Tips on Planning Your 2019 Summer Vacation

Believe it or not, summer is right around the corner and so is your upcoming vacation. As such, you’re likely more than ready to take some time off of work and enjoy a much-earned break.

And because you work hard for your money, you definitely don’t want to fritter it away on a disorganized vacation that ends up being more stressful than relaxing. In order to get the most out of your trip — and have the wonderful time you deserve — consider the following tips:

Decide Your Key Goals for the Vacation

As Wanderlust notes, setting an intention for your vacation will help you to better focus your time. For example, do you want to mostly relax and detach from the busy world, possibly off the grid?

Or, do you want to see specific parts of the United States and/or other countries and take in all of the history and sights that you can? Solidifying your pans will help ensure you won’t plan a vacation to a bustling city when what you really want is to lie on a beach chair with a good book.

Research Possible Options

Now that you have a solid idea of your vacation goals, it’s time to research specific locales and narrow down where you want to go. If you prefer some R&R, look into renting a cabin in the woods with your family or staying at a beach resort. Conversely, if you love to drive, then taking a cross-country road trip to see friends, family and some great scenery is a perfect option.

Or, if you like the idea of taking in beautiful scenery but not having to drive, make it a point to explore any number of cruise line options. For instance, Princess offers Alaskan cruise vacation options that allow you to see glaciers, wildlife and national parks, all from the comfort of the ship. 

As a bonus, Alaskan cruise prices are often quite reasonable, allowing you to choose group packages that feature a variety of dates and itineraries.

Try to Include Something for Everyone

Whether you’re traveling with your BFF or your family, experts suggest including activities in your itinerary that everyone can enjoy. 

For example, if you plan what you think is a great family camping trip but your tween daughter would rather perish than sleep in a tent, perhaps you can promise her one or two nights of “glamping” in a luxurious nearby resort that features an amazing pool and water slides.

Or, if your bestie is chomping at the bit to tour The Big Apple but you really want a good pampering day, consider staying at a hotel with a spa where you can book manis and pedis before catching the double decker tour bus.

Start Booking Your Flights and/or Hotel Rooms

Once you have your plans solidified, it’s time to start booking your flight and hotel reservations. By doing this well ahead of the trip, you can take some time to research different options and find the best prices for everything from airfare and car rentals to hotels and campgrounds. 

If you’re flying to your destination, check out which airlines offer the best deals and most reasonable flight times; after all, you may find it’s worth paying a bit more per person to fly direct instead of having two layovers. 

The same is true for hotels, campgrounds and other locations that require reservations. Instead of hastily booking the first place you find, shop around a bit online and make some calls to the different places to see if they’re offering any summertime specials.

Have a Marvelous Time!

Before you know it, you’ll be all packed and ready to start your summer vacation. By following these tips and planning your trip far in advance; having a solid idea of what you hope to achieve on the vacation; and keeping everyone’s needs in mind, you’ll no doubt enjoy your time away and return more refreshed and happy.