▲Start by selecting a location based on interests, season, travel restrictions, or other motivating factors.

▲Open up a spreadsheet and get to creating a budget. This will include all travel costs such as accommodation, food, and activities. Creating a budget allows you to plan accordingly.

▲The key is to balance a flexible itinerary with must-see attractions. Depending on your personality type, you may prefer a jam-packed schedule or one with some freedom to explore.

▲

Draw up a simple calendar outline, noting where you’d like to be each day. This allows you to then break it down by hour or other smaller increments.

▲

If you’re going to be exploring a new place, it’s important to consider travel insurance to cover you. Explore various policies as well as compare prices and coverage.

▲How will you get to the location? Also think about commuting within the destination: will you travel on public transportation, or rent a car?

▲

Where you’ll call home temporarily is important. Be sure to compare hotels, Airbnbs, hostels, and camping sites for different experiences.

▲Perhaps you want to plan your days around themes like history, nature, or food. Knowing the theme ahead of time can help streamline decisions on what to include within the itinerary.

▲Weather can drastically impact your trip including what you pack, so checking in advance and planning accordingly is key.

▲

Identify which landmarks exist and, of those, which you want to visit. Then, schedule visits to key attractions and purchase tickets in advance.

▲Becoming one with local cultures can be an exciting part of any trip. Hop online and explore local dining options and must-try foods and drinks, then work these into your itinerary.

▲While you're traveling it's important for safety and ease to understand local customs and specifically how to respect them.

▲

Is your destination of choice known for a certain activity or event? Incorporate experiences unique to the area, like a traditional dance show or a crafts workshop.

▲Jot down a list of what to pack for the trip in order to maximize space, efficiency, and minimize time spent packing.

▲Will internet or data be available before, during, or after you arrive? Evaluate the availability and cost of Wi-Fi or cellular service, especially if you need to stay connected for work or emergencies.

▲Research and sort out how to manage group dynamics and expectations when traveling with friends or family.

▲Before your trip, check into staying safe and healthy, including travel advisories and local emergency information.

▲Traveling alone? Be sure to research tips and tricks for staying safe while adventuring solo, as you could be more of a target because you’re not with others.

▲

Plan for any accessibility needs, ensuring that locations, accommodations, and activities are suitable for all travelers, including those with disabilities.

▲Prepare for potential language challenges by learning key phrases or using technology such as a language translation app.

▲

Use feedback and reviews from previous travelers to refine your plans, ensuring you choose highly recommended options and avoid common mistakes or pitfalls.

Sources: (TripIt) (Clumsy Girl Travels) (Wanderlog) (WP Travel)

▲Consider the environmental impact of your travel choices, seeking sustainable options like eco-friendly hotels or tours.

▲Tailor activities to the physical ability levels of all participants, ensuring that everyone can comfortably participate.

▲Account for any special or unique dietary needs by researching restaurants or markets that cater to specific requirements like vegan, gluten-free, etc.

▲Allocate time for shopping and focus on local artisans and markets where you can find unique souvenirs and gifts.

▲

Look for educational opportunities like museums, historical tours, or lectures that can enhance your understanding of your chosen destination.

▲

Do you know which apps are most useful to have for traveling and do you have them downloaded? Apps or websites for navigation, translation, and recommendations could serve you well!

▲

Have you been craving your next adventure or thinking about where you’d go if you had the time? If you’re like most people, the answer is a resounding yes! Before you actually set foot in the destination, though, it’s important to plan. Planning involves creating a travel itinerary and, whether you’ve created one before or not, simply thinking through these questions can be very impactful. This guide will help ensure you have everything covered from start to finish, and have the greatest chance of truly enjoying your next trip.

Curious about what to include in your travel itinerary? Click through to learn more.