There’s no feeling quite like walking through your own front door after a trip—that first deep breath of home air, the bliss of sinking into your own bed, the relief of not living out of a suitcase for five minutes. As much as I love traveling, coming home is its own kind of magic.

But let’s be real: travel wreaks havoc on your body. Between recycled airplane air, questionable hotel water, and the inevitable “I’ll sleep when I’m dead” mentality, my skin, energy, and general well-being always need some serious TLC post-trip.

So, whether you’re returning from a beach getaway or a fashion week sprint, here’s my step-by-step recovery routine to feel human again.

Step 1: The Great Unpack (Before the Suitcase Becomes a Permanent Fixture)

I used to let my luggage sit in the corner for days, half-unzipped and spilling clothes like a fabric volcano. Now? I unpack immediately. It’s tedious, but it signals to my brain: Vacation’s over. Let’s reset.

✔ Dump everything in the laundry (even the “I only wore it for two hours” top).
✔ Wipe down my suitcase (airport germs are not souvenirs).
✔ Restock my toiletry bag (so I’m not scrambling for toothpaste next trip).

Step 2: Skin Rehab 101

Travel skin is a special kind of tragedy—dry, dull, and often sporting a surprise breakout. Here’s how I bring it back to life:

The Double Cleanse

• Oil cleanse to melt off flight grime (yes, even if you washed your face mid-trip).
• Gentle foaming wash to reset without stripping.

The Hydration Surge

• Hyaluronic acid serum on damp skin (seal in moisture before the air steals it).
• A thick night cream (slugging optional but highly encouraged).

The SOS Treatments

• Under-eye masks (for bags bigger than my carry-on).
• Spot treatment (because airplane air always leaves a gift).

Step 3: Eat Like You Love Yourself Again

After days of airport snacks and one-too-many “treat yourself” cocktails, my body craves real food. My go-to reset meals:

✔ Green smoothie (kale, banana, almond butter—it’s basic but it works).
✔ Miso soup with veggies (gentle on the stomach, big on flavor).
✔ Dark chocolate (balance is key, people).

Step 4: The Movement Mindset

I don’t force a hardcore workout right away—instead, I focus on gentle movement to shake off stiffness:

• 20-minute yoga flow (downward dog > jet lag).
• Long walk outside (sunshine + fresh air = instant mood boost).

Step 5: The Ultimate Luxury: SLEEP

Nothing compares to your own pillow. To maximize the first night back:

✔ Silk pillowcase (less friction, more glam).
✔ Humidifier blasting (to combat the desert-like plane air aftermath).
✔ No screens an hour before bed (harder than it sounds, but worth it).

The Payoff

This routine isn’t just about fixing dry skin or unpacking efficiently—it’s about ritualizing the transition from “travel mode” back to “real life.” And honestly? That first morning waking up in your own bed, with hydrated skin and a fridge full of real food? Chef’s kiss.

Your Turn!

What’s your post-travel must-do? A specific meal? A skincare hack? Share below—I’m always looking for new ways to recover faster!

(P.S. Need my favorite travel-sized skincare recs? Peep them [here].) ✨