There is no right or wrong way to arrive at a cabin, but hopefully, this mini checklist can keep you from getting overwhelmed while you’re supposed to be relaxing. For questions or concerns regarding your specific cabin rental, reach out to Nevaeh Cabin Rentals today!
It’s easy to think of how to depart the cabin, and typically, however you find it is how you leave it. But many feel overwhelmed when they think of what to do when they arrive. The car needs unpacking, the kids are sick of being in the car, and, more than likely, there’s a mad dash to the bathroom. While all of these are fair, we’ve compiled a list of things to do right when you get to your cabin. This will help eliminate some of that stress and get your vacation started on the right foot.
It’s essential to note that every cabin’s setup is semi-different. Some cabins offer a few of the following, and others might have all. Start with what’s most accessible and work your way through. This isn’t a chore list by any means, but it may assist in settling in without feeling anxious about where to begin. As your trunk full of belongings stares you down, consider the following measures when you’re unpacking.
Check the Refrigerator
If the cabin sees visitors regularly, chances are the fridge is already on. But it’s a good thing to check right away, as you will store various items in it. Sometimes, they are shut off in-between visits to save on electricity.
Ensure the fridge plug is in a safe outlet tucked away from children, and give it some time to cool down. It can take up to 24 hours to begin an automatic on/off cycle, but you may still place your cold items in there as it begins to cool off.
Turn On Heating or Cooling
More than likely, the dad in the group is already thinking about the room’s temperature. Regardless of the season, set the thermostat to match a comfortable indoor temp and leave it be. This can also take a few hours to work adequately before you feel the effects.
If it’s warm outdoors, you can consider opening a window for airflow while you’re bringing things in. And for winter months, turn the heat on and check for a fireplace or stove. In the meantime, leave your jackets on until it’s ready. It’s important not to start the fire immediately, as this can cause a potential hazard as you’re shuffling in and out while unpacking the car.
Check Pest Traps
Something to consider before you unpack too much is the pest traps. These are in place as cabins are old and in the wilderness. You want to examine these before the kids run in and potentially find out. You don’t want them playing with a trapped mouse or bugs, as this can be dangerous to their well-being.
Should you find anything in the traps, be sure to dispose of them promptly and inform the office you found some and disposed of them. This can help them place new ones when you depart. It’s also not uncommon to find droppings near traps or behind large furniture. Sweep them up so that nobody gets hold of them.
Bring In Your Belongings
These initial steps should move relatively quickly and not take up much of your time. You could assign one adult to the initial cabin prep and another to bring your belongings indoors to save time. Once your things are inside, consider placing them where they make the most sense. Things like food in the kitchen area, personal items on the beds that correspond to the guest, and any extra activities in the common spaces can help keep organized.
It’s not critical to unpack every bag right away. Simply placing them where they will go and grazing through the cabin as things begin to reach desired temperatures is sufficient.
If Applicable, Start a Fire
This specific item will only apply in colder months and a safe fire location. Many vacation cabins in Georgia will offer a cozy place to have a fire, whether in the evenings outside or in the cabin itself. After you turn on the heat and finish bringing things indoors, starting a fire is a great way to sit and unwind as you anticipate the next move.
Remember to open the chimney damper or the back door on the wood-burning stove. This can ensure safety. Of course, there is no need for fire in the warm months, so this is a step you can skip altogether.
Unpack Your Supplies
One of the best things to do right when you get to your cabin is to put away all the food and beverage items you brought with you. Stowing any kitchen utensils you brought can keep them out of the way as if you were at home. Also, consider putting away any room temperature foods so that the counters and tabletops are free of clutter. While on vacation, the last thing you need is clutter staring you down.
Cold Foods
In addition to stowing your dry goods, utensils, and supplies, set all cold food and drinks in the fridge. The fridge will continue to cool down as time goes on, so it’s never a bad idea to go ahead and place these things in there.
Things like breakfast essentials, juice, and milk should all remain cold. And if you brought any frozen items like ice packs for coolers, you can place these in the freezer until you need them again. It’s also a good idea to have these if anyone suffers an injury from an activity.
Settle In
Once everything is in the cabin and the temperature is starting to control, it’s an excellent time to settle in and begin to get comfortable. Many are okay living out of their suitcases for the time being, but some prefer putting things away in closets and drawers. Feel free to do what is most comfortable for you.
Sometimes, thoroughly unpacking your belongings can save you time and stress if you’re in a hurry in between plans. Another thing to consider is that by unpacking and getting settled early in the trip, you’re not holding up the group later when it’s time to leave for an activity.
