As you pack for your #winter #getaway, take note of what doesn’t make it into the suitcase. You likely have lots of items in your wardrobe or #closet that simply won’t make the cut, even if they’re perfect for someone else’s beach #vacation or a night out. Set those items aside in boxes and bags, and contact ClothingDonations.org for a free #donation #pickup. If you have the time, go ahead and make it a complete closet #purge! That will give you a sense of accomplishment and ample license to reward yourself with some well-earned R&R. Bon voyage, wherever it is that you decide to go! #WinterGetaway
Tag: winter
Save by Going to an Off-Season Destination
Not all #winter #getaways need to be at the beach, says The Planet D. Pick one of your favorite destinations that isn’t in high demand during winter, and chances are that most necessities — airfare and accommodations included — will be available at reasonable rates. That means U.S. destinations that are slightly warmer (think New Orleans or Savannah, Ga.) are good options, and those with a chance of seasonally inclement weather of their own (Seattle, New York City, Washington, D.C.) are eager for tourist dollars. You may not find a lot of deals if you’re a skier who’s actively looking for snow, however. #WinterGetaway
Pack to Save Money on Baggage Fees
With so many airlines charging not-insignificant fees to check a bag, #packing for a #winter getaway has gotten a lot more strategic over the years. Most airlines allow only a small carry-on bag and personal item with an economy fare, so you’ll have to make the most of the space you’ve got. If you plan to travel for a week or more, start with a “capsule” wardrobe that includes some of your favorite essentials, says Going. Wear clothes multiple times, minimize on shoes, and plan on doing laundry or having it done during your trip. And remember to leave room for souvenirs! #WinterGetaway
Plan an Affordable Winter Getaway
With #winter storms sweeping the nation last week, you may be feeling the need to take a quick trip to see friends or bask in the tropical sun. The good news is that there is still time to book a jaunt, says Thrifty Traveler. Some of the best airfares of the year are available now, making beach destinations outside the United States such as Cancun, Cabo San Lucas and even Costa Rica are surprisingly affordable. What’s more, the dollar is currently quite strong against many foreign currencies, meaning you can spend less on the vacation essentials — hotel, food and fun — once you land. #WinterGetaway
Bringing Warmth to the Winter Home
Once all of the #holiday celebrations are complete and the temperatures drop to single digits, you may struggle to create #warmth — real or perceived — in the home. The cold weather and empty social schedules of January may prompt you to enter a protective hibernation.
The cold-weather cultures of Scandinavia tell you to lean into that feeling through #hygge, the concept of warmth, comfort and quiet conviviality practiced when the weather outside is cold, blustery and otherwise inhospitable.
Hygge demands quiet comforts such as cozy sweaters and throws, casual get-togethers with friends and family, and plenty of hot meals and beverages such as coffee, tea and hot chocolate. Candles and a fire in the hearth only add to hygge’s #warm, golden glow.
Creating real warmth in winter may require a few #household fixes, however. The first thing to check is your furnace filter — if it hasn’t been changed recently, dust and dirt may be blocking heated air. Change it so that the heat travels to the vents efficiently and with fewer allergens.
Half the battle of staying warm in #winter is to keep the heat inside and the cold outside. Adding insulation, area rugs and a chimney flue blocker are simple ways to keep the warmth from escaping and save money on heating costs.
Other simple fixes include 10 home heating “hacks” from Better Homes & Gardens. They include insulating drafty windows with bubble wrap and sealing window frames with fresh caulk. To quickly warm the kitchen and create a homey atmosphere, fire up the oven and bake some cookies or braise a roast.
We at The Organizing Blog like to save energy and set our thermostats to 68°F throughout the winter. But we also have plenty of blankets and throws we can use to stay warm, some of which were #thrifted from stores supplied by generous #donations to ClothingDonations.org.
You can also generate #heat by staying active — getting on the treadmill, painting a room or thoroughly #decluttering and #organizing a space. After you #schedule a #donation #pickup for all of that extra #stuff, reward yourself by bundling up, pouring a hot beverage and relaxing.
There’s nothing like the warmth of a #clean, cozy and #uncluttered home. Follow a few of these tips to stay warm, whatever winter brings!