We all love going away on holiday spending a week or two exploring new cities or relaxing on the beach but the build up can be pretty busy and stressful. Packing can be daunting and its important that we don’t forget any of those essential items.
Following a simple packing guide can really help, that you don’t forget anything.
Before you go………..
Deep Clean
Give yourself time before you go to have a really good deep clean. Its will make all the difference when you return home and allow you to focus on the unpacking and holiday washing. Empty all your bins add new liners and make sure all the toilets have bleach in the pan so they smell lovely and fresh when you walk in.
Make sure your laundry is up-to date
There is no better feeling than an empty laundry basket and a non-existent ironing pile. This can be rare for busy families but challenge yourself before you go away to ensure you are up to date. You are going to be coming home with a big pile of washing and ironing and you really do not need to add to this pile. If you are struggling for time there is no harm in using a local ironing service.
You may also be coming home to back to school, make sure uniform is all ready hanging up in wardrobes ready for that first day back and school bags packed.
Declutter as you pack
Now is a really good time to tackle any clothing clutter. When you are packing for your holiday use this time to pick bits out of the wardrobes that are no longer worn and create a pile for reselling or charity. You will be surprised at what you find that no longer fits or will just won’t wear anymore.
File away that build up of paperwork along with any old magazines and newspapers that will be out of date upon your return.
Food Delivery
If you have a regular food delivery organise this before you go so you don’t have to go to the supermarket and do a full weekly shop. You can always add to the list whilst you are away, but don’t arrange delivery for when you step in the door, delays and traffic do happen so give yourself a good few hours grace.
Ask someone to drop some fresh milk and bread into your home just before you return so you can at least have a cup of tea and toast.
Plan a meal
Cook up a health meal and pop in the freezer before you go so you can defrost and enjoy when you get home. Holidays normally mean over eating and not eating so well so you will be probably be craving a home cooked healthy dinner. Knock up a quick Bolognese or a stew packed with vegetables.
Let your neighbours know your going away
If you get on well with your neighbours or have a friend that lives close by ask them to put the bin out for you and to water the garden flowers. This can really help as you don’t want to come home to a full bin smelling awful or dead flowers that you have been keeping so well all summer.
Don’t jump straight into socialising
Give yourself a few days before you start to out again with friends and try not to organise any gatherings at your house. Ease yourself back in gently.
Back to work
If you can and have the flexibility book an extra day into your diary so you can give yourself time to adjust after your holiday. There is nothing worse that coming home in the early hours of the morning and then having to be at work for 9am.
Keep your out of office on
Use this tool to your advantage and don’t switch it off until you have caught up.
Check your family calendar
Look at your calendar a few days before you are due home so you are not surprised by meetings or events that are going to sneak up on you for the up and coming week.
