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Vacations nowadays aren’t what they used to be. Even when you manage to get away, there’s still social media, friends checking in to see how your trip is going, and coworkers bothering you with problems off the clock. This can be especially problematic for vacations where you want to be left alone; the average newlywed couple’s honeymoon will last from seven to nine days, and if either partner has a phone with them, you can be sure that sometime during that week there will be interruptions.
However, just because we live in a technology-filled world doesn’t mean our vacations have to be stressful as a result. Use these tips to take a break from technology and really enjoy your vacation.
- Be accountable: You might be surprised how much technology you use on a day to day basis to begin with. Go through your normal daily routine and take stock of where you’re using technology; at work, out with friends, or even in the car. GPS was first introduced in automobiles in 1996, and since then more technology has been integrated into cars in ways you might not expect. List out all the technology you currently use before your trip so you know what to cut down on.
- Plan ahead: Know in advance what amount of technology you’re willing to have on your vacation. This will help you limit impulsively checking social media when you reach your vacation spot. Keep in mind that it’s okay to not fully disconnect, too; sometimes totally disconnecting isn’t an option. In those cases, pick which accounts you do and don’t want to check while you’re away.
- Use apps: Yes, you read that correctly. Sometimes the best way to beat your impulse to check on your social media is to make use of apps designed to block certain types of internet usage, such as social media or other apps. While these are typically used for parents blocking children’s technology access, they can be useful tools when trying to disconnect from social media.
- Leave it at home: Sometimes the best deterrent to using technology is to just not have it with you in the first place. When you leave your home, hotel room, or wherever you’re staying for your trip, leave your phone in the room. That way, you won’t be tempted to look at it while you’re out. If you absolutely have to have it with you for emergency purposes, make sure anyone who would contact you fully understands your definition of “emergency,” so you won’t be bothered unless absolutely necessary.
Planning a disconnected vacation can be difficult, but if you use these tips, you and your whole family will be able to take a break from the hectic modern world we live in today.