"Like most 23-year-olds with a phone addiction, I’m obsessed with podcasts, and one of my absolute favorite podcast subgenres is those hosted by influencers. To me, the crown jewel is Tinx’s podcast, It’s Me, Tinx. Recently, I listened to an episode where Tinx introduced the concept of “vacation energy.” It’s the idea that on vacation, you’re your best self—more confident, less stressed, and open to new experiences. Yet, when we return home, we leave that “vacation self” behind. With summer mostly in the rearview mirror and no glamorous trips on the horizon, I’m eager to bring vacation energy into my everyday life without the cost of a plane ticket. If you want to make every day feel like a vacation, here are 10 ways to infuse your daily life with that vacation vibe.
What Is Vacation Energy?
Vacation energy is hard to define because it’s more of a feeling than anything else. It’s the sense of freedom that comes with a trip where you’re not constrained by daily responsibilities. Your days are yours to fill as you wish—experiencing new things, meeting new people, and escaping your routine. However, you can replicate this feeling at home, even with all your daily responsibilities. Here’s how to make every day feel like a vacation:
10 Ways to Bring Vacation Energy to Your Everyday Life
1. Talk to strangers
I’m the kind of person who has headphones on 24/7 when I’m out and about in my hometown. No grocery store run, shopping trip, or hot girl walk is complete without a podcast constantly playing. Is this a little anti-social? Maybe, but it’s become my autopilot routine. On vacation, however, it’s the opposite. I’m taking in the scenery and striking up conversations with the people around me as the most outgoing version of myself. During these convos, I often meet new friends and get incredible recommendations for things to see and do. When you’re home, try taking the AirPods out and talking to the people around you. In the worst-case scenario, you just exchange a few pleasantries. In the best case, you live out the plot of Before Sunrise.
2. Wear that outfit you would typically reserve for a trip
One of the most exciting parts of a vacation is planning the outfits you will rock. Something about being in a new place gives you that extra boost of confidence to wear that new dress or bold top that still has the tags on it. However, there’s no real need to wait for a trip to finally reach for that one outfit you’ve been dying to wear. Not only will this replicate the vacation-level confidence you feel when away from home, but wearing a killer outfit also makes an ordinary day feel a little more special.
3. Look at your town like a tourist
A large part of vacationing is, of course, sightseeing. While there may not be stunning beaches or world-famous museums and historical sites in your area, there are likely still plenty of things to do and see. Playing tourist in your own city is a fun way to break up your normal routine and explore places you’ve never ventured before. It’s also an excellent opportunity to try trendy restaurants or discover hidden gems you haven’t had a chance to check out.
4. Live like you don’t know anyone around you
It’s so liberating to exist in a place where no one knows you except the people you came with. You’re not as worried about other people’s perceptions of you or as fearful of judgment. If you can’t constantly jet off to new places, replicate this feeling at home by letting go of what the people around you think. I know, I know, it’s far easier said than done, but pretending like you don’t know anyone around you can help you live more authentically and stop worrying about what other people are thinking.
5. Prioritize fun
On vacation, fun is pretty much all we’re worried about, but in everyday life, doing something just for fun often feels like a luxury. Even if you have a packed schedule, you can still make time for activities you enjoy, whatever that is. For some, that may mean waking up early so you have time to read the book you can’t put down. For others, peak fun is hitting the town with your girlfriends with a margarita in hand. I’m not suggesting you slough all your responsibilities onto someone else and make life a party all the time, but simply look for small ways to incorporate more fun into your life.
6. Romanticize the simple things
On vacation, even getting your morning coffee is exciting because it’s a new experience. I am a firm believer in romanticizing life, and it’s the perfect way to tap into vacation energy. With the right mindset, your last-minute neighborhood Starbucks run can suddenly rival the charm of sipping espresso at a café in Paris. Finding joy in the simple pleasures of life adds a touch of vacation magic to each day.
7. Practice gratitude
Gratitude often comes easily on vacation because you’re surrounded by things you appreciate. Whether it’s a beautiful view, being reunited with friends, or just the time off work, there’s a lot to be thankful for. Making gratitude a daily habit replicates that energy when you’re home. Start each day by listing a few things you’re grateful for to shift your mindset toward positivity and appreciation. Gratitude isn’t a fix-all for your problems, but it can be a small step in the right direction.
8. Allow yourself to indulge
When on vacation, I’m the queen of treating myself. A sweet treat with every meal, cute little souvenirs, and that top that caught my eye in a boutique are all par for the course. While budget constraints might limit indulgences at home, you can still allow yourself little luxuries. You don’t even have to spend money to indulge. It can be as simple as lighting your favorite candle, spending an afternoon binge-watching reality TV, or making a comfort meal for yourself.
9. Unplug
Trust me, I’m as chronically online as they come, but even my screen time is lower on vacation. It’s no coincidence that when I’m off my phone, I’m much more present in the current moment. While we all need some time to rot every now and then, making an effort to put your phone down more often during the day can make a huge difference. Instead of sitting on the couch and scrolling, spend your evening getting outside, trying a new hobby, or chatting with a friend IRL.
10. Set boundaries
On vacation, setting boundaries is easy because you’re removed from everyday demands. If you find you’re more relaxed on trips because you’re not constantly asked for favors, consider setting clearer boundaries in your daily life. You may not have an ocean separating you from your responsibilities, but you can still establish rules to protect your time and well-being.
Lauren Blue, Lifestyle Staff Writer
As a Lifestyle Staff Writer for The Everygirl, Lauren ideates and writes content for every facet of our readers’ lives. Her articles span the topics of home decor, delicious recipes, hobbies, travel itineraries—and everything in between. When she isn’t testing the latest TikTok trend, she can be found scouring Instagram for beautiful homes to feature on the site.