Imagine being on your dream vacation; the feeling of surrender to freedom. It sounds like perfection, until you start thinking of the tedious process it takes to pull together. It can be exhausting to consider the steps without having the right plan-of-action. Make your hard-earned money go further, and your planning process smoother with a few simple steps:
1.) Build a budget:
First, consider a reasonable budget and spending plan. Study your spending habits with your current income; decide how much you’d need to allocate towards the trip each week. Keep in mind, adding frugality to your lifestyle will speed up the saving process exponentially. You’ll need to save both for the trip and spending money, separately. My friend once told me: if you don’t have at least $500 to travel around with, then you should put plans on hold to save. You don’t want to get stuck in an uncomfortable situation. This step is crucial for funding flights, hotels, and any major excursions. It may take you days, weeks or even months for the right budget. Keep in mind: the more money you have saved, the more fun you can have!
2.) Pick a destination:
Do you want to go somewhere warm surrounded by endless beach; or would you rather check out some history in one of the oldest cities in the world? The choice is yours to make and there is no wrong answer. You don’t need to go across the globe to get your travel fix.
3.) Find the right time:
Start by finding out how many days you can take off work. I like to plan my next vacation soon after my most recent trip; I’m still motivated and have the energy to do it. It is best to give yourself time to avoid stress, added expenses and to save the money you’ll need. If you have kids or pets, consider booking a sitter early. Keep in mind that the further out you plan, the better deals you’ll get!
4.) Research:
It’s important not to rush this process. Rushing can result in ending up in Nepal on an off season in 125-degree weather. Make sure you know what the best months to visit. Explore the idea of checking out different cities and towns you’d like to visit. It’s also important to know exactly where you’re going to study cultural differences. Make sure sources are credible, read many reviews, discover incredible local secrets and put your safety first at all times.
5.) Ticket Purchasing:
3 quick tips for buying plane tickets:
- Browse sites on private browsing or incognito mode. The sites you’re looking at tracks how often you look and actually increases the price over time.
- The best deals actually come when most people are sleeping. If you find yourself up at 2-5 am, check those sites and check out the drastic drops (continue on private browsing)
- Lastly, early week days (Monday through Wednesday) are usually the best days to fly or travel because they are cheaper, and less people fly during the week. So, if you have the availability, Monday to Monday is your number one best option.
6.) Booking the Hotel:
Make sure that you take a look at a map of where you are going; you need to figure out the distance between the airport, the hotel, and the places you want to go. You’re going to be tired after walking everywhere and don’t want to spend too much money on cabs. It’s also important to research the area you are checking out. To get in all of your activities: check out the websites of local restaurants to find out what time everything starts closing down for the night.
- Also make sure to peak at the reviews of hotels you are viewing. Don’t pick something because of the price; quality over quantity. It’s better to spend a little more of your budget as opposed to feeling unsafe or like you’re going to get bedbugs.
7.) Plan Your Activities:
This part will fluctuate, depending on what kind of trip you are taking. If you’re sharing the experience with others: sit down and find out what everyone is looking forward to and dreading. If you’re traveling alone, enjoy the privileged of choosing everything you want to do.
8.) Make a Checklist:
Write out a list of everything you will want at least a week beforehand. If you wait to pack, you will indubitably forget something. It’s always good to note the things that would be frustrating without. Phone charger and converter if necessary, medications, toothbrush etc.
9.) Pack Light:
There is nothing worse than returning from your trip with nothing because you ran out of room. Try to pack your suitcase halfway; if you are going to a place that is cheap, you can buy new clothes, new souvenirs or gifts for others. Even if it isn’t cheap, it is likely there will be things you’ll want.
10.) Avoid Stress and enjoy your Hard Work:
You’ve finally reached the day of your trip; Congrats! Make sure to get a good night’s rest (unless you have a red eye, you don’t want to miss it!) Get to the airport three hours early for domestic flights and at least four hours early for international. It’s always good to bring a carry on, (like a bookbag) to store snacks and entertainment for the flight. Keep in mind: if you bring water, you will be forced to dispose of it at security. At last, you are on your way to a well deserved vacation. Turn your phone off, and enjoy it!