Big brain moment.
Block off your calendar for the day you return, that way you're back a day early and nobody can book your calendar, and you have some room to breathe before getting hammered with tasks.
Coworker did this today, and honestly I am forever now doing this.
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@jordicusmaximus yes, been doing this for years. It works wonders, future you will thank past you for booking 'catch up' time.