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Are you experiencing more stress than sleep because of work? Yes, you need to earn a living to maintain stability in your life. But when your job is in the driver’s seat, it can be difficult to keep any sense of balance and wellness in your routine. And that’s not how you live a fulfilled life!

Don’t allow your job to rule your life. You can actually save your career by planning a sabbatical while fostering your health and well-being. Below, We’re the Wilsons shows you how to prepare for an exciting adventure away from the daily grind!

 

Know the Benefits    

Keeping the benefits of taking a sabbatical in mind will inspire you to actually do it, even when life throws you a curveball and you feel like you can’t get away from work. First of all, a sabbatical can give you space from your job, which can do a number of things:

  • Help you appreciate your professional experiences over the years.
  • Help you identify the expertise you can contribute to experiences in the future.
  • Allow breathing room to clarify how you want to work and live in the future.

Even if you love your job, a sabbatical can provide the much-needed distance from your daily grind and remind you that there’s more to life than work. A fresh perspective is always a good thing!

 

Brainstorm Ideas

So, what could you do on your sabbatical? There isn’t a single, correct way to go on sabbatical, and the best approach for you will depend on your specific needs and interests. Perhaps one of the most relaxing things you could do is take a road trip across the country.

The U.S. offers incredible diversity when it comes to breathtaking scenery, geographic wonders, and historic sites. If you want to go all the way, rent an RV and stay in a different place every night. You can get a lot of inspiration by keeping up with We’re the Wilsons!

Another option is to volunteer for an organization that shares your values. You could even choose somewhere out of the country and gain valuable cultural experiences.

Some people start a company out of their passion. Even if it begins as a side gig, you might find that you enjoy the work much more, and if there is potential for a profit, it may make sense to build your business instead of going back to your job. Whatever you do, try to rest and recharge along the way. A sabbatical is supposed to be fun!

 

Plan Your Finances   

When planning your sabbatical, you’ll need to organize your finances to ensure you don’t put yourself in a compromised position by taking time off. One way to supplement your income if you’re traveling is to rent out your home. Not only can you earn money while you’re away, but a reliable tenant can make sure your home stays in good shape.

 

Think About Work   

If possible, leave work on good terms. This can make your experience more stressful, especially if you plan to return after your sabbatical. With that said, a sabbatical can actually work in your favor if you ever pursue a career change. Whether you volunteer, care for a sick person, start a side gig, or do anything else generous and productive, include specific activities on your resume to present your time off as a positive.

 

Get Ready to Head Out

Lastly, be sure to tie up any loose ends before you begin your sabbatical. Along with shoring up your finances and speaking with your employer, make sure your pet will be taken care of. If you take a road trip with an RV, you can bring your four-legged companion with you! Otherwise, find a trusted kennel, or ask a close family member or friend to pet sit until you return.

Work and the stress that comes with it will rule your life if you let it. If you’re overwhelmed or need a dose of inspiration, start planning a sabbatical today. Consider the tips above as you strategize your time off, and keep looking for other ways to find rest and joy.

If you enjoyed reading this article, check out We’re The Wilsons for more engaging content today.

 

We are happy to provide another guest article by Leslie Campos. A busy mom herself, Leslie has dedicated her site Wellparents.com to all the moms and dads out there searching for ideas on being physically and emotionally well. She loves to practice yoga, CrossFit and watch The Great British Baking show when not working or running her children to various after school activities

We are happy to provide another guest article by Leslie Campos. A busy mom herself, Leslie has dedicated her site Wellparents.com to all the moms and dads out there searching for ideas on being physically and emotionally well. She loves to practice yoga, CrossFit and watch The Great British Baking show when not working or running her children to various after school activities.

 

Self-Care Rest Trip for the Soul: Cities to Explore

Never taken a self-care trip before? It’s time to put your traveling hat on because a reset vacation can work wonders for your mind, body, and soul. You’ll say goodbye to your stresses, explore with spontaneity, and come back ready to tackle your life with energy and enthusiasm. And if you’ve been looking for inspiration, We’re The Wilsons breaks down excellent cities to travel to when hunting for self-care. Let’s get into it.

 

Why You Need a Self-Care Vacation

According to the American Psychological Association, one in three Americans is stressed. And the reality is most people don’t do anything about their stress, which can eventually lead to burnout and significant mental health concerns. Taking a reset vacation is an effective tool you can use every now and again to combat the stresses and pressures of everyday life. You’ll be able to live your life the way you like it, without worrying about deadlines and responsibilities. Add in a few self-care activities and fantastic attractions, and you’ll find yourself a better employee, parent, and friend. Traveling also adds spontaneity, which is critical for the soul to feel revived and energized. All in all, taking a self-care vacation can benefit pretty much anybody. Want some traveling inspiration? Below are four cities that offer excellent reset opportunities.

 

Houston, Texas

Pampering yourself is easy in Houston. From state-of-the-art float pods to boozy haircut and massage opportunities, you’ll be able to self-care in unique new ways. The city also has its fair share of spas, retreats, and nature activities. If you’re a sports fan, you need to take in a game at the Angel Stadium (let’s go Astros!). Finding discounted tickets online is easy – all you need to do is filter by date, price range, and seat rating. Be sure to use the interacting seating chart feature some online ticket sellers offer. This will let you get a 360-degree view of your seat before finalizing your purchase.

 

Grand Canyon, Arizona

According to Taking Charge, there’s nothing like the beauty of nature to relax our mind and spirit. A trip to the Grand Canyon is an absolute must for nature lovers. With endless views and stunning rocks, you will be mesmerized taking it all in. Be sure to stop at some of the luxury spas surrounding the area or partake in supervised rock climbing or adventure activities.

 

Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs has been the getaway of choice for many a celebrity, and it’s easy to see why. The always-sunny paradise has a variety of dining options and wellness retreats and spas, meaning there’s something for everyone. A visit to the mineral hot springs will be an absolute must as will exploring the unique mid-century modern architecture.

 

Knoxville, Tennessee

This small town in Tennessee is a great escape from everyday life. Its tree-lined streets and historic architecture will have you falling in love, while the Southern charm is extra icing on the top. The bluegrass festival season is a particularly special time to visit, as the area comes alive with music and cheer. If you’re looking to reset your body, the town also has plenty of nature trails and amazing views of the Smoky Mountains, which will revive your spirit in no time! If you’re looking to move somewhere new, Knoxville has a growing job market, which is definitely an added benefit.

Amidst today’s hectic hustle culture, social life cycle, and the past two years living in a pandemic, the need for a vacation has become universal. But instead of spending your time cramming in crowded and hectic activities, try to use your trip as a week to truly rejuvenate. That means no intense schedules, stress-inducing itineraries, or doing anything you don’t want to do. Happy traveling!

If you enjoyed reading this article, check out We’re The Wilsons for more engaging content today.

Image via Unsplash

We are happy to provide another guest article by Leslie Campos. A busy mom herself, Leslie has dedicated her site Wellparents.com to all the moms and dads out there searching for ideas on being physically and emotionally well. She loves to practice yoga, CrossFit and watch The Great British Baking show when not working or running her children to various after school activities.

 

Socially-Distant RV Vacations:
Traveling While Staying Safe and Healthy

Feeling cooped up at home due to the pandemic? Then it may be time for a nice, freeing, feel-good vacation. Don’t worry – vacationing somewhere doesn’t necessarily make you more susceptible to the coronavirus. This is especially true since you’ll be using an RV, which is an island unto itself. Just focus on playing it smart and planning ahead and you’ll have no trouble staying safe and healthy.

In this mini-guide, We’re The Wilsons – experienced campers and RV enthusiasts – offer advice and suggestions on how to vacation in an RV without endangering yourself (or your family): 

Plan ahead

1. What would you like to do?

First, ask yourself what kind of vacation you want to have. Do you want to go on a road trip across the country, seeing a couple of interesting places along the way? Or would you like to go camping in nature for a couple of weeks, with zero sightseeing, and have a campground destination in mind already? If you know what you want, you can figure out the safety precautions you need to take, not to mention the route to follow for maximum safety.  

2. Choose safe destinations

You should, of course, choose safe destinations. Safe destinations, when it comes to the coronavirus, are the ones with few-to-no coronavirus cases reported in the neighborhood. Furthermore, isolated places, away from people and near nature, are considered safer than towns, cities, and urban areas. Campgrounds, by nature, tend to be remote. Some, though, are more remote (isolated or less well-known) than others. Do your homework before you leave.    

3. Make reservations in advance

While making reservations in advance is always a good idea, it’s especially so during corona times. The organizers may need to ensure campgrounds don’t get crowded, for safety reasons, and will likely not allow you entry otherwise. Also, by reserving in advance, you can rest easy knowing your trip won’t be in vain, not to mention you’re going to a well-managed and monitored destination.  

4. Pack for maximum safety (and self-sufficiency)

You want to make sure you have the necessary sanitation and safety supplies on hand. Also, you likely want to minimize contact with shops and supply stores along the way. As such, proper planning is essential:

  • Sanitation and safety stuff: Travel and Leisure offers a good list of safety and sanitation items. Some examples are masks, hand sanitizers, disinfecting wipes, mask chains, a thermometer, a smartphone sanitizer, and a travel pillow.
  • Comfort: RVs can get cold, even the best-insulated ones. Get a space heater if you can. You can decorate it to make it feel like home. Good lighting can help preserve a congenial, healthy environment, as can scents.
  • Travel essentials: You should always pack travel essentials like pillows, bedding, trash bags, coffee mugs, drinking glasses, and camping chairs.
  • Self-sufficiency kit: You can go the extra mile, for maximum safety, by creating your own “self-sufficiency” kit. This would allow you to travel in a self-contained way, without having to stop anywhere you didn’t want to. Some items to pack would be a cooler, stove, water jug, filtration, bucket, power, and first aid kid.

5. Choose the right kind of RV

If you’ve never been on an RV trip before, then you should know your choice of RV is important. There are three main types of RVs: full-fledged Class A vehicles, middle-of-the-road Class B vehicles, and bare-bones Class C vehicles. Driving a Class A RV is a lot like having your very own palace on wheels. A Class C is more suitable if you aren’t with many people, and want to spend more time outdoors. Think about factors like who is going to drive, your camping habits, amenities wanted, and, of course, your budget.

6. Prepare for breakdowns

Your RV likely won’t break down, but things can and do go wrong. As such, make sure you know what to do in the event of a breakdown. If you have a rental, you can usually contact the company that rented you the vehicle for assistance and they’ll send someone over to help you out. If you’ve bought your own vehicle, you may want to join a roadside-assistance program. Furthermore, it’s always a good idea to learn how to do basic RV issues troubleshooting.

7. Consider your kids’ needs

Assuming you’re traveling with your children, it’s always a good idea to keep everyone’s needs and preferences in mind when you plan your RV vacation. Social distancing can be especially tough on them, for example. They may miss the human contact, and not understand why they need to stay away from other kids their age. Talk to them, reassure them, offer fun activities and games, and just be prepared to spend more time with them.

Socially-distant activities you can enjoy safely

You can make your trip more fun and wholesome through activities, whether at the campgrounds or along the way. You can partake in quite a few activities while still practicing social distancing and other basic safety guidelines. Some suggestions:  

  • Camping: If you aren’t “glamping” or staying full-time in your RV, you may enjoy camping outside. You can pitch a tent or just sleep out under the stars if the weather permits. A warm, comfy blanket is a must, regardless. Before purchasing one, consider its size and weight and if it’s waterproof. Blankets make for an essential adventuring accessory and can come in handy inside your RV too.
  • Outdoor activities: You can go biking, hiking, swimming, boating, and more, whether individually or in a small group. It’s a great way to stay fit and do something exciting. You can also always play games like football or soccer.
  • Nature attractions: Visiting nature attractions like parks, lakes, and nature preserves is a healthy, enjoyable activity for the whole family. Some example destinations are the Yosemite Natural Park and the Grand Canyon.
  • Hobbies: Picking up a new hobby, whether alone or with your family, can help you fill up your spare time productively. Some examples are reading, learning something new, or developing a skill you always wanted.
  • Virtual tours: You can still enjoy tourist attractions without visiting them in person by signing up for virtual tours. Many of them are free and almost as good as the real thing.  

How to Stay Safe on your RV journey

Staying safe may require some extra precautions on your part.

1. Check CDC recommendations

The CDC regularly publishes domestic travel guidelines for COVID-19. It’s a good idea to refer to them before you go. Some of their current suggestions include getting vaccinated, testing before you go, wearing masks, and following local health regulations.

2. Follow basic Covid safety regulations

All basic Covid safety rules and best practices apply. Some examples are staying 6 feet away from others at all times, avoiding crowds, avoiding poorly-ventilated spaces, washing your hands often, coughing in your hands or napkin, cleaning, disinfecting, and regularly monitoring your health.  

3. Follow general safety recommendations

As you may be aware, the coronavirus isn’t the only danger on an RV trip. There are countless other dangers you need to account and prepare for, just in case. Some examples are theft, accidents, vandalism, and natural disasters. Follow RV camping best practices and drive defensively to keep you and your family safe.

Conclusion

RV traveling is a wonderful way to travel and have a full-fledged vacation while staying away from the coronavirus madness. Focus on being self-sufficient, avoid crowds, and follow basic safety precautions and you’ll have no trouble being safe and healthy.

Image via Unsplash

We are happy to provide another guest article by Leslie Campos. A busy mom herself, Leslie has dedicated her site Wellparents.com to all the moms and dads out there searching for ideas on being physically and emotionally well. She loves to practice yoga, CrossFit and watch The Great British Baking show when not working or running her children to various after school activities.

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Simple Tips for Planning a Refreshing Trip for the Whole Family

If your family is like most, you’re eager to take a fun and relaxing vacation this year. But when you have kids, planning such a vacation takes a little more time and thought than it would if it was just you and your significant other.

Nonetheless, there’s no reason why you can’t plan the trip of a lifetime that includes something for everyone in your family. Whether you have babies, toddlers, and/or older kids, coming up with a strategy early on will help you lay the foundations for an awesome vacation. And We’re the Wilsons has some tips to help you get started:

Commit to saving.

It may seem impossible to travel with the entire family if you are not uber-wealthy. But if you prioritize travel and make room in your budget, it might be more obtainable than you think. The key is to save money.

Spend frugally and intentionally. Buy only what you need at the grocery store, and limit how many times per week you dine out. And create an inspiration board to hang in your home that will motivate you to save money for your next trip.

Take time to plan.

A lot goes into planning a trip. The first step is to give yourself time to devise a plan. When traveling with your partner and children, you must consider everyone’s needs. Look for deals on accommodations, food, and entertainment that will help ensure the comfort and enjoyment of each person. And start thinking about what you need to pack well in advance.

Get the supplies you need.

ZenBusiness has some suggestions when it comes to items you don’t want to leave behind – like your camera and passports. Speaking of packing, the earlier you start purchasing any items and supplies you need for your trip, the less stressed you will be when it comes time to depart. Do any of you need clothes, sunscreen, or sunglasses for the beach? Start looking online for good deals now. And if you need a top-notch travel bag, be sure to browse our selection!

If you’re bringing your pet along on your trip, you may need to invest in supplies for them as well. Some essentials to include are collapsible bowls, food, toys, and a travel crate. Make sure your pet has any necessary vaccines and that they get cleared from their vet for travel. Moreover, since there’s a good chance your pet will get dirty on your trip, consider bringing a dog hairdryer, shampoo, brush, and other grooming supplies.

Research destinations.  

The destination you choose is critical for your family vacation. While there are countless destinations that can provide your family with a good time, focus on those with beaches. Simply put, it’s hard to beat the beach when it comes to keeping toddlers and older children entertained. Sand, waves, and sunshine will make any child happy!

Strategize your itinerary.

Finally, create an itinerary that will offer something each day to everyone in your family. This does not mean to pack your schedule with nonstop movements. When you have kids, everyone will be much happier if you embrace the philosophy of slow travel. That said, you will be best served by researching activities and attractions well in advance and creating a loose schedule that will help your family get the most out of your trip.

Taking a family trip is one of the best ways to create lifelong memories with your loved ones. But when you have children, there are many considerations to make, and you want to start planning your trip as soon as possible. Along with following the tips above, keep researching how you can prepare for an amazing family vacation while saving money along the way.

 We’re the Wilsons is intended to let our friends, family and you see where we are, look at what we are up to, observe our travels and adventures! We’d love to hear from you.

We are happy to provide a guest article by Leslie Campos. A busy mom herself, Leslie Campos has dedicated her site Wellparents.com to all the moms and dads out there searching for ideas on being physically and emotionally well. She loves to practice yoga, CrossFit and watch The Great British Baking show when not working or running her children to various after school activities.

 

 

Simple Money-Saving Tips for Your Next Vacation

 

Many of us could use a getaway at some point during the year, but it’s not always feasible to fund a vacation even on the smallest terms. It is possible to start saving money a little at a time, however, and by doing it this way you can avoid creating money issues because you’ll never miss it.

 

The first step is to figure out where you’d like to go and how you’ll get there, since those are the two biggest costs you’ll face. It’s a good idea to look online for deals and to get an idea of the best time of year to visit certain spots, as there are always slower months that provide discounted rates for accommodations and transportation. You can also check out We’re The Wilsons, a travel blog that provides resources and ideas for anyone who’s ready to hit the road. Here are a few tips on how to save money on your dream trip (or just for a little weekend jaunt).

 

Grab some deals

 

It’s possible to have a great vacation on a budget, but you have to do a little research to find the best deals. Once you know where you’d like to go, take a look at Rent.com and set your budget, pet needs, and the number of bedrooms to filter out locations you don’t want. There are lots of options, as the site offers over 1,680 rentals around the Orlando area, and you can go with a small studio or a 4-bedroom depending on your family’s needs starting at $300.

 

Once you find the right place, think about the type of transportation you’ll need to get there. Road trips can be lots of fun with a little preparation, and they’re often the most budget-friendly option as well. If driving isn’t in the cards, search for flight deals and keep in mind that flying mid-week is often cheaper than leaving on the weekend, so you’ll need that information before booking your check-in date at the rental.

 

Start a change jar

 

Once you know where you’re staying and how you’re traveling, it’s time to start saving. An easy way to put some money aside is to set up a jar where you can throw loose change throughout the week. Place it near the laundry area or on the kitchen counter so that everyone in the family can participate, then a few days before your trip, take the jar to the bank or the nearest location with a money changer and cash it in for bills. The best part of this method is that you won’t even miss the change, but it really adds up.

 

Pick up a side gig

 

A change jar is a great way to save money for road snacks and gas, but when it comes to the more costly vacation bills, you might need to think bigger. An easy way to add to your vacation fund is to pick up a side gig, such as driving for a rideshare service or get rid of items you no longer want on an app like Poshmark or eBay. You might find so many benefits that you decide to hang on to the gig permanently!

 

Make small changes at home

 

There are also some ways you can save money just by changing up your lifestyle a bit. Making coffee at home instead of hitting the drive-thru, getting rid of streaming or subscription services you no longer use, making energy-efficient changes to your house, and working out with equipment at home rather than paying for a pricey gym membership are just a few ways you can make budget-friendly changes. You can also approach your grocery trips a little differently, utilizing meal prep ideas and coupons in order to keep the bill low.

 

Saving money for a vacation doesn’t have to be intrusive or stressful. By making a few small changes to the way you do things and actively looking for deals online, you can plan a trip you and your loved ones will never forget.

 

Have a question for experienced travelers? Get in touch today.

 

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