The 10 Step Travel Planner

The 10 Step Travel Planner

Decide how much you have or want to spend – this will help you determine where to go and how long you can stay.  On average a weekend getaway including two or three hotel nights, airfare, food and entertainment can cost a minimum of $500 if you choose a small city to $1500 if you choose New York.

Decide where you want to go; consider nearby cities if you don’t have much time or money.  International destinations require more time and money; at a minimum staying one week in London, Paris or Rome will cost about $1500 - $2000 including airfare and hotel.  Great deals are available if you have flexibility and are able to travel last minute.  Be aware of off-season rates for different locations…fares to Europe are much cheaper in the fall than during summer months. 

Before making reservations read about the destination selected, making sure it’s where you want to go.  Researching is important if you are visiting a place for the first time; check out what others have to say before you make a decision; ask co-workers, friends and neighbors for recommendations.

Research hotel & air packages; be sure to note what’s included in packages like taxes, transfers, meals and any sightseeing; going solo can be expensive so if possible grab a friend or relative to travel with.

Research international tour packages; confirm flight departure and arrival times, flying time, connections, layovers to ensure you are traveling within your comfort zone.  Purchase travel insurance and avoid losing your money if you must cancel.

Before making reservations make sure your passport, if needed, is valid and confirm what visas you may need and that you have enough time to obtain them; Confirm the cancellation policies for packages, hotels, airlines, etc. before you reserve.  If booking online verify costs, dates, etc. before clicking purchase; print a copy of reservations; if booking on the phone request a confirmation by email, fax or mail and get the name of the person making the reservation.  Remember to take written confirmations with you in case of any problems.

After checking the weather (see the 10 day report or averages and records) use a packing list to help with your packing; keep clothing choices to neutral colors so only a few pieces are needed to mix and match; don’t forget comfortable shoes, jacket or sweater depending on the climate and a small umbrella.

Plan your time at your destination; sightseeing, entertainment, shopping, eating, people watching, cultural or sporting events - if needed do more research on the internet or buy a guidebook or borrow one from your public library for free. 

Re-confirm your travel plans before departure, including airport check-in time; if using an online travel agency confirm your flight and hotel directly with the airline/hotel; if using a tour company re-confirm with an agent.

Purchase food and snacks to carry; even if meal service is provided flight delays can occur.  Give travel itinerary to family, friends or neighbors; make copies of identification and credit cards and put in checked luggage.  Stop mail, newspapers and alert security company if necessary.

Step 10

Allow enough travel time to the airport; take a taxi or airport shuttle bus to avoid traffic headaches; rushing equals anxiety. Arrive early, check-in with time to spare, relax and enjoy your trip!