Have you ever come home from a trip and felt…not yourself? I did! It actually seems quite natural. After all, we spend time planning and looking forward to a trip, and then before we know it, we are home and it’s all over. If you’ve ever experienced post-travel depression, here are a few ways to help keep it at bay!

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Let me clarify by saying that I’m not an expert, and if you are experiencing true and lasting post-travel depression, please seek professional help. Below are just tips that I’ve found helpful in my experience.

Staving Off Post Travel Depression

have a clean space

Often I leave in a rush, and my bedroom (and home!) becomes a whirlwind of packing castoffs and things left undone. Plan in some time to tidy up before you leave so that you can feel good about the space you are coming home to.

bring home meaningful souvenirs

I adore surrounding myself with things I love that remind me of places I’ve been. My favorites are jewelry and paintings, but choose whatever suits you! Whatever it is will serve as a great reminder of your journeys.

create

Do you love being creative? Why not craft something inspired by your trip? Journal your thoughts, paint a watercolor or make a meal based on exotic foods you had while you were exploring. Eat away at that post-travel depression!

gather with friends

Friends can always lift the spirits! Why not have them over for a time of telling them about your trip, showing photos and also making that meal I mentioned in the above section. I promise you’ll have a good time (hopefully!).

be a hometown traveler

There are probably SO many things to explore right where you live. You don’t have to go far to find ethnic eateries, historic sites, and natural areas. Take a peek at what is right next door! See my post HERE on how to do so.

get a good night’s sleep

This is such a good one! Be sure to sleep well before you leave AND also get a great night’s rest when you get home. Your body and mind with thank you for it.

schedule a day to recoup

Have you ever gotten back on a Sunday afternoon only to hit the ground running on Monday morning? Why not plan in an extra day to recoup and rest before you have to get back to the grind?

design an album

I love doing this. It’s a great way to cull through your favorite photos while reflecting on the parts of your adventure that you truly loved. Plus, you’ll have a fun keepsake or coffee table book. Peek HERE on how to make your own!

plan your next trip

Whether it’s five months or five years away, making plans gives you something new to look forward to. Plus, it affords you the opportunity to save up funds for your next trip.

connect with other travelers

Did you meet anyone while you were away? Keep in touch! There are also many Facebook groups and Instagram accounts you can follow that can fulfill your wanderlust as you think about where you want to go next.

Happy traveling!

photo by Daria Shevtsova