How to Plan The Perfect Trip

One thing I will never stop doing until the day I die is traveling. Traveling and going on vacation, to me, are the only things in the world worth doing over and over and over again. There’s way too many places on this earth to explore. And as long as my body is up for it, I’ll be doing it. Taking trips is an amazing way to take time off and refresh your mind, regardless of where you choose to go. I believe travel connects us with other cultures, with nature and with each other in ways we never knew possible.

Planning a trip, as exciting as it is, can also be a daunting and overwhelming task, especially when it’s your first time.

There’s so many factors that go into it including deciding where to go, figuring out transportation, booking accommodations, securing excursions and reservations, getting a visa, etc. While there are so many elements to planning a trip, following a practical guide on how to plan the perfect trip and have fun while doing it, is key.

While planning a trip can be a ton of fun, sometimes it’s easier to outsource things to get us time back and get things done the right way. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with this. And the great thing is there are so many qualified travel agents that can help you plan your dream trip. I have a personal relationship with a fabulous trusted luxury travel advisor who can help you plan your trip. Whether you just want help with the hotel booking or are looking for a fully-customized travel itinerary.

The best part is you will get access to all the best hotels and packages, some coming with VIP perks and upgrades at no extra cost to you. This can include things like complimentary breakfast (the good kind, not bananas and coffee. I’m talking eggs Benedict and pancakes, etc.), room upgrades, hotel credit, champagne and welcome amenities, early check in & late check out and more. Using a travel advisor is a wise idea if you want to get the best deals for your trip and be treated like royalty in the process. Click here to request your booking today!

How to Plan The Perfect Trip

Step 1

Decide where to go. First and foremost, where are we going?! Domestic? International? The beach? The city? The mountains? The best way to decide where to go is dependent on your preferences, hobbies, travel-style, if you’re going with others or if you’re going solo. Consider all the things that you value most when traveling. And where you see yourself having the best time.

Here are a few questions you can ask yourself:

How far away do I want to go?
Will I need to take a car or plane to get there?
Do I prefer warmer climates or colder climates?
Do I want an adventure or relaxation or a combo of both?
Do I want to stay in one area the whole time or hop around?
Do I want my accommodations to be close to attractions?

Making a list of questions and answering them will help you determine where to take your trip. If you need some inspiration, feel free to check out my travel guides to various destinations.

Step 2

Come up with a budget. Depending on how far it is, how many days you want to stay, what you’ll be doing when you’re there and if you’ll be strict or free with your spending, will all determine what your budget looks like. You want to plan a trip that is actually doable, achievable and within your means. So you don’t have to stress about paying for something you simply cannot afford. Once you come to terms with this you can be realistic and save money in the meantime. It also helps if you’re flexible with your dates because prices can significantly change day to day and month to month.

Step 3

Decide when to go. Every destination has peak and off peak seasons. And usually different weather, events and restrictions associated throughout the year. It’s important to do your research to see which month or season is most ideal for you. Whether it is cost-dependent, weather-dependent or event-specific-dependent. While going during off-season may not be the most ideal for certain destinations, it’s an excellent option when your focus is to save money.

Step 4

Consider options for paying for the trip. Did you know you can actually plan to travel for free? I’m not kidding. If you’re looking to take a trip and want to pay for it at a fraction of the cost or completely for free, then keep reading. If you’re responsible and able to pay off credit card bills month to month, then you may want to consider signing up for a travel credit card. This allows you to build up travel points that allow you to make flight, hotel and transportation purchases. It’s one of my favorite ways to travel. And has saved me thousands of dollars in travel expenses, just by making everyday normal purchases. If you’re interested in learning more about using credit card points to travel, check out my full guide here.

Step 5

Research destination requirements. This is very important. With the pandemic changing times and the way we travel, it is a good idea to know what is required of you before visiting a destination, especially if you are going abroad. Every state and country in the world differs on entry, mask-wearing, vaccine-requirements, travel requirements, travel insurance, visas, etc. It’s wise to do some deep research on the state or country you plan to visit, starting with the CDC guidelines.

Step 6

Book your flight. Once you’ve determined where you’re going, when you’re going, what your budget is, and what the travel requirements are, you’re free to book your flight. The common advice for booking and finding cheap flights includes searching on Tuesday and Wednesdays through your browser in incognito mode. Scanning flights across the internet using platforms like SkyScanner and Google Flights. As well as using your travel credit card to book them and or/redeem points.

Step 7

Book your accommodations. After your roundtrip flight is ready to go, it’s time to book your accommodations whether it be an Airbnb or hotel. If you’re a long-time follower of mine, you know I always encourage staying at hotels for many reasons. They are predictable, more high-end and give you way more options, flexibility and amenities. Doing a simple Google search can help you compare hotel pricing. But the truth is, you won’t get the best pricing and offers possible unless you book through a trusted travel advisor. I have a direct relationship with a fabulous luxury travel advisor who can help you snag the best deal. And in some cases, upgrade your stay. It’s totally worth it.

Step 8

Plan your activities and make reservations. Whether you plan to go jet-skiing, snorkeling, hiking, zip-lining, shopping through town or be taken on a guided tour, you’ll want to price those out and book them ahead of time as these types of excursions typically fill up quickly. Any restaurants you want to visit, especially if you’re staying at a resort, should be booked in advance to avoid missing out on amazing dinner experiences.

Step 9

Draft up an itinerary. Something I do every time I plan a trip or hotel stay, is to write up an itinerary broken down by each day to at least have an idea of what’s happening. This is especially helpful if you are packing out your trip. But even helpful for laid-back trips just to put everything into perspective. It helps you stay organized and on-track for everything you’re planning to do. Gives you peace of mind and also gets you excited for what’s to come!

Step 10

Create a packing list. Another fun last step once everything is booked, is to put together a packing list of things you’ll need for your trip. So you’ll know if you have everything or have to make a few purchases. I personally cannot stand when I leave things I need at home. So I find making a list and starting to pack even 1-2 weeks before the trip is so helpful because I never forget anything. I find when I pack at the last minute, I forget the most random things and have to end up buying something on the trip (which I didn’t budget for.) Do yourself a favor and keep your suitcase open in your room, adding things to it over time. It makes the whole process easier and more intentional.