I’ve only been back at work a few days, after two weeks away on my summer holiday.

I can’t tell you how happy it made me to come home to a doormat piled high with bills, a full email inbox, and a to-do list so long my pen ran out.

To put myself in a better mood, and to hopefully do the same for anyone else suffering from the post holiday blues, I’ve made a list of reasons to feel cheerful when a summer holiday comes to an end.

It’s time to plan your next holiday

The first thing I did when I got home was to start planning next year’s big holiday.

Well, I say the first thing. After two loads of washing, a weekly shop, unpacking, cooking, putting children to bed, washing up, and spending a quiet half-hour in a darkened room.

Daydreaming about destinations for next year’s caravan holiday is a great way to boost your mood, and there are no shortage of websites to provide inspiration (not least our own travel section and our Top 100 Sites Guide).

Book early, and you know exactly what you have to look forward to next year, plus there’s no danger on missing out on a favourite campsite or destination.

Don’t wait until next summer

The summer may be over, but there’s still a good couple of months before many campsites and touring parks close their doors at the end of the season.

One of the best things about caravanning are those impromptu, last-minute breaks. Check the weather, book your pitch, hitch up and go.

Campsites and tourist attractions will be quieter in the autumn, and if we get an Indian summer the weather could be better than it’s been for most of August.

For anyone who lives in or around London, the south coast or East Anglia are just a short tow away and ideal for a quick break.

Birmingham is within easy towing distance of the Cotswolds, Mancunians have the Lakes on their doorstep, and from Edinburgh or Glasgow the Trossachs are close enough for a weekend away in the caravan.

One of the great things about Great Britain is that wherever you live you’re never far from some spectacular scenery.

Without the planning, the long journey, and the expense of a big holiday, a short break can be just as enjoyable as a longer tour, but with far less hassle.

So while you plan your next long holiday, think about grabbing some more short tours before the end of the season.

Look forward to winter

If you’re a four-season caravanner there’s plenty to look forward to throughout the year.

Plenty of British campsites do stay open through the winter, and there’s really nothing better than waking up on a scenic pitch on a crisp, clear winter’s day.

And if you don’t mind a long tow (or ferry journey) you could always chase the sun to the south of France or Spain.

Be a practical caravanner

Readers often remind us that we’re Practical Caravan. For many caravanners, DIY improvements, additions and maintenance are some of the pleasures of caravan ownership.

It’s not too early to start researching this winter’s big project. From upgrading electrics from 7-pin to 13-pin, to switching to LED awning lights, or replacing a cracked window, there are plenty of suggestions on our advice pages.

So whether it’s daydreaming of more summer sun or upgrading your van, there’s no reason to be down when you return from your big summer holiday.

At least, that’s what I keep telling myself.