If your going to be heading out on a vacation then you should plan well in advanced. This way you can find the best deals, not forget anything and know what your doing. Going on an unplanned trip is just asking for disasters. This time, plan your trip months in advanced so you can actually relax and have a nice vacation without worries.
Tip #1- Deciding your budget for your vacation
Before any trip takes place you should know how much money you have to spend. Figure out how much you have for food, air fair, gas, hotel stay etc. You should know all your aspects, plus don't forget about emergency money. This could even be a credit card. Just in case something happens. Know your limits and stay within that area.
Tip #2- Deciding on your vacation spot
Once you know how much you can spend, you then need to know where your going to spend it at. If your on a tight budget, then try picking a spot that is not very popular. You can still go near what you want, just stay on the outskirts of the place. If you spend most of your money on your hotel stay then you wont have much left to do anything else.
Tip #3- Planning your trip
If you start with enough time then you have plenty time to catch deals, and gather all the information you should need for your trip. You should call around the city you want to be located in and ask to be on their mailing list. They will send you maps, coupons and other small items. If your flying then you should start booking your flight now. Waiting until it gets to close only means higher prices if you can get a flight. Plan any day trips you wish to go on while there. Remember a vacation is about relaxing and having fun. With that in mind, don't over book your time. Rushing around on vacation from one place to another will only stress you out and when your vacation is over you will feel as if you need another one just so you can recoup.
Tip #4- Make Reservations
Start by calling the hotels or looking online for the best deals. Let them know you will be going on a vacation there soon. The longer you stay the better deal you can get. I prefer booking my reservations online, so I can print the confirmation. This way if their is a problem when I go on vacation I have proof that its not my fault. If you planned any day activities then make them reservations now also. This way everything is all settled out.
Tip #5-Notebook
Get a notebook out now. Write every ones name on a separate page will be going. Leave this book on the table. Have everyone start writing things down in this book that you will need for your trip. This way you wont forget anything when you go to leave. Remember you want your vacation to be a real vacation, not a worry trip.
Tips #6- Packing
I would start packing at least one week prior to leaving. This way you can pack as you go and your not rushed into anything. Everything should be packed, zipped and tagged 2 days prior to leaving for your vacation.
