How to Take a Vacation even if you aren’t Leaving Home
Right now, I’m sitting waist-deep in a plunge pool, my laptop perched safely on the edge working on a school deadline. It’s the kind of moment that reminds me why I made the choice to step away, even with my busy schedule. Taking a break, even when life is overwhelming, isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
But here’s the thing: not everyone can drop everything and go on a vacation. Time, finances, and responsibilities don’t always allow for it. That doesn’t mean you can’t feel like you’ve taken a vacation. Rest and renewal don’t require a passport or plane ticket; sometimes, they’re just about stepping outside of your routine in an intentional way.
Here are a few ways anyone can try to make it feel like a vaction without actually flying to somewhere tropical…
1. Change Your Surroundings
A vacation is often about where you are, but it’s really about how you feel. You don’t need a beach resort to recreate that feeling—you just need to break out of the usual rhythm.
Try a staycation by booking a night in a nearby hotel or Airbnb.
Rearrange your space at home to feel fresh and new.
Spend a day at a local spa, park, or even just a quiet café with a good book.
2. Unplug Like You’re Away
One of the best things about a vacation is the permission to step back from work and daily obligations. You can do this at home, too.
Set an "out of office" mindset, even if you’re not leaving.
Put your phone on ‘Do Not Disturb’ for an afternoon.
Plan a “vacation day” where you only do things that bring you joy.
3. Eat Like You’re Traveling
One of my favorite parts of traveling is discovering new foods. You can bring that experience home by:
Trying a new cuisine you’ve never cooked before.
Ordering takeout from a restaurant you’ve never visited.
Hosting a themed dinner night with friends or family.
4. Slow Down Your Schedule
Vacations force us to step out of the rush of daily life. Instead of waiting for an actual trip, try:
Blocking off an evening with nothing planned.
Saying no to extra commitments for a weekend.
Letting yourself wake up without an alarm at least once a week.
5. Find Mini Adventures
Not all vacations are about relaxation—sometimes, they’re about experiencing something new. You can bring that sense of adventure into your everyday life by:
Taking a different route home and seeing where it leads.
Visiting a museum, gallery, or local attraction you’ve never been to.
Learning something new just for fun—like a dance class or painting session.
6. Create Space for Joy
At its core, a vacation is about joy, rest, and feeling present. That feeling isn’t reserved for travel; you can bring it into your life whenever you choose.
Whether it’s soaking in a bath like it’s a hot spring, eating breakfast outside like you’re at a café, or simply watching a sunset with your favorite drink in hand—vacation moments are all around you, waiting to be noticed.
So even if life is busy, and the next big trip feels far away, remember that rest isn’t something you have to earn. You can take a vacation without ever leaving home.
What’s your favorite way to recreate a vacation feeling in everyday life? Let’s chat in the comments!
Warmly,
Jessica
The Birches Collective