Planning a vacation can be stressful, tedious, and frustrating. This is especially true if you are trying to coordinate the itinerary with multiple people and/or if you are traveling to a destination you have never been to before. Planning a vacation should not be exhausting and – good news – it doesn’t have to be difficult. All you need to do is follow this step by step guide.
You are going to want to take some time to read through this before you take the next step in your vacation planning.
Decide Where You Want to Go
Before you can even begin the planning process, you need to know where you want to go. Take into consideration who is traveling, what time of year you are traveling, and what it is you are looking to get out of your vacation (adventure, explore history, rejuvenation, etc.). Then, take time to research the best vacation destinations during that time of year.
Calculate Your Costs
It doesn’t matter if money is no object for you or if you have scraped change together for the last 365 days to be able to enjoy a vacation – you will need to calculate your costs. This will give you an idea of how much your trip is going to cost and how to budget your vacation funds.
Of course, when calculating your costs, you are likely to remember your travel costs and the costs of your accommodations. But, you don’t want to forget things such as spending money for dining, sightseeing, souvenirs, etc. These aren’t all necessary items, but they will definitely make your vacation a bit more enjoyable.
Book Your Travel
How will you reach your destination?
Your destination will inform you of your travel requirements. For example, if you’re traveling overseas, you will certainly need to book a flight. If you are able to drive to your destination, you will need to consider the benefits of taking your own vehicle and renting a vehicle.
Activities
So, now that you know how you are getting to your chosen destination and you know where you will be staying while you are there, it is time to decide what you will do while you are there. It comes in handy to review your destination and see all it has to offer – for tourists and for locals.
Make a list. Include the places that spark your interest – rating them from “must see,” to “if time allows.” You may or may not get to see everything on your list. It is important that you remind yourself of this. After all, trying to plan too much into your vacation can cause a lot of unwanted stress. Keep it simple. Keep it realistic.
Packing
Some people can go a couple of weeks with only the items and clothes that fit in a backpack. Others require at least 2 full-size suitcases for a weekend trip.
To cut down on the stress and aggravation that can come with traveling, pack light. Make a list of all the travel essentials you need to take and stick to the list. Keep in mind that you are going to enjoy yourself – not impress others. Also, know that doing laundry is a possibility almost everywhere you go. Pack two pairs of shoes: one for dressing up, one for adventures. Pack a couple of outfits – especially those that can be mix-matched. Take travel-sized essentials, and leave all the extras at home.
Remember, the more you pack, the more you have to worry about, and the more you have to carry. By packing light, you are reducing your stress and allowing extra room to bring back souvenirs!
Travel the Easy Way
Planning a vacation can be overwhelming when you make arrangements through multiple services.
This can make the process stressful, which can negatively impact your trip. For this reason, we recommend you explore the benefits of planning your vacation with Diamond Resorts. While you may be able to piece together your vacation using multiple services, Diamond Resorts makes it easy and relaxing.
You will find some of the most luxurious destinations in the world, you will enjoy a wide range of all-inclusive packages.
Taking a vacation is good for the mind, body, and soul, and we strive to make it as easy as possible for you.
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Before You Go
Now that you have everything in order, there are a few things that you must do before you head out on your vacation.
- Always make sure someone knows where you are traveling to and the dates you will be gone. Make sure this is a trusted individual. Leave a copy of your itinerary and passport with this person.
- If traveling abroad, keep a copy of your passport and itinerary on you at all times. Should you become the victim of theft or simply lose your passport, having a copy will make things quite a bit easier for you.
- Research your destination. Know the places to go and the areas to avoid. Familiarize yourself with the main roads and tourist points of the city.
- Let your bank and credit card companies know that you will be traveling. This will cut down on the likelihood that the fraud department will place a hold on your cards due to them being used outside of your home location.
- Stay organized. The more you research, the more notes you will likely have. Keep everything organized and, of course, don’t forget to take it with you!
Traveling doesn’t have to be a chore. In fact, vacations are supposed to be relaxing and enjoyable – a break from the stressful day-to-day life. Follow these steps and make it awesome!
