the vacation cure

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get ready to go

Choosing the vacation you desire—not the one you feel obligated to take—is the all-important first step to reaping the benefits of time spent away. That means giving yourself permission to visit that tropical island (like the one on your computer screen saver) rather than spending a week with the in-laws again.

Once you’ve chosen your dream destination, consider the calendar. Traveling off-season often means cheaper airfares and hotels, fewer crowds, and more personal attention from hotel and restaurant staffers. Or pick a time that might be slower at work, so that you’ll feel more comfortable being away from the office.

When planning an itinerary, do your research and keep it simple. It will be more relaxing to make a hub of one or two places, avoiding the inconvenience and effort of constantly schlepping luggage as you switch hotels. Try not to cut short one activity to rush to the next, as that only adds stress.

Pad your vacation budget by an extra 10 percent for those unexpected costs that always arise, such as an impromptu spa treatment or tickets for the family to a local concert. That way, leisure activities won’t be the source of worry, just enjoyment.

A week before you depart, start a checklist of what you need to bring. Everyone should begin packing a few days before you leave; do not wait until the night before. Pack lightly, sticking with one or two basic colors. Bring plastic bags for laundry and shoes. To minimize bulk and avoid rummaging through your suitcase later, store folded T-shirts, socks, and undergarments separately in jumbo-size resealable plastic bags. Consider keeping your toiletry bag fully stocked year-round so you can just pop it into your suitcase before leaving.

At work, if possible, delegate any daily responsibilities so that during your trip you’ll be able to relax knowing that the tasks are getting done.

Create a master list of emergency information and home-care instructions on your computer. That way you can update it as necessary and use it for future vacations. Print out multiple copies—one each for the house sitter, neighbors, family members, and yourself. Also prepare a household checklist so that you can rest assured you haven’t left the oven on or the alarm system off.

Prepare healthful snacks—sliced apples, grapes, dried fruits, nuts, cheese—for the family to enjoy in transit. The night before you leave, spend a little time tidying up the house. Returning to an orderly home will do wonders for your post-trip state of mind.