How to Take a Vacation When You Don’t Have a Vacation

By Catherine Santino

Everyone needs a break now and then, especially after a hectic work week. But unfortunately and too often, we just don’t have the time or money to take the week-long tropical vacation we’re dreaming of. However, there are some little things you can do to recharge and reenergize, wherever you may be. 

How to Take a Vacation When You Don't Have a Vacation: Recharge, Refresh & Reenergize 

1) Pamper Yourself

If you find yourself insanely busy, a massage is a great way to relax without taking an entire day out of your schedule. A super affordable way to do this is to check out any massage or cosmetology schools in your area; they offer the same services as a spa for way less money, and are often good quality. If you are really short on time and money, draw yourself a bath. Light candles, play music, read a book, and just relax for a little while.

Make your own at home spa, here is how

2) Spend Time With Friends

Going out to dinner with a few of your closet friends to unwind, vent, and laugh uncontrollably the entire time is probably my favorite way to blow off steam when I’m feeling stressed. It totally takes my mind off of whatever I have going on and reminds me that I have great people in my life who are there for me. If you don’t have time for that- just call your best friend. We communicate so much by text or Facebook messages nowadays that a good, long phone conversation with your bestie is sometimes the best medicine.

Relaxing with friends over a warm cup of coffee 

3) Get outside

Spending time outside is a great way to relax and recharge. Find a hiking trail near you and take a Saturday exploring with a friend. Or just pack a picnic and find a nice spot to sit and enjoy a view. And make sure to leave technology at home; staying away from your phone and laptop for a bit is so liberating and sometimes exactly what you need after a long work week.

Ice skating in Paris 

4) Take A Day Trip

Maybe you don’t have time to take a week of vacation, but taking a day or weekend trip is a much more realistic way to get away for a bit. Research towns near you that are driving distance away and things you can do there. Sometimes a change of scenery, if only for a little while, is the perfect remedy for stress. If you don't know where to go, here are the top 5 weekend getaway ideas.

A weekend out in New York City 

Don’t think that you have to take some fancy vacation just to relax a little. There are so many things you can do to revitalize and recharge right at your fingertips. The most important thing is to allow yourself to take time just for you, because you deserve it!

Relaxing at the Monocle cafe in London