8 Vacation Tips Every Woman Needs This Summer

Summer is almost here! Just the thought of taking a vacation conjures up the feel of cool ocean breezes, the smell of salty air, and the peaceful sound of waves crashing along the shore. Whether your dream getaway includes relaxing on a tropical beach, exploring a bustling city, or escaping to the mountains for rest and renewal, summer is the perfect time to step away from the demands of everyday life and make lasting memories. But before you pack your bags and head out the door, read my 8 tips to enjoy a smooth, stress-free vacation.

1 – Build in R&R Days: When you’re traveling to a favorite vacation spot or venturing into new unchartered territory, you may be tempted to pack your itinerary.  You want to see popular sites, venture out on excursions and experience the best entertainment your destination has to offer.  But all that ripping and running will wear you out!  So, plan some rest and recovery days.  Every one- or two-days plan to do absolutely nothing. Give yourself the freedom to sleep in and do nothing but rest.

2.  Unpack Your Bags: Don’t live out of your suitcase — take a few moments to unpack your bags and get organized.  Put your undies in the drawer, hang your dresses in the closet and take over the counter in the bathroom just like you do at home! Unpacking your bags allows you to find things with ease.  It’s like getting dressed at home where everything is in its place (well — sometimes). Pro-tip: Bring extra hangers (hotel rooms never have enough).

3. Don’t pig out: I know this is a hard one, but if you heed this advice, you’ll thank me later.  Now I’m a firm believer in eating the cake and buying the shoes — so indulge in your favorites and be sure to try something new.  Just don’t go overboard.  Your body will revolt if you change your diet too much.   Rich, fatty, starchy sugar-packed foods will suck all the moisture from your gut, and you know what that means — bowel-block city. Constipation is definitely a vacay vibe killer.  So, sneak in some fruits and veggies (fries don’t count) and drink plenty of water.  If you find yourself feeling stuck (no pun intended) I’ve got a fix for you in tip 4.

4.  Bring the whole medicine cabinet.  Prescription meds are always at the top of the packing list but be sure to pack those over the counter meds too.  Resorts, cruise ships and tourist spots are famous for hiking up the price on toiletries and over the counter meds.  They know you need it and will pay the price for it. Here’s my list of must bring OTCs for vacays: BC or aspirin, ibuprofen, antacids, decongestant, laxative (I prefer Phillips pills – no cramping), Gas-X, allergy meds, pain ointment (Icy Hot), antiseptic (Neosporin), Dramamine and band-aids.  I also bring a shaver, shaving cream, sunscreen, insect repellant, tampons and panty liners. Better to have it and not need it, than need it and pay an arm and a leg for it.

5.  Remember the Romantic Accessories:  Now this one is just for the ladies with the tan line on their ring finger (your husbands can thank me later). Vacation is a great time to ignite the flames in the romance department.  So, pack some sexy lingerie,  fragrant lotions, and slick massage oils. Don’t forget to bring those unmentionables hidden in your nightstand. No need to be embarrassed – God says the bedroom is undefiled and that goes for the vacay bedroom too!

6. Disconnect from work:  I’ll keep this short and sweet.  Set up those email auto replies and leave the laptop and work phone at home.  You’re taking a vacation to get away from work — don’t take work with you!

7.  Stay connected to God: A vacay from the rest of the world doesn’t mean a vacay from God.  Continue to pray, praise, give thanks and read your Bible.

8.  Add Two Recovery Days:  Have you ever felt like you need a vacation to recover from your vacation?  Day after day of traveling, sight-seeing, and adventure seeking will leave your gas tank empty.  So, give yourself some recovery time: one day to rest and relax and another day to unpack and re-organize.  Going back to work will be much easier when you’re prepared and rested.

Vacations are more than plane tickets and hotel stays — they’re your opportunity to rest, reconnect, reset, and create memories with the people you love. With a little planning and a lot of intention, your summer getaway will leave you refreshed in body, mind, and spirit. So pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and live in the moment. Enjoy your vacay!