How To Plan Your Next Trip:The Easy Way

1. BEFORE PLANNING YOUR TRIP.

First, choose where you want to go. Create a bucket list of the places you want to visit and prioritize them. Think about the place you want to travel to, the duration of your trip, and your budget.

Consider the type of experience you want. Do you prefer cruising, all-inclusive resorts, or flying to new destinations? If you decide on a cruise, choose a destination that aligns  with your interests. Decide if you want a relaxing resort vacation or an adventurous trip exploring new places.

Also, consider your budget for your hotel, activities, and meals. Answering these questions will help you plan and budget for your trip.

2. TAKE TIME TO PLAN YOUR NEXT TRIP- MAKE A LIST.

If we are planning a trip too many weeks in advance, I will change a few more things and that’s not good practice.

Speaking of planning, make sure your travel plans are within your budget range as part of your plans.

Some travelers will have to do it if they want to make the most of it.

*I use a Planner that I design, with all the information I need for budgeting.

*I write on my travel planner every place I want to visit, the list is growing all the time.

*Maybe revisit your favorite destinations.

*Maybe, a spur-of-the-moment trip to take advantage of good deals.

**Planning doesn’t have to be difficult. 

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**PICK A DESTINATION

Take a look at your bucket list and decide which destination you want to go to first. Begin by writing down all the places you would love to visit. If your list is too long, prioritize them.

Once you have chosen your destination, think about the time of year you plan to travel. If you prefer to travel when there are more people, then the high season might be a good choice for you. Just keep in mind that it will be more expensive and crowded during this time. Flights and hotels will be pricier and may be less available.

On the other hand, if you prefer to travel when there are fewer people and the prices are cheaper, then traveling during the off-season might be a better option for you. The flights and hotels will be more affordable and less crowded, providing a more relaxing and enjoyable travel experience.

3. MAP YOUR ROUTE

Get out your map and make sure you plan the most efficient route. I print a google map of the place I want to go and highlight everything you can see around the hotel and where you can walk. You don’t want to waste time doubling back on yourself. Map out also a day trip by train.

4. TIMING IS EVERYTHING

Don’t forget to look up the weather report and pick your travel dates accordingly. Pay attention to things like monsoon season and cold winters and bear in mind that warm summer weather means lots of crowds.

Do some research on when things are open, too. 

Some places in Europe are not open on Sundays, only to restaurants and churches. I found out the last time we went on vacation.

6. GET YOUR SHOTS

Get all your shots, before your trip. A travel doctor or Pharmacist will tell you what you need depending on the location of your trip. 

6. GET ORGANIZED. 

Ensure that you take pictures of all your important documents such as your passport, visa, credit cards, hotel booking, flight details, and car rental information before leaving. On our previous trip to China, we found it helpful to show the taxi driver the address of the hotel through pictures on our phone. Additionally, I always carry a book with all other necessary information in case there is no Wi-Fi available.

7. SET YOUR BUDGET

Setting a budget for your trip becomes much easier once you have decided on the details of your journey, including the destination and activities you plan to undertake. Remember to account for all aspects of your trip, such as flights, car rentals, taxis, accommodation, activities, transportation and entertainment, food, travel insurance, and gratuities, as well as any other expenses.

When choosing between first-class or economy flights, keep in mind that it can make a significant difference in your budget. Therefore, it is essential to consider your finances before making such a decision.

Therefore, it is crucial to check your numbers before making any bookings.

If you are planning a cruise or an all-inclusive trip, almost everything is free. You may only incur additional expenses such as offshore purchases of souvenirs or tips for the bartender.

Accommodation and meals are included,  you can save money. Sometimes, you may have to pay gratuities, which are typically automatically charged on the first day of your cruise. The set rate varies depending on the cruise line and the recommended tipping value for staff.

We recommend giving yourself a daily budget of $35.00 for any additional expenses such as coffee, pastry, or souvenirs while stopping at different ports.

8. BOOK YOUR FLIGHT

Once I’ve determined my destination I look for the prices of my flight, car rental, and hotel. Usually, in the middle of the week seats are cheaper for your airline tickets. Check pricing on multiple airline websites.

9. BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATIONS

When it comes to booking accommodations, it’s important to consider the type of environment you prefer. Do you like high-end hotels, moderate hotels, or private apartments/condos? It’s also worth doing your research, as hotels can be cheaper during the week. 

We’ve tried all types of accommodations. The private apartment we stayed in was very nice, but we found it inconvenient to have to cook and clean ourselves. Additionally, we had to leave money for the cleaning crew. As for the expensive hotel, we were not impressed. There was no WiFi in the room and only in the lobby. Plus, there was no free breakfast.

Personally, I believe that cost is one of the most important factors when choosing where to stay. Staying within a budget is crucial for being able to travel more in the future. I always try to find a comfortable and budget-friendly option in every destination. It may not be a five-star hotel, but as long as it’s clean and has free breakfast, I’m happy.

10. BUY TRAVEL INSURANCE

I recommended that you purchase travel insurance for any of your trips. It will protect you against illness, accidents, emergencies, and even death. Most insurance carriers will include a pre-existing condition clause in the coverage depending on your age.

DON’T FORGET, INSURANCE WILL NOT PAY IF YOU CHANGE YOUR MEDICATIONS BEFORE LEAVING ON YOUR TRIP. 

Any change in medication can be considered a change in treatment. It is important to notify your insurance of all medication changes, no matter what kind it is. 

11. PLAN YOUR DAY/ACTIVITIES

Once you have booked your destination, flights, accommodations, and/or cruise it’s time to plan your activities and sightseeing. Take a moment to review and create an itinerary. Personally, I like to research the places I’ll be visiting beforehand to ensure that I don’t miss anything.

While exploring, I enjoy shopping in interesting areas. 

When planning excursions on a cruise, I consider all the ports we’ll be stopping at and choose where to go and what to do. Keep in mind that the activities and excursions will vary depending on the type of vacation you’re planning. 

Regardless, it’s crucial to spend time figuring out your plans as part of the planning process to make the most of your trip.

12. YES, WHAT TO PACK

First, look online at what the weather will be like where you are going, it will help with what to pack.

Are you going to the beach, hiking, or walking the whole day!!

For some cruises, you might need formal wear!!

If my trip is longer than usual I always pack a small amount of laundry detergent, just in case. Don’t forget good shoes for walking.