Last week, my friends and I made our way back to campus after spending 6 nights in the Dominican Republic. And it hit us like a truck. I’ll never complain about a week of tanning by the pool, but I wasn’t exactly prepared for the exhaustion that pummeled me when I returned to Boston. Here are some pointers to avoid feeling like you need a vacation from your vacation.
First of all, I think it’s always a good rule of thumb to carry Liquid I.V. with you. If you’re unfamiliar, Liquid I.V. is an electrolyte powder that you add to your water for extra hydration. If you’re spring breaking somewhere tropical, this is a must after a long day in the sun. Even if you’re vacationing in a colder climate, it’s easy to forget to hydrate after a long car or plane ride. Moral of the story: stay equipped with Liquid I.V. (I wish I took my own advice on this one).
This next tip is a basic one but it’s definitely not one you want to forget. Make sure you pack solutions to any and all possible ailments. Band-aids (a week straight of wearing heels causes major blisters), Advil and Tylenol, Tums, and other over-the-counter meds will be your best friend.
If you’re traveling by plane, make sure you don’t overpack your carry-on. This was my biggest downfall when I was at the airport. I stuffed my backpack so much that when it was time to pull out my passport and other papers, I had to completely rearrange my bag. It was not worth the annoyance, especially since airports are already stressful as is.
Also, be sure to dot your i’s and cross your t’s when it comes to the required paperwork you need to board the plane. If you’re somebody who goes by a nickname, be sure you use your full name to buy your ticket and fill out your forms (a kid next to us in line in the Punta Cana airport had to spend $500 on a new plane ticket because of a Bobby/William mix-up).
My last tip is to stock up on vitamins. I’m currently battling a brutal cold that I confidently blame on my week of traveling. Pack vitamin C, zinc, and elderberry and take them daily to boost your immune system and to prevent getting sick. Airborne (a tablet you dissolve in your water) will also help to prevent the common cold. Trust me on this one — I’m definitely wishing I did this when I was away.
Following these quick tips will help make your spring break go as smoothly as possible. Hopefully, you’ll return from vacation feeling refreshed and relaxed — not drained.
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