12 Fun and Easy Ways To Spend Holidays Without Gadgets

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The notifications can wait. Social media updates won’t vanish. But real-life moments? Those are fleeting. Imagine waking up to the sound of birds instead of a buzzing phone or having a conversation where eye contact replaces screen glances. Holidays are the perfect time to disconnect from devices and reconnect with life itself. But what exactly can you do without screens? Plenty.

1. Glide Through History on a Punting Trip

If you think relaxation and exploration should go hand in hand, a punting trip might be just what you need. Picture this: a slow ride through a historic city, passing under ancient bridges, with nothing but the gentle sound of the water and the occasional storyteller sharing local lore.

Finding a traditional punting company like Rutherford’s can turn a simple boat ride into an experience that blends history, culture, and nature. Cambridge, for example, is famous for its scenic waterways, where punts glide past centuries-old colleges and breathtaking architecture. No distractions—just you, the river, and a peaceful escape from digital noise.

2. Get Lost in a Good Book

There’s a reason books have stood the test of time. A gripping novel or an insightful biography can transport you to another place without requiring screen time or a Wi-Fi connection. Visit a local bookstore, pick something that piques your curiosity, and let the pages pull you in. Bonus points if you take your book to a park, a cozy café, or even a beachside bench.

3. Try Your Hand at Cooking (No YouTube Tutorials!)

Cooking without digital assistance may sound intimidating, but that’s part of the fun. Dust off an old recipe book or ask a family member to teach you a traditional dish. The process itself—chopping, stirring, tasting—can be incredibly therapeutic. Plus, sharing a home-cooked meal with loved ones is one of the best parts of family holidays.

4. Rekindle the Art of Letter Writing

Texting is instant, but handwritten letters have soul. Choose a friend or family member, grab some quality stationery, and put your thoughts on paper. Whether it’s a heartfelt note, a nostalgic memory, or just an update about your holiday, writing letters slows things down and adds a personal touch that digital communication lacks.

5. Embrace the Outdoors

Nature doesn’t ask for passwords or charge subscription fees. Whether it’s hiking, cycling, or just strolling through a botanical garden, stepping outside has immense benefits. Fresh air, physical activity, and the simple joy of noticing details—like the way leaves rustle or the scent of blooming flowers—bring an irreplaceable sense of calm. For an extra challenge, go on a ‘silent walk,’ where you focus entirely on your surroundings without speaking or listening to music.

6. Learn a New Skill (The Old-School Way)

Before online tutorials, people learned through hands-on practice and guidance from others. Pick up an instrument, take a painting class, or start knitting. Learning without digital shortcuts makes the process more engaging and immersive. Plus, you might surprise yourself with how quickly you improve when you’re not pausing every few seconds to check a screen.

7. Plan a Game Night

Remember board games? Those dusty boxes in your closet hold hours of entertainment. Gather friends or family for an evening of classics like Scrabble, Monopoly, or chess. If you’re feeling creative, invent your own game with custom rules. The friendly competition and laughter will remind you why game nights never go out of style.

8. Explore Local Markets and Artisans

Skip the online shopping and explore a local market instead. Farmers’ markets, flea markets, and craft fairs offer unique finds while supporting small businesses. Whether you’re picking out fresh produce, handcrafted jewelry, or vintage treasures, there’s something special about discovering items in person rather than scrolling through endless product pages.

9. Start a Creative Project

Ditching screens frees up mental space for creativity. Try journaling, start a scrapbook, or even write a short story. If you enjoy hands-on work, woodworking, pottery, or DIY crafts can be incredibly satisfying. The best part? You’ll have a tangible result to show for your efforts—something you can hold, display, or gift to someone special.

10. Have Deep Conversations

With no mobile phones at the table, conversations take on a different depth. Ask thought-provoking questions, share personal stories, and really listen. Play conversation-starter games or revisit childhood memories with older relatives. You might be surprised at the wisdom and humor that surface when there’s no digital distraction pulling attention away.

11. Volunteer for a Cause

Giving back doesn’t require a smartphone. Spend time helping at a local shelter, community garden, or animal rescue. Not only will you make a difference, but you’ll also meet new people and experience firsthand the impact of small acts of kindness.

12. Take a Road Trip (With a Paper Map!)

Forget GPS for a day and navigate using an old-fashioned map. Whether it’s a drive through scenic countryside or a visit to a nearby town you’ve never explored, the thrill of the unknown makes the journey exciting. Pull over for spontaneous stops, try local diners, and embrace the adventure without relying on a screen.

Unplugging Brings Life into Focus

Spending family holidays without gadgets isn’t about deprivation—it’s about rediscovering experiences that screens often dull. When you disconnect from devices, you reconnect with moments that matter: the sound of laughter, the texture of a handwritten note, the taste of a meal made from scratch. So next time you find yourself reaching for your phone, ask yourself—what could you be experiencing instead?