There’s nothing quite like that Friday-at-5-o’clock feeling of freedom. The weekend is always something to look forward to, and it’s even sweeter to reach the end of the week when you have a trip planned.
We are all guilty of letting time and money determine our decisions. Not only do vacations take a while to plan, but they can be super pricey as well. I know for me, finding the time to take a vacation is a task that seems near impossible. One way that I’ve made it work is by taking mini “vacations” throughout the year. So, even though I’m not taking a week or two off of real life, I’m still getting in the R + R that my mind, body, and soul desperately needs.
Living in Pennsylvania allows me a few great options when it comes to getting away for the weekend. I’m a short drive from NYC, Baltimore, D.C, and the Jersey beaches. I recently took a weekend trip to the beach with my Mom to get away from the city a little bit. The weekend started out a little stressful as we got lost and got a ticket (let’s not talk about it). Quick tip–I recommend downloading some apps that help you avoid traffic woes (like Waze and PhantomAlert) before setting off on your journey. But, we didn’t let that get us down! We had a weekend full of kayaking, good food, long walks, antique shopping, and some serious bonding that we really needed. We also unplugged for the entire weekend, as our condo didn’t have wifi–and it was glorious.
The beauty of a weekend getaway is that it allows you to reap the feel-good benefits of vacation without removing yourself from work and can be a more cost-effective way to get away for a bit.
Here’s your guide to planning a weekend excursion that you mind, body, and wallet will thank you for.
1. Go Somewhere That Suits Your Interests
On a longer trip, you have time to truly explore and try new things, but a weekend getaway only gives you two days of wiggle room. Therefore, you should head to a location that gives you what you want most from your time off. For example, if you’re in dire need of relaxation, head to a beach or nearby hotel known for its spa treatments.
2. Find the Closest Viable Option
Let’s further reiterate the fact that a weekend is pretty short. You don’t want to fly across the country or drive hundreds of miles. Do some research on your surrounding towns and states, your next adventure might be only a short drive or train ride away.
Once you’ve settled on the purpose of your vacation, find the closest viable option to which you can travel for a short jaunt. You might discover that you can stay in your hometown and enjoy the adventure or leisure you seek. Staycations are a popular option and provide you with that away-from-home feeling without those travel fees.
3. Pack Light
You’re only leaving town for a weekend, so bring only what you need for two days. Consider your itinerary and pack appropriate outfits for all of your planned activities, but don’t overdo it. You don’t want to spend unnecessary time lugging a huge suitcase with you. Indeed–packing doesn’t have to be stressful!
4. Bring Someone With You
The only thing better than a weekend getaway is sharing it with someone you love. Choose a companion whose interests align with yours, so there’s no conflict over what you’re going to do in your short amount of time. Not only will you share memories post-trip, but you’ll also spend more time together than you do during the week.
5. Be Present
It’s hard to find a time in which you’re completely untethered to technology, but I propose that you try to do so on your next weekend getaway. Take minimal email checks, don’t answer non-emergency calls, and make a point to only scroll through your social media feed once per day. You only have a couple of days to enjoy life away from the real world, so make them as real- world-free as possible.
With these tips in mind, you should be ready to plan and enjoy a weekend excursion that renews your spirits. Once you realize how easy it is and how wonderful a break can be, you’ll probably find yourself planning weekend getaways more often and, hey—there’s nothing wrong with that.
Do you have a favorite weekend getaway spot?
Also by Cori: 4 Ways to Update Your Workout Routine This Fall
Related: My 5 Favorite Ways to Live Like a Parisienne
5 Travel Ideas to Cure Your Life Crisis
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Photo: Kaboompics
