8 Steps to Planning a Dream Vacation

In my last blog post I interviewed a travel agent and discussed the options you would have if you decided to hire one. On the other hand, if you want to plan the vacation yourself, here are a few steps into planning a successful vacation. It can be a stressful process, but just breathe and remember what
the end result will be!

1. Brainstorm vacation ideas

• Choose the top places you'd like to go
• Are you going to fly or drive (that may rule out a few options)
• Include your dream destinations
• Make sure to include everyone that is going in this step

2. Set a Budget

• If a destination is out of your budget, cross it off of your list
• Make sure you include every detail in your budget: transportation, food, clothes, activity costs, and souvenirs

3. Research and look for deals 

• There are many sites out there that will help you with this step (TripAdvisor, Expedia, Kayak)
• Look at reviews of different places to make sure others like it
• Make sure to check different times and dates to find the best deals  

4. Create your options 

• Figure out the dates and times
• Narrow is down to 3 dates and times 
• If you are going with a big group, vote on it 

5. Book your trip! 

• Decide on hotel accommodations
• Flights
• Transportation

6. Plan activities to do while you are there

• Let's be honest, we all want to just relax the whole time we are on vacation, so plan and book your activities you want to do NOW!

7. Plan a potential itinerary

•  You need a possible plan, something to go by
• This is not a strict plan at all, just something to give your time away a little structure
• I would recommend the website Trip it 
• It is fast, easy, and you always have it on the go

8. Pack and enjoy your vacation!

• Make sure you pack a couple days in advance so you don't forget anything
• Pack for all types of weather

•  Print this checklist from Smarter Travel so you know you have everything! 

This is your vacation! Have a great time, it will be one that you will never forget.