Camilla Jessen
Saying goodbye to your summer vacation is especially difficult. That’s precisely why we should do something to combat the post-holiday blues.
Returning to work, school and everyday life after a holiday can be a serious mood-killer.
Here are 10 realistic ways to beat the post-vacation slump and bring a little sunshine back into your daily routine.
Why Coming Home From Vacation Feels So Awful
The beach was warm, the sky was clear, the days were slow.
And now you’re stuck in traffic, your inbox is overflowing, and the weather has turned grey overnight.
If you’ve ever felt unusually down after returning from holiday, you’re not alone. The post-holiday blues are very real, and very common.
Suddenly, you go from freedom and fun back to routine, deadlines, and adult responsibilities. Your body and mind go into shock mode. Even if you had a great trip, the adjustment can be hard.
10 Simple Ways to Beat the Post-Holiday Blues
But the good news is: there’s a lot you can do to soften the blow.
This was reported by Esquire.
1. Give Yourself a Buffer
Don’t land at midnight and start work at 8 a.m. the next day.
Return a couple of days early if you can.
Use that time to unpack, rest, and mentally re-enter your home routine—slowly.
2. Avoid a Monday Return
Mondays are hard enough already.
If possible, plan your return mid-week.
That way, you only have to push through a few workdays before the weekend arrives to save you.
3. Fix Your Sleep Rhythm Early
Vacations often throw off your sleep.
To ease back into daily life, start shifting back to your normal bedtime a few days before your return.
You’ll feel more refreshed and less grumpy.
4. Plan Something Fun at Home
Don’t let your trip be the last thing you look forward to.
Schedule something enjoyable right after you get back.
It could be a dinner with friends, a movie night, or even just a cozy evening with your favourite book.
5. Get Chores Done Before You Leave
Coming back to a messy apartment is a recipe for a mood crash.
Do the laundry, take out the trash, and change the sheets before your trip.
Returning to a clean, calm home makes a big difference.
6. Recreate the Vacation Vibe at Home
Cook a dish from your trip. Sip coffee on the balcony. Play that playlist from the road.
Small habits that remind you of vacation can help extend the joy even if the tan fades.
7. Look at Your Photos (and Share the Fun)
Don’t keep the memories locked away on your phone.
Print a few pictures, make a photo book, or invite friends over for a slideshow night.
Talking about your trip helps you process it and celebrate it.
8. Get Moving Again
Exercise is a powerful mood booster.
Even a short walk can help you shake off that heavy “back to reality” feeling.
Try continuing any movement habits you picked up while travelling like beach yoga or morning stretches.
9. Let Yourself Feel Bad (Temporarily)
It’s okay to be in a bad mood after vacation.
It doesn’t mean you’re ungrateful. It just means you’re human.
The more pressure you put on yourself to snap out of it, the longer it may linger. Give it a few days.
10. Book the Next Trip
Even if it’s six months away, having your next adventure on the calendar gives you something exciting to look forward to.
The anticipation alone can lift your spirits.
And hey, if you can afford it, why not book a mini getaway sooner rather than later?
