Must Do's Before You Travel
My Must-Do’s Before Vacation (So I Can Actually Relax While I'm Gone)
You know that moment when you're finally zipped up, bags by the door, and you're this close to vacation mode—but your brain is still spinning? Yeah, I’ve been there. Over the years, I’ve nailed down my list of non-negotiables that I do before any trip so I can truly unplug and not return to chaos. If you're a fellow list-lover or just want to feel a little more pulled together before you leave, here’s my personal vacation-prep ritual.
1. Apply Red Aspen Nails = Instant Confidence
You know I can't go anywhere without my Red Aspen nails! There’s just something about having fresh nails that makes me feel like I have my life together, without the price of the salon. I love the Red Aspen glue-on nails because they’re not just cute but are durable enough to stay put through all our vacation adventures.
2. Self Tanner for That Vacation Glow
I always make time for a quick self-tanner session before we leave. Nothing over-the-top—just enough to give my skin a healthy glow and help me feel a little more radiant in those swimsuits. It also cuts down on the pressure to sunbathe right away, which is a win for both confidence and skin health. Pro tip: I do it the night before I leave so it has time to develop and settle. Here is my favorite! Use code: thehaircutbox
3. Glue-On False Lashes = Zero Maintenance
Because mascara + beach days = a raccoon situation I’d rather avoid. I pop on my favorite Pro Lash eyelashes before I leave, that give me the freedom to feel like no other makeup is necessary! Here are my favorite brand that last! Use code: ashlie
4. Brain Dump: A To-Do List for When I’m Back
This one’s underrated. I sit down and write out everything that’s floating in my head that I know will stress me out when I set foot in the house—appointments, errands, game, or work stuff I’ll need to catch up on. Getting it on paper frees up brain space to just enjoy the trip.
5. Have a Little Heart-to-Heart with the Kids
Before I head out, I make time for a check-in with the kids. Whether they’re coming with me or staying behind, that connection time is everything—for both them and me. If they are staying behind it allows me time to make sure they are set up with everything they will need while I am gone. If they are coming along, then we chat about things they hope to do on the trip as well as the important things they need to make up for school.
6. Buy a New Razor
Because there’s nothing like a fresh razor to make your legs feel ready for vacation (especially that poolside lounge chair). Plus, I always forget this if I don’t put it on my list. Here are my favorite!
7. If You Can..Buy One Thing That Makes Me Feel Confident
Just one. A dress, a swimsuit, maybe a pair of sunnies that make me feel like the main character. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just something that gives me that extra.
8. Dye My Eyebrows
Game-changer. It makes such a difference in looking “done” without makeup, especially on a beachy or low-maintenance trip. Here is what I use for mine!
9. Schedule a House Cleaner
Coming home to a clean house? Chef’s kiss. I always try to book someone to come while we’re gone so I can walk into calm instead of clutter. Total luxury, totally worth it.
10. Clean Out the Car
You know how fast cars can go from spotless to snack-wrapper nightmare in the blink of an eye. I make sure it’s cleaned out before we leave so I’m not overwhelmed the second we get home.
11. Clean Out the Fridge
This one is boring, but necessary. No one wants to come home to moldy strawberries and questionable leftovers. I do a quick fridge sweep the day before we go. Bonus Tip: don't forget to empty all the garbages!
12. Schedule a Walmart Delivery For When You Get Home
The BEST hack. I plan a grocery delivery to land right after we get home—milk, bread, eggs, whatever we’ll need. It helps us jump back into real life without the mad grocery dash. A Walmart+ subscription has been a game changer with fast delivery.