10 Planning Tips to Make Your Summer Vacation a Success
Family vacation time is here! It’s a time to connect with family and create memorable memories, but planning a summer vacation can be an exhausting task and involves several key steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Here are a few tips to guide you and take the stress out of planning a successful vacation.
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Decide on Your Destination
Think about where you want to go, somewhere close by where you can drive or a faraway place where you would have to fly.
Decide on what type of vacation you are looking for, something with adventure like ziplining, a relaxing resort by the beach, or a city tour like NYC or D.C. to see the historic monuments.
Research different locations and consider factors such as the weather in that area, what activities they offer, and any travel restrictions.
Set a Budget
Your research will tell you more about how much you’re probably going to spend on the activities, lodging, and food.
Estimate the costs of travel, accommodations, food, activities, souvenirs, and emergency funds.
Plan accordingly, and adjust your destination and plans based on your budget. Make sure your vacation isn’t going to be a setback on your financial goals.
Choose Dates
Check availability to ensure the dates work for everyone involved and check for any work or personal conflicts.
Book early, for I’ve learned popular destinations can fill up quickly, so book flights and accommodations as early as possible.
I usually start thinking about summer vacations at the end of October or November, just because the flight schedule is available for June and possibly July (it’s just when we like to go on vacation) but it also depends on whether we’re set on flying just to play around with options.
Whew that was a mouth full to say, but this hotel was really nice!
photo courtesy of website
Book Transportation
As previously stated I’ve booked flights way in advance. I usually check out different vacation packages with different airline companies to see what deals are out there.
However, I’ve also booked hotels separately from the flight as well.
Hotels.com allows you to view and compare hotel amenities and prices side by side to determine which hotel is best for your needs.
I’ve compared both, booking a package with a hotel and booking the hotel separately, and it just depends on the destination, your budget, and availability.
Consider different airlines, and check nearby airports for cheaper options. If driving, make sure your vehicle is in good condition.
Also if using trains or buses, check schedules, routes and prices in advance so you’re not blindsided.
Arrange Accommodation
Consider hotels, vacation rentals, hostels, or camping based on your preferences and budget.
Choose a location that is convenient for the activities you plan to do.
Also consider parking fees and if taking a rideshare would be more cost effective for a particular activity that’s on your itinerary.
Plan Activities
Research local attractions, tours, and activities. Try Yelp and Trip Advisor for recommendations. Some activities may require booking in advance, especially during peak season, so book any reservations early.
Prepare Travel Documents
Ensure passports are up to date and check visa requirements for your destination.
Even though travel insurance is not a requirement it is advised, you just never know what may happen either before your trip or when you get there and you have to leave early. Consider TSA Precheck to ensure a smoother screening process.
Pack Smart
Write out an itinerary of what you’re doing each day and pack according to your day of events.
Don’t forget to make a list of essentials based on your destination (e.g. beach essentials, walking shoes, clear bag).
Travel light, try to pack only what you need to avoid extra baggage fees and hassles.
This is definitely a hard task for me, no matter how much I try, but when I discovered compression packing cubes, it was definitely a game changer, especially when packing for the entire family!
Also check the weather of the destination you’re going to and pack accordingly.
Plan for Emergencies
Provide emergency contacts the hotel name and number and make sure you find the local embassy/consulate information where you’re going.
Check if vaccinations are needed and pack a basic first-aid kit, that includes headache, heartburn or motion sickness medicine.
Finalize and Confirm
Double-check all reservations and bookings a week before departure.
Print/Save Documents have copies of your itinerary, tickets, and reservation confirmations.
Conclusion
Vacation time is family time. A time to connect, bond and create great memories.
A great vacation takes time to plan and prepare.
Follow your plans but also leave room for spontaneous activities and relaxation time.
Get the whole family involved in the process. Stay safe and be aware of your surroundings.
By following these steps, you can ensure a well-organized and enjoyable summer vacation. Enjoy your trip!
