Everything I needed for an off-grid weekend of relaxation

In December, we'd officially reached that point of the year where it feels like we're crawling towards Christmas. Everyone was on their last legs, feeling overloaded and burnt out, and generally in need of some rest.

And so, it was a great time for my brain to use the last of its power to remember I had an Unyoked gift voucher to use. I have been dying to do one of those tiny home holidays for years. Since I recently gave myself a jaw-clenching-induced headache amidst moving house aggro, I thought, ‘My God, get me to one of these, immediately.’

The cabins, nestled in the woods, scream respite and romance – or bromance in my case. My friend didn't take much convincing to come with me, and so we went off on a little adventure in search of peace, quiet, and doing very little.

If you're feeling a burning desire to switch off and reconnect with nature, these are all the things I'd encourage taking with you wherever you go.

NOTE: Prices are accurate at the time of publishing.

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

Was $299, now $249

I'm always scrounging for more time to read my books or use my Kindle, and this staycation gave me nothing but time. I put my feet up and got through an entire book over the weekend! Thrilled.

North Face Base Camp Duffel - Small

$250 | The North Face

I've had my North Face Base Camp Duffel for five years now, and I find it a trusty weekender bag. I take it everywhere: trips away, birthday weekends, festivals, camping, you name it. Its design means it can be used as a backpack (with padded handles) and a duffel bag in one. It's water-resistant and durable, and has features like compression straps, internal mesh pockets, and an ID window. You can rely on it to get you through rain, wind, and shine.

Bellroy Lite Cooler Caddy 10L

$99 | Bellroy

The cabin was equipped with a mini-fridge, so we didn't have to solely rely on an esky to keep our food and drink (read: fancy cheese we can't afford) cold. It fits six bottles standing upright, so a cooler caddy was an easy way of transporting a few bits without it taking up too much room. It also means you can take it on the go if you go out for a hike or a beach day!

Factorie Mega Baggy Jort

$59.95 | Factorie

As someone who is British, the longer I stay in Australia, the longer my jorts seem to get. And honestly, I'm just mad I hadn't hopped on the bandwagon sooner. For a weekend in the bush, simplicity and comfort are key. I live in this pair from Factorie as they deliver on all fronts.

Outdoorish Outdoor Beauty Balm

$34 | Outdoorish

Constantly spraying your skin with anti-bug spray can be a sticky business. This product is a great plant-based, mess-free essential for when you're out and about in nature. Be free of pesky critters and smell delightfully of lemon myrtle, sandalwood, catnip, and bergamot instead.

Grinders Espresso Coffee Beans

$29 | Amazon

There was something deeply relaxing about having to grind your own coffee beans in the cabin. I assume it's intentionally designed to encourage visitors to slow down and take their time as you move through the day. Instead of rushing around at the local coffee shop, making your own from scratch was a great way to unwind.

If your accommodation doesn't have a bean grinder, you'll want to make sure to buy ground coffee. While slowing down is the aim, you probably don't want to be hand-grinding beans.

Bialetti Moka Express Stovetop Espresso Maker

$85.40 | Amazon

I confess I did have to text my dad to confirm I was making a coffee correctly. Am I completely useless? Maybe. Anyway, I got there eventually, and I have been well and truly converted to the stovetop life.

Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 4 Portable Bluetooth Speaker

When was the last time you just sat back and relaxed, listening to your favourite playlist distraction-free? Not sure? Maybe this is your sign to do just that.

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