Escaping to the cabin is one of life’s greatest joys. You can relax, unplug and unwind, surrounded by nature and the beauty of the outdoors. But if you’ve ever been on a weekend getaway at your cabin, you know how uncomfortable it can be if you don’t have the right amenities. The key to making your cabin comfortable is to bring enough of the comforts of home with you while still keeping it rustic and cozy. Here are five ways to make sure your cabin is as comfortable as possible for a weekend getaway.
Bring Your Own Blankets and Pillows
Cabins are often not equipped with enough blankets or pillows for everyone in your party. Bring some from home so you don’t have to sleep without them. Not only will this make sleeping more comfortable, but if you’re camping out on the deck or in front of a fire pit, you’ll need extra blankets for warmth against the night air. If there’s room in your suitcase or car, consider investing in some high-quality camping pillows too—they may cost more than everyday pillows, but they are well worth it when it comes to comfort.
Make Sure Your Bedding is Clean and Fresh
If you’re staying at a cabin that already has bedding provided, make sure it is clean and fresh before you settle in. Wash all sheets and blankets before use—this will ensure that any dirt or bugs from previous guests won’t be around when it’s time for bed. If the bedding isn’t up to par (or looks like it hasn’t been washed), bring along some sheets from home so that everyone gets a good night’s sleep without worrying about any crawlies.
Make Sure the Cabin is Structurally Sound
The last thing you want is for your cabin itself to not be ready for your weekend. Before you settle in for your getaway, it might be a good idea to check that the cabin is structurally sound. Look at the walls, windows, and floors for any signs of damage or decay. Make sure the roof isn’t leaking and that all electrical outlets are properly grounded. If you need to, call a roofing contractor or an electrician beforehand.
Check to see if there are enough smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors installed in case of an emergency. If you notice any issues, it’s better to address them before they become a bigger problem. By ensuring the cabin is safe and secure, you can rest easy knowing that everyone in your party will be comfortable for the duration of your getaway.
Bring Extra Lighting
Cabins are often dimly lit, if they’re lit at all. Bring along some extra lighting sources such as lamps, headlamps and battery-powered lanterns so that everyone can find their way around safely after dark. This will also make reading easier if anyone wants to catch up on their favorite books while they’re away from home. Plus, having some extra light sources creates an inviting atmosphere that will keep everyone in good spirits throughout their stay.
Pack Some Creature Comforts from Home
It may sound silly, but bringing some creature comforts from home can really go a long way toward making your cabin stay enjoyable. Pack items like board games and cards for entertainment; snacks like trail mix or granola bars; favorite teas or coffees; warm socks; comfy slippers; and cozy sweatpants; anything that makes being away from home feel like being cozied up at home. When these items are packed into suitcases or duffle bags, they instantly create an atmosphere of comfort and contentment during your weekend getaway.
Plan Ahead for Meals and Snacks
Planning ahead for meals and snacks is essential to ensure that your stay at the cabin is comfortable. Knowing what food you’ll have on hand will help to eliminate any last-minute stress when it comes time to feed everyone in your party. Prepare simple, easy-to-make dishes such as sandwiches, salads, soups and omelets that can be quickly and easily put together from ingredients you already have on hand. Pack snacks like trail mix, granola bars and popcorn to keep everyone full until dinner time. And of course, don’t forget to bring along a few camping favorites like s’mores or hot dogs for a classic cabin experience.
Making your cabin comfortable and cozy for a weekend getaway is all about planning ahead. With the right amenities, you can have a wonderful time away from home in the lap of nature. Bring along enough blankets and pillows for everyone in your party, make sure bedding is clean and fresh, check that the cabin is structurally sound, bring some extra lighting sources, and pack a few creature comforts from home. And don’t forget to plan ahead for meals and snacks so that everyone is properly fed during your stay. With the right preparation, you can have the ultimate cabin experience.