: ‘Preparation is never a waste of time’ and how well the preplanning goes may well determine the quality of your time off.
- Money is, of course, the #1 factor. Make a solid budget. You hopefully already have a cash stash for your getaway. Scale back your plans if it’s not a lot. Keep credit cards for emergencies only so you don’t create another financial stressor. Be realistic about how much things cost, and the extra expenses involved with traveling.
- Research your desired destinations. Pricing has changed dramatically since last year and you may have to rethink where you want to, or can, go. Outside the country is still pretty restricted. Why not travel to our country…lots to see here and you’ll help bring our economy back up.
- Car Maintenance, if you are taking a road trip, should be part of your pre-trip costs. Get the oil changed, fill the fluids, maybe have the interior detailed, rotate or buy new tires if necessary. Tell your mechanic your plans if you have an older vehicle and ask if your car is in good enough shape for the trip. Renting a car may be cheaper than risking a breakdown midway (and less stressful).
- Try clothing on in advance. The “19” in Covid-19 could possibly stand for the extra weight gained last year. So you don’t tap out your budget on new outfits, try shopping at thrift stores and consignment shops for your travel wardrobe! New clothes for cheap! Win!
- Make a Checklist when you’re not in a rush. Look around your house to see what might trigger a “to-do” for when you leave. Nothing is worse than walking out the door and forgetting a major task, like paying your utility bill or buying dog food for your house sitter.
During Your Trip!
Yay! You’re on your way! Whatever your plans, make sure that the “getting away” part is actually fun and relaxing. Some tips to enjoy your trip more are:
- Don’t try to do too much. Frantically cramming in as much as possible will surely spoil all the fun. If your itinerary has something to be accomplished every day, you’re missing the point of a vacation.
- Be flexible with your time. Spontaneity can add a lot of spark to your holiday.
- Down. Your. Phone. If you feel the need to post nearly every moment of your time away, then you haven’t really gone “away”. Yes! Take pictures and maybe post one or two but save the bulk of your “insta” and another social media posting for when you get back.
- RE-LAX! Sleep until you wake up. Sit and read a book (a FUN book…no self-help or politics) all day. Have midday cocktails. Find out where the locals go for fun. Eat the ice cream or yummy dessert. Try new foods.
As a final treat, and maybe the best one, for your vacation…hire Clarkston Cleaning to scrub your home while you’re gone! When you get back, all you will have to do is unpack and do some laundry. What a great finale for your trip!
Photo Credit: Photo by Nubia Navarro (nubikini) from Pexels
