Your Ultimate Guide to a Stress-Free Cottage Weekend

There’s nothing quite like escaping to the cottage for a weekend of fresh air, quiet mornings, and evening bonfires. But between packing, planning, and getting out the door, even a simple weekend getaway can come with its fair share of stress. The good news? With a bit of prep, your next cottage escape can be all about peace, not pressure.

Here’s your ultimate guide to a stress-free cottage weekend.

1. Start with a Simple Packing List

Avoid the chaos of overpacking or forgetting the essentials by making a checklist. Keep it short and organized by category:

• Clothing: Think layers—hoodies, bathing suits, a rain jacket, and comfy loungewear.

• Toiletries: Bring the basics, plus bug spray and sunscreen.

• Food & Drink: Plan simple meals (bonus if you prep ahead), and don’t forget snacks and coffee!

• Entertainment: Books, cards, Bluetooth speaker, maybe a board game or two.

Pro tip: Keep a laminated list in your weekend bag to reuse every time you go.

2. Prep Food Before You Go

You’re not heading to the cottage to spend hours in the kitchen. Do some light meal prep before you leave—marinate meats, chop veggies, or make a pasta salad. Prepping a few grab-and-go breakfasts like muffins or overnight oats can make your mornings easier too.

3. Leave Work at Home

Set an out-of-office reply. Mute notifications. Let your contacts know you’ll be off the grid. A true cottage weekend should feel like a break from the daily grind—not just a change of scenery. If you’re tempted to check emails, consider leaving your laptop behind altogether.

4. Time Your Drive Smartly

Nothing kills the vibe like sitting in traffic. If you can, leave on Thursday evening or early Friday to beat the rush. Make sure your car is gassed up, your directions are saved (especially if cell service is spotty), and your playlist is queued.

5. Make Room for Doing Nothing

It can be tempting to pack your weekend full of hikes, boat rides, and BBQs. But don’t forget to leave time for doing absolutely nothing. Sip your coffee on the dock. Take a nap in a hammock. Watch the sunset. The best memories are often the slow, simple moments.

6. Bring the Right Company

Whether it’s your partner, your kids, or your closest friends, the people you share your weekend with make all the difference. Choose company that’s low-drama, up for a laugh, and comfortable with a little unplugged time.

7. Unplug to Recharge

Cottages and tech don’t always mix—thankfully. Use the spotty Wi-Fi as a cue to disconnect. No social media scrolls, no doom-scrolling news, just fresh air, good conversation, and maybe a starry sky.

A stress-free cottage weekend doesn’t have to mean total off-the-grid living—it just takes a little planning and a willingness to slow down. Pack light, prep ahead, and embrace the ease of cottage life. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows by the fire or enjoying a quiet paddle across the lake, the goal is simple: unwind, recharge, and come home feeling better than when you left.