Vacation’s Over….Now What? 6 Easy Ways To Unpack And Get Back on Track
You’ve just had the trip of a lifetime with sun, snacks, sandy toes, and maybe even a few extra souvenirs that seemed like a good idea in the gift shop. But now you’re home, your suitcase is still sitting in the hallway, and your brain is in that post-vacation fog where laundry piles and to-do lists are the last thing you want to face.
I see you. I am you. And as a professional organizer, I can tell you this - vacation clutter is real, but it doesn’t have to stick around longer than your tan.
Here’s how to unpack, reset, and bring that vacation calm into your everyday life one simple step at a time.
1. Don’t Wait! Unpack Within 24 Hours
Let’s be honest, unpacking is not the most exciting part of coming home. It’s easy to walk past that suitcase, especially when you’re trying to get back into your daily routine with work and chores. But the longer it lingers, the more it becomes a clutter magnet.
Set a timer for 20 minutes. That’s often all it takes to unpack, toss dirty clothes in the laundry, and put the rest away. Bonus points if you delegate a suitcase to each family member or create an “unpack and unwind” ritual like cueing your favorite playlist or lighting a candle to make it feel less like a chore.
2. Sort Souvenirs Like a Pro
Souvenirs can be sweet reminders or instant clutter. Here’s a quick rule of thumb: if it doesn’t serve a purpose or bring you joy, don’t let it take up space. Keep the postcard that made you laugh. Frame that photo-worthy print. But the three identical magnets? Choose your favorite and donate or repurpose the rest. For kids, try creating a small “travel box” or scrapbook to hold memory items and set the expectation that each child gets one per trip, and no overflow!
3. Laundry First, Folding Later
If your laundry basket is overflowing with sandy swimsuits and wrinkled tees, focus on washing, not folding.
Start a load right away (preferably the smelliest one), and sort the rest by priority. Think swimwear and sweaty clothes first, jeans and basic tees or sweaters last. And here’s your organizer’s permission slip: it’s okay to live out of clean laundry for a day or two as long as it’s contained. Use a spare basket or bin to hold the clean clothes until you’re ready to put them away. Bonus if it’s labeled “Clean Laundry.” A tiny bit of containment = a BIG mental win.
4. Tame The Toiletries
If you use travel-size toiletries or a dedicated toiletry bag, this is your moment to do a quick reset. Toss any half-used bottles that leaked or expired. Refill your travel containers now, not later. Future You will thank you when you pack for your next trip! If you grabbed free hotel shampoo you’ll never use, donate it. Store your toiletry bag fully packed in one place, so you’re ready for the next getaway.
5. Do A 15-Minute Reset For The Rest Of Your Home
Travel disrupts routines. So take 15 minutes to walk through your space with fresh eyes. Are there items dropped at the entryway, mail that piled up, or random vacation purchases sitting on the kitchen counter? Grab a laundry basket and do a quick sweep of “stuff that doesn’t belong.” Then go room by room and put things back where they belong. This fast reset helps your home feel functional again, and it’s a great way to involve the whole family.
6. Recreate The Feel Of Vacation At Home
Part of what we love about vacation is the vibe: fewer distractions, lighter schedules, a clean hotel room. So once you’ve decluttered, ask yourself, “What can I bring into my daily life that felt so good on vacation?” Maybe it’s a fresh towel on your bed. A candle that smells like the beach. A no-phone hour every night. Your space and your schedule can support that relaxed mindset, even long after the suitcase is zipped up.
Ready for Your Fresh Start?
Getting organized after a vacation helps you do more than catch up. It gives you a fresh, focused start at home.
If you’re still staring at the unpacked suitcase (no shame!), I’m here to help. Whether it’s a post-trip reset or a full space refresh, Fresh Start Organizing is just a message away.