Post-Travel Blues Are Real (and Totally Normal)

 

Photo by Neakasa on Unsplash

So, you just got back from a trip. Your suitcase is half-unpacked, you’re still finding sand in your shoes (even though you’ve already vacuumed), and suddenly your to-do list looks a mile long. The magic of travel fades faster than your tan, and now everything at home feels a little… blah. Yep, you’ve got the post-travel blues.

Honestly? It happens to the best of us.

You go from soaking up sunsets in new places, eating amazing food, and being in that glorious “out of office” mindset—to sitting in traffic, sorting emails, and trying to remember where you left off on laundry. It’s a jarring switch. And while it’s great to be home, part of you misses the adventure, the freedom, and maybe even that slightly questionable hotel breakfast buffet.

Why Do We Feel This Way?

Travel shakes things up—in the best way. Every day is new. Your senses are lit up. You’re in a flow of discovery. Then suddenly, you’re back to your usual routine, and even the smallest tasks (like grocery shopping or replying to messages) can feel like a letdown.

It’s like going from full technicolor back to grayscale. But don’t worry—it’s not permanent.

Ways to Shake the Blues

Ease back in.
Give yourself a day or two (if you can) before jumping right back into work or commitments. Do something simple and comforting—take a walk, cook your favorite meal, or just nap unapologetically.

Journal it Out.
Write about your trip—what you loved, what surprised you, and what you want to remember forever. It’s a sweet way to relive the memories and process the experience.

Sort through your photos.
Settle in with a cup of something warm and scroll through your camera roll. Pick your favorites, delete the blurry ones, and maybe even make a little album or slideshow. It’s like reliving the best parts all over again—and honestly, it's a mood-lifter.

Watch movies or shows from where you were.
Missing Paris? Watch Midnight in Paris or a French mystery series. Just got back from Tokyo? Stream a Japanese drama or anime. It brings the vibe of the place right back into your living room.

Plan something to look forward to.
Doesn’t have to be another big trip. It could be a coffee date with a friend, a movie night, or even just a weekend hike. A small “next thing” can make a big difference.

Become a tourist in your own town.
Explore local spots you’ve never been to, visit a museum, try a new café, or take a walking tour. Sometimes the best adventures are right in your backyard. 

13. Start planning your next trip.
Even if it’s a year away or still a dream, researching and planning your next adventure gives you something exciting to look forward to—and keeps the wanderlust happily buzzing.

Let yourself miss it.
Feeling a little sad post-trip doesn’t mean you’re being dramatic—it means you experienced something special. Let it settle in your heart without guilt.

The Best Part?

The fact that you’re feeling this way probably means your trip gave you something meaningful. And that’s a beautiful thing. You’ll find your rhythm again, and when you do, you might even start dreaming about the next adventure.

Until then, take it slow. Be gentle with yourself. And maybe keep that suitcase out—just in case.

Have you ever had the post-travel blues? How do you shake them off?