My son is planning a trip to Mumbai – City of dreams. I told him I will share my travel planning guide with him and YOU. Here’s, my 11 exclusive tips on how to plan your first trip anywhere!
I still remember when I started planning my first trip. And, had no clue what I was doing.
As you know, travel planning is overwhelming and time-consuming, especially if you are traveling with kids. I also feel the same way. Sometimes I travel solo; sometimes I plan a vacation with my family. On my first trip, I made a lot of travel mistakes. Chances are you can also make those mistakes. But, with these 11 tips that I have learned through on-the-road experiences can lower down the probability of making mistakes.
Here are my 11 exclusive tips on planning the first trip:
1. Choose your travel destination
Which place do you want to visit? The first thing to decide is your travel destination. Choose the place or city or country that meets your interests and travel budget.
2. Fix the length of your trip
Once you have fixed your destination to go on a trip, fix the length of your trip. You can plan for a short trip or a long term trip. But, the length of your travel needs to be fixed.
3. The time you have in your hands
If you are in service, self-employed, or professional, you have to work for livelihood. If you are a family man and planning a trip with the family, then the time you can dedicate for traveling depends on school vacation of your kids. Prepare the list of works that you have planned to do when you get holidays. Distribute this time between important tasks and trips.
Even if you are planning a trip to your domestic home, fix the time you will be on that trip.
4. Will you be traveling solo, as a couple, or going on family vacations?
If you are traveling solo, you can freely plan according to your interest. It is to note that a memorable trip is the one where each member gets to experience something they wish for.
5. Choose your destination based on your expectations from the trip
There are Several destinations may be in your “must-visit places” list. Narrow down your list by asking yourself a few questions.
Do you want to plan a trip for:
- Relaxation
- Adventure
- Experiencing road trips
- Explore festivals and culture
- Shopping or food experience
- Luxurious or budgeted trip
It is my advice to choose a destination that gives you the experiences you love to enjoy.
6. Importance of high season and low season – Fix a date to travel
Before booking your tickets, do your research. Weather and crowds play an important role for me during my trip. During high season, too much crowd can ruin the beauty of the trip. Choose a date that suits you for your travel.
7. Book your flight for your trip
As your destination is finalized, the next step is to book your flight. Check airfare and notice the cheapest day to fly. Be flexible with dates when booking your flight ticket. Slight changes in your dates of traveling can save you more. With a few tips, you can master tips on how to book cheap flights. It will help you in reducing one of your biggest travel expenses.
8. Time to protect your travel – Get Travel insurance
It is important to protect your valuable items during your trip. A small investment in travel insurance can provide you peace of mind in your journey.
When you are planning a trip, don’t ignore this tip. It’s one of the important vacation planning tips. Sometime things may go wrong during your travel period. If you are insured, you can protect yourself from the inconvenience and loss caused.
9. Book your accommodation
Accommodation is part of your major expenses in your travel budget. It matters where you stay and sleep during your trip. By choosing the best accommodation at the best price will save more money on activities.
If you are traveling with kids, it is not only about finding the cheapest accommodation but getting safety and comfort also matters.
10. Prior research – List of things to see and do
It is a time-saving task to pre-plan and makes a list of things and activities you want to experience during your trip.
- A smart traveler makes a list of:
- Free activities to do in the city
- Parks and playgrounds to be visited
- Travel guidelines
- Ask from family and friends for ideas on things to do in your destination who have been there before
When you plan a trip, make a list of must-visit tourist attractions. Do your research and note down those popular activities that are free for travelers. Sometimes popular attractions get fully booked in advance. So, don’t visit that place with expectations to get in. If tickets are available online, then book it at the right time.
11. Check your passport
If you are planning to go on an overseas trip, check for your passport validity. Most countries require that your passport is valid for six months or more.
If you don’t have a passport, apply for it at earliest.
That’s it. Now, you are ready to plan your trip more effectively. You know where to start planning a trip. Enjoy the travel planning process.
