Beat the Post Vacation Blues

Why Returning Home from Vacation Feels Like an Eternity 

The trip's done. Those blissful days lounging on the beach are fading memories. It's time to face the reality of the journey back. When you were heading out, it felt like a whirlwind of excitement and packing worries (did I remember clean socks?). But now, the same travel time stretches into a never-ending slog. Airport delays, traffic jams, and uninspiring snacks make the minutes feel like hours. You wonder how you ever survived the trip out and vow to stay home forever. 

What makes the return journey so different? 

The Crush of Disappointment 

Let's be honest – that "journey not the destination" idea sounds fantastic when you're anticipating your adventure. Once it's over...not so much. As philosopher and writer Yonason Goldson points out, traveling to somewhere new comes with a rush of anticipation. We imagine exciting experiences, vibrant sights, and the promise of making new memories. In contrast, heading home feels like a downer. 

Neuropsychologist Sanam Hafeez, based in New York City, compares it to your commute. Heading to work, your mind's abuzz with the day's tasks and possibilities. But, by the end of the day, exhaustion sets in. All you want is to collapse on the sofa. Hafeez knows this feeling well. After relaxing weekends at her mountain getaway, there's no mystery to the drive home – just the looming pile of laundry and emails awaiting her. 

"Especially on long-haul flights," adds Gary Small, a psychiatry expert and author of "The Memory Bible," "you're itching to get home. You yearn for familiar faces and routines." He remembers how, as a kid, those final school minutes seemed to drag on forever. The anticipation of playing outside made time slow to a crawl. 

Perhaps it's not just routine calling you back. Some travelers admit to a wave of post-holiday sadness – yes, the Germans even have a name for it: Post-Urlaubsdepression. After all, when you're having a blast, time seems to speed up. But facing the usual grind? It's understandable if time feels like it's moving at a snail's pace. 

But Sometimes, the Return Trip Is Faster 

A small but vocal group of travelers I surveyed disagreed. They find the journey outbound takes the longest. Occasionally, this is practical – a strong tailwind, especially when flying eastwards, can literally shave hours off your flight. 

However, other times, it's a matter of mindset. Psychologists Hafeez and Small talk about the "return trip effect." We often underestimate how long the first leg of a trip will take. This sets up false expectations, making it feel longer. On the flipside, having experienced it once, the return journey might feel a little shorter in comparison. 

Familiarity also plays a role. The first journey might be mentally taxing as you navigate new routes. But, on the way back, knowing the way reduces some of that cognitive strain. 

Taking the Edge Off the Trip Home 

We get it – sometimes the journey home just feels like a chore. But, there are ways to make it more bearable, even enjoyable. As a memory and brain health specialist, Dr. Gary Small often suggests ways to keep your mind engaged without overexerting it. Light mental challenges, like puzzles (if you're not the one driving, of course) or stimulating conversations, can help distract you from the passage of time. 

"Discovering a new route, even if it takes a little longer, activates different parts of your brain," Small adds. "You're focused on the present moment, not just wishing the journey was over." 

Dr. Hafeez agrees, recommending filling your time with things you enjoy. If you have a lengthy car ride, download audiobooks or podcasts you've been meaning to get to. Or, schedule phone chats with friends and family you'd like to catch up with. 

Think about how you can add bits of enjoyment to the trip itself. Could you schedule a stop at a quirky roadside attraction? Or, plan a delicious meal at a restaurant you love along the way? Breaking up the journey with mini-events can make a huge difference. 

Travel expert Susan Sherren works with clients to create trip itineraries that ease them in and out of their holidays. She advises starting your vacation slowly, with relaxing activities. Then, build up to the most action-packed days in the middle. Finally, taper off toward the end, leaving space for decompression before you have to head home. 

Speaking of home, pre-planning some treats for your return can soften the blow of landing back in reality. Perhaps order your favorite takeout for the first night back, or book a cleaner to tackle the inevitable mess. Anything that lessens the immediate stress makes a difference. 

Can You Trick Your Brain? 

While travel psychology focuses on making the journey more pleasant, others believe you can actually trick your brain into perceiving time differently. One controversial theory is the "holiday paradox." It suggests that the sheer novelty of being in a new place, bombarded with new sights, sounds, and experiences, forces our brains to process more information. This makes time feel as though it's passing more slowly. 

The science behind this is still debated, but there's something to be said about the power of novelty. That's why even a quick weekend getaway can feel rejuvenating – you've broken out of your usual routine. Could you incorporate bits of that into the journey itself? Perhaps explore a new area at your layover airport or listen to music in a genre you normally wouldn't. 

Another strategy involves mindfulness. Instead of fretting over the time, try focusing on the here and now. Notice the scenery changing outside the window, or the rhythm of the train if that's your mode of transport. Meditation apps can guide you if this concept is new. 

Of course, some journeys are just plain long and no amount of distraction techniques will change that. In those cases, acceptance is your friend. Surrender to the fact that it's going to take a while. Use that time to rest, plan your to-do list for when you return, or simply let your mind wander. 

The Bottom Line 

While the science on why some journeys feel longer is ongoing, it's clear our state of mind plays a massive role. A healthy dose of anticipation, some strategic planning, and a willingness to find joy in the little moments can transform an otherwise tedious trip home into a more manageable (perhaps even enjoyable!) part of your travel experience. 

The Role of Technology (For Better or Worse) 

Let's face it: technology is an inseparable part of how we travel these days. It can either be your best friend or magnify the frustrations of a long journey home. 

On the positive side, our phones and tablets open up a world of entertainment. Gone are the days of staring out the window in boredom on long flights. Now, you can binge-watch your favorite shows, get lost in a captivating audiobook, or finally make a dent in that podcast queue. 

However, Dr. Hafeez offers a word of caution. "Our phones keep us tethered to our regular lives – emails, social media, even news alerts. If you're trying to mentally unplug after a vacation, it's counterproductive." She suggests trying periods of intentional disconnection. Put your phone on airplane mode and relish the break. 

Another tech frustration arises when things don't work the way they should. Spotty Wi-Fi, dying batteries at crucial moments, or glitchy maps can add unnecessary stress to the journey. Travel experts recommend packing essentials like a portable charger and downloading maps for offline use. 

Of course, technology comes to the rescue in other ways. Apps like Waze offer real-time traffic updates, helping you navigate delays and find the fastest routes. Flight tracking apps can notify you of potential issues or gate changes, saving you from unnecessary airport sprints. 

Speaking of airports, some are embracing technology to enhance the traveler experience. Singapore's Changi Airport boasts an indoor butterfly garden, movie theatre, and even a rooftop pool – perfect for turning a long layover into a mini-adventure. 

When the Journey Home Is the Adventure 

For some, the trip home isn't a necessary evil, but a core part of their vacation experience. Adventure travelers and road trip enthusiasts often relish the journey as much as the destination. 

Think of those epic cross-country road trips, complete with quirky roadside stops and scenic detours. Or the thrill of navigating public transport in a foreign country, where every wrong turn becomes a funny anecdote. These journeys are unpredictable and force you to be completely present – the opposite of watching the clock tick by. 

If this resonates with you, consider building more open-ended travel into your plans. Instead of flying straight home, could you take a scenic train route? Or, add a few extra days to explore a different town or city that lies along your journey? 

Sometimes, all it takes is a simple shift in mindset. Instead of seeing the trip as a chore to endure, try to view it as an opportunity for unexpected discoveries. It might make all the difference to your journey home experience. 

Practical Tips for a Smoother Ride 

No matter your travel philosophy, there are some practical things you can do to ease the journey home: 

Comfort is key: Dress in layers, bring your favorite travel pillow, and pack snacks you enjoy. A little indulgence can go a long way in making the experience more pleasant. 

Stay hydrated: It's easy to forget to drink enough water while traveling, leading to fatigue and crankiness. Keep a reusable water bottle with you and refill it regularly. 

Move your body: Long periods of sitting can make you feel stiff and sluggish. Get up to stretch or walk around whenever possible, even if it's just pacing the airport terminal. 

Be prepared: Double-check your travel arrangements, pack essential documents, and allow for extra time in case of unexpected delays. 

Coping with the Post-Vacation Blues 

Even the most fantastic holiday has to end eventually. Stepping back into the routines and responsibilities of everyday life can feel jarring. Throw in a dose of travel fatigue, and it's no wonder many people experience a post-trip slump. 

It's not just your imagination. Psychologists recognize that a return to reality after a fulfilling experience can trigger feelings of sadness and even mild depression. The more exciting and out-of-the-ordinary your trip was, the stronger this "post-vacation crash" might be. 

Travel planner Sandra Weinacht points out that this is especially common if your vacation contrasts sharply with your everyday life. If you spend your days at a desk job, for example, lounging on a beach followed by the return to work can feel incredibly abrupt. 

How can you ease this transition? First, acknowledge the feelings, rather than trying to ignore them. It's normal to feel a little down after a period of fun and relaxation. Be gentle with yourself and don't expect to jump straight back into things at full speed. 

Easing back into your work schedule can help. If possible, negotiate a day or two of working from home. Or, see if you can start your workweek mid-week to give yourself a shorter adjustment period. Avoid overloading your schedule with social engagements and chores right away. 

Bringing a little piece of your vacation back into your life can also work wonders. Did you discover a new cuisine you love? Try finding a local restaurant or recreating the dishes yourself. If a relaxing beach holiday was your thing, book a massage or spa treatment to prolong that zen feeling just a little longer. 

Photos are one of the best souvenirs and a beautiful way to combat the post-vacation blues. Dedicate some time to going through the pictures you took. Print out a few favorites to display, or put together a digital photo album to share with loved ones. Revisiting those happy memories is a wonderful mood booster. 

Plan something to look forward to, even if it's small. It could be a dinner date with friends, an upcoming concert, or simply starting a new book. Having something on the horizon breaks up the monotony and gives you a little positive focus. 

When the Blues are More Than Just a Slump 

For most people, these post-trip lows fade after a few days or weeks. However, if your sadness persists, or if it's significantly impacting your daily life, it's worth considering if there might be something more going on. 

Persistent low mood, changes in your sleep or appetite, and difficulty concentrating can point to depression, which can be triggered or worsened by major life transitions – even positive ones like a vacation. 

Don't hesitate to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor if you're struggling. There's no shame in asking for support and it could make a huge difference in getting back on track. 

Perspective is Everything 

It's helpful to remember that vacations are an escape from the ordinary. They're designed to be packed with fun, novelty, and a freedom from responsibility that we can't sustain indefinitely. Trying to replicate that feeling in everyday life is a recipe for disappointment. 

Instead, the challenge is finding ways to sprinkle moments of joy, meaning, and relaxation into every day. This could be as simple as taking a walk in nature, connecting with a loved one, or immersing yourself in a hobby you enjoy. 

Ultimately, the way you perceive your journey home is a choice. Will you see it as a tedious chore, or an opportunity to reflect, recharge, and plan your next adventure? 

Finding Gratitude (Even When Travel Gets You Down) 

Let's be real: sometimes, no amount of careful planning or mindset shifts can change the fact that heading home after an incredible trip feels like a downer. Delays, grumpy seatmates, and lost luggage can put a damper on even the fondest vacation memories. It's in those moments that focusing on gratitude can be surprisingly powerful. 

Take a few moments—even while stuck in the middle of a travel ordeal—to acknowledge the things that did go right. Perhaps the initial flight was smooth as silk, or you had an unforgettable meal at a hidden gem of a restaurant. Focusing on the positives, no matter how small, can prevent a negative experience from completely coloring your perception of the entire trip. 

Gratitude extends beyond specific events, too. Remind yourself of the privilege of being able to travel at all. Many people can only dream of the experiences you've had. Reflect back on the personal growth, new connections, or cultural insights you gained from your trip. 

Studies show that practicing gratitude actively rewires our brains, boosting feelings of happiness and contentment. Keeping a travel journal is a great way to cultivate this habit. Write down a few things you're grateful for at the end of each day, whether it was a stranger's kindness, a breathtaking view, or simply a delicious cup of coffee enjoyed in a new place. 

Finally, remember that the end of one trip is simply the beginning of the next adventure. Start brainstorming ideas for your next getaway, even if it's just a weekend escape to a nearby town. The anticipation and planning process are all part of the travel experience and can inject a spark of excitement even as you return from the last trip. 

In Conclusion 

While there's no single magic trick that will make the journey home feel as exhilarating as your outbound flight, recognizing the powerful role of our mindset is key. Sometimes it might feel like travel gets the best of you, but with a shift in perspective, the right strategies, and a dose of gratitude, you can make even the "return trip effect" work in your favor. 

Travel is an amazing gift. It has the potential to broaden our perspectives, create cherished memories, and expose us to the wonders of the world. Embracing the entire journey, with its highs and inevitable lows, makes it all the richer. 

So the next time you find yourself sighing at the thought of the journey home, take a deep breath and remember – you've done it before, and you'll do it again. The world awaits, and there are countless adventures yet to come.