Dreaming of your next getaway? ✨ Before you dive into researching flights, scrolling hotels, or creating a Pinterest-perfect itinerary, it helps to take a step back. A little prep work goes a long way toward making sure your trip is smooth, stress-free, and tailored to you.
Here are five things to do before you start planning your next vacation:
1. Check Your Passport and Travel Documents
It might sound simple, but it’s one of the most overlooked details. Many destinations require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Renewals can take time, so it’s best to check well before you book anything. If you’re traveling domestically, make sure your ID is Real ID–compliant (especially if you’re flying after the upcoming deadlines).
2. Review Your Budget
Before you get swept away by dream hotels and far-flung destinations, decide what you’re comfortable spending. Consider not just flights and accommodations, but also meals, excursions, transportation, and extras like tips or souvenirs. Having a clear budget upfront helps guide your choices, and ensures fewer surprises later.
3. Consider Your Travel Style
Do you love packed days of sightseeing, or do you prefer long mornings over coffee and quiet afternoons wandering local streets? Thinking about your travel style before you plan helps you pick the right destination, pace, and accommodations. Your trip should reflect you, not just a checklist of places to see.
4. Research Entry Requirements and Safety Tips
Visa requirements, vaccination rules, and entry forms can vary widely by destination. A quick check can save a lot of stress later. You’ll also want to familiarize yourself with any health or safety advisories, local customs, and tipping etiquette so you feel confident when you arrive.
5. Decide Whether to DIY or Work with an Expert
Planning a trip can be fun, but it can also be overwhelming and time-consuming. Ask yourself if you want to spend hours comparing hotels and excursions, or if you’d rather hand it over to someone who does it every day. A travel advisor (like me!) can help match you to the right destination, save you hours of research, and smooth out all the details so you can simply enjoy.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of these essentials before you start planning your next vacation means fewer headaches and more excitement. With the right prep, you can focus on what matters most: making memories and experiencing the joy of travel.
✨ Ready to turn your vacation daydream into reality? Styled Getaways takes the stress out of planning, so all you have to do is pack and go.