It’s time to think about your next vacation… the weather is changing and study after study shows that most people are ready to get away. But whether you’re planning a week-long trip or a mini-vacation, you’re bound to have some questions.
You may be wondering, “Where will I go?” “How long will it take?” “Will I have enough time to see everything?” “What do I need to pack?” and “Can I afford it?”
Well, we’ve got some good news for you. In order to help you save money and make the most of your travels, we’ve put together a list of key tips for planning your next vacation.
Do your research before you go
The first step to planning your vacation is to do your research. Check out the city you’re visiting, as well as nearby destinations, for activities and attractions that are fun for the whole family. Remember to pack a variety of activities, especially ones that appeal to children.
Don’t forget to look into nearby family-friendly hotels and resorts, too. If you want to save some money on accommodations and still get a great vacation, consider a hotel chain with family-friendly options.
There are also plenty of online destination directories and travel blogs that can help you plan your vacation. You can also use apps like Google Maps, TripAdvisor, or Yelp to research the best nearby attractions and things to do.
Pack light
If you’re like many vacationers, you’re probably going to be traveling with friends or family. You’ll want to pack lightly in order to avoid extra fees and overweight baggage fees. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Bring clothes for everyone, as well as clothes for each day of your trip.
- Have bathing suits for everyone.
- Bring plenty of snacks, such as fruit, cheese, nuts, and cookies.
- Bring a small cooler for your drinks and snacks.
- Bring a small backpack for your day-trip essentials.
If you’re traveling with kids, make sure to pack plenty of snacks, drinks, and activities for them. You want to make sure they have something to keep them busy on your travels. Pack light on electronics like smartphones and tablets. Instead, bring an entertainment pack of cards, board games, and books for date night.
Make a game plan
Once you’ve done your research, it’s time to put together your game plan. Start by mapping out your trip. Write down the dates you’ll be traveling and where you’ll be staying.
Next, you’ll need to figure out how long you’ll be gone. If you’re headed to a popular tourist destination, it’s best to book a room at a hotel with a pool or gym. You can also ask your hotel if you can store your bags in the hotel garage while you’re gone.
If you’ll be hiking, biking, or spending a lot of time exploring, you may want to invest in a rental car. Speak with a travel agent or consider hiring a private driver if you won’t be able to drive for a few days.
Pack for the weather
Weather can definitely throw a wrench into your vacation plans, especially if you’re heading to a city with a tropical climate. Before you go, make sure to pack for the weather. That way, you’ll be prepared if the weather turns.
When packing for the weather, keep your clothing versatile. That way, you can wear the same outfit to different destinations and enjoy the warm weather while you’re there.
You may also want to bring an extra sweater or pair of gloves. Many people also bring a puffer coat. This is especially useful at night time when it gets cooler.
Explore for an extra day
If you’ve got a little extra vacation time, you may want to take it. Many destinations offer free activities and attractions that you can enjoy while you’re there.
If you have a little extra time and aren’t sure what to do, you may also want to consider signing up for a city tour. These are offered by most hotels and vary in length, price, and what you get to see.
You may also want to consider taking a day trip from your destination. For example, if you’re visiting New York City, consider heading to Niagara Falls. You can even take a daytrip from Niagara Falls!
Travel with a friend
If you’ll be traveling to a destination with airfare, consider traveling with a friend. Not only will this be a more affordable option, but you’ll also have someone to keep you company on your travels.
Not sure how to pick a travel buddy? Ask around at work or family gatherings. You may even want to look into a “road trip” with your friends. Weigh the costs of renting a car and the gas you’ll use. You may be surprised to find that traveling with a friend is less expensive than you think.
Final thoughts
Now that you’ve got your game plan in place, it’s time to hit the road. Pack your bags, hop in the car, and head out for your next adventure!
Whether you’re traveling for work or for fun, you’re sure to have a blast on your next vacation. To help you get started, we’ve got a list of seven tips for planning your next vacation.
