Planning tips for new travelers
If you’re new to planning vacations, or if you’re considering a type of trip you’ve never done before, it’s wise to take a moment and think through what you envision. You might be excited to try adventure travel with daring activities, or maybe a relaxing beach vacation is just what you need. These planning tips and handy pre-travel checklist can help you anticipate needs and to-dos for your dream vacation.
Step 1: Choose and research your destination
Once you have a sense of whether you want to create a bustling itinerary or to simply unwind, it’s time to start doing some homework. Choose a destination, list all activities you want to do and start setting a budget for your plans.
Step 3: Plan out your itinerary
Research tourist hotspots, restaurants, activities and must-see recommendations from travel blogs. Allow extra travel time between destinations so you can take advantage of spontaneous discoveries, plus have breathing room in case of delays.
Step 2: Book transportation and accommodations
Consider whether you want to fly, train or drive to and between destinations. Decide between a hotel or short-term rental as your home base on the go. Make your reservations as early as possible to save money and get your ideal dates and times.
Step 4: Take a breath and enjoy your trip
Having all the details thought out ahead of time lets you make the most of your trip. However, be sure to create moments to connect with your travel companions and leave some time to simply enjoy the moment. A vacation should be relaxing afterall.
A travel preparation checklist for now, so you can relax later
Ready to get started? Take a peek at this curated travel preparation checklist to organize your thoughts and prepare for your trip, so that you can free up time on your travels to connect with local people and check out every experience that catches your eye.
1. Research destination and transportation
Check visa rules as each country has different requirements
Be a gracious visitor by learning local customs and phrases in the local language
Buy plane or train tickets and research public transportation to fully immerse yourself in a local experience
2. Plan your itinerary and book accommodation
Embrace tourist attractions and make a list of must-visit spots (they’re popular for a reason)
Find a home base at a conveniently located hotel or short-term rental
Whet your appetite for local cuisine by reading locally written restaurant blogs
3. Pack smarter
Search online for a detailed packing list appropriate to your destination, the season and your activities
Check the weather forecast and pack for predicted low and high temperatures
Stock up on versatile, easy-to-layer clothing and comfortable shoes
4. Secure your travel documents
Check your passport: Some countries will deny you entry if you are within 3–6 months of expiration date
Make copies of all important documents as well as your itinerary
Upload digital copies in secure cloud storage so you can access them on the go
5. Stay connected
Call your mobile service provider to check phone roaming options
Consider purchasing a local SIM card on arrival to save on roaming costs
Download offline maps and travel apps to ensure you can navigate even if you lose smartphone connection
6. Protect your health
Check in with your primary care doctor about destination-specific vaccinations
Pack your medications in their original containers as well as a first-aid kit
Boost your immune system by staying hydrated, getting adequate sleep and eating healthy
7. Buy comprehensive travel insurance
Be ready for medical emergencies with a plan that covers health care abroad
Research insurance that includes trip cancellation/interruption coverage and 24/7 support
Find a plan that helps with baggage loss/delay and emergency pet care/kenneling
8. Address money matters
Ensure credit card use abroad by notifying your bank about your travel
Get local currency at a money exchange and stash some emergency cash in a safe place
Carry both cash and credit cards so you can pay at a place that only takes one or the other
9. Travel safely
Know who to call in a crisis situation by researching safety tips and adding emergency numbers to your phone
Keep belongings secure and never let bags, food or drink out of your sight
Be aware of your surroundings and avoid noise-blocking headphones