Ask HN: Tricks to disconnect from work while on vacation

Acknowledge that you have a want to check things, and set aside a dedicated time to do so. That way you aren't haphazardly checking things while you are free, and you can limit the effect work has on your vacation. Worse than working on vacation is feeling bad about working on vacation.

Establish a ritual that acts as a border between work activity and home/play activity. It can be simple or complex, depending on how much it takes to convince your brain you've made the transition. Practice the ritual religiously (it could even be a religious ritual!) You will likely find your ritual makes the transition between states of mind easier over time. I don't know why it works, but it often does. For my father taking a nap as soon as he got home from work was what helped him. I like to alter room lighting across the house as a reminder I'm in a different mode. A change of clothing can help also. Whatever works on a daily basis seems likely to work when on holiday also.