Planning
Hacks
Make A List!
What easier way to get your ducks in a row than with a list!
- Itemize everything you need to bring with you! List EVERYTHING!
- From the above list create sub-lists! Yay
- Keep all confirmations of bookings!!
- Use your smartphone’s calendar to keep on track with necessary deadlines, alternatively there are numerous travel planning apps to keep you organized too!
Travel Documents
Part of planning a trip involves making sure you have the right travel documentation. Get all required documents way before your planned departure. Make sure your passport is up to date and won’t expire during your planned trip, renewal processes can sometimes take time and you want to catch that flight!!
Also consider your immunizations. Some destinations may require or it may be recommended to have specific vaccinations.
Are you planning to drive? Make sure you have the correct licence requirements!
Go to Travel Documents
Affording To Travel
Want to go away but not sure how to afford it? Well, I am not a financial advisor but I do know that travelling doesn’t have to be expensive. Part of planning your trip is knowing your budget and getting the best bang for your buck. Saving up for a trip can take time but the experience is the ultimate reward!
Sometimes there are great last minute deals if you have that flexibility. Some agencies also offer payment plans which you pay for in advance of the trip.
Another thing to consider is how you are going to spend money whilst on your trip – plastic or cash? Travelor’s cheques? Make sure your know what is accepted and advised. Is it an all inclusive destination? What about tips?
Have an Itinerary!
Typically when you go away it is (alas) for a set period of time. There can be so much that you want to see and do and finding that balance between exploring and not feeling rushed can be tricky. A good thought out agenda can help balance out your time, whilst maintaining that vacation vibe. Knowing where you are visiting ahead of time is not only building your anticipation and satiateing your excitement as you prepare, it is setting you up for a great, stress-free experience.
Pro Tip: Checking out great places to eat in the area ahead of time saves alot of hunger pangs and also makes sure you are getting the best dining experience too!
Travel Documents
No matter where you live in the world there are documents required to leave your country as well as enter another. In the US these documents are:
⇒ A valid passport (that also won’t expire while you are abroad)
⇒ A visa/entry document for your destination country
Keep your travel documents up to date, if your trip is close to the expiry date, renew it! Any document that you require in order to enter and exit the country needs to be current.
Air Travel
When leaving the US by air you will need your valid US passport book or your Nexus air card
Land & Sea Travel
When leaving the US by land or by sea you will need your valid US passport card rather than the book
Driving Abroad
When planning on driving abroad you will need to ensure you have obtained the right permits ahead of time.
If you are planning to drive in Canada and Mexico your state driver’s license is valid. However for all other destinations you may need to get an International Driving Permit for foreign drivers.
Pearls of Wisdom
Keep a Journal!
Keep track of your adventures! Keeping a jounal is a great way to capture how you’re feeling, thoughts which might otherwise get forgotten. Be it a handwritten journal or electronic, make sure take lots of pictures and videos also!!
Lost in Translation?
I love learning new languages and do my best to learn the basics before I go! Taking a language dictionary makes for a great read on a long flight. There’s also the option of installing a translator app on your device. Both great aids to navigating through conversations.
Maps
A wonderfully convenient thing these days is the ability to find out not only where you are, but also what is close by plus assistance on how to get anywhere you want to go – and it is all at your fingertips. Google maps is a prime example of such luxury, no longer having to fumble through dated paper maps, routes can now be planned and timed, real-time traffic updates. Hungry? Well the ability to locate a restaurant near you is right there too!
Embassies
Know the contact information of the US embassy in your destination country. Click here to locate!
Immunizations
Always research what immunizations are recommended in your destination country. What shots for where?
Apps
There are so many options as far as apps go that simplify everything from the planning, where to stay, eat, etc. There is an app for EVERYTHING!