{"id":17047,"date":"2019-10-06T03:03:18","date_gmt":"2019-10-06T10:03:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/?p=17047"},"modified":"2022-12-08T10:22:27","modified_gmt":"2022-12-08T17:22:27","slug":"how-to-plan-a-trip-planning","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/how-to-plan-a-trip-planning\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Plan a Trip Like a Pro: The Only Trip Planning Resource You\u2019ll Ever Need"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Wondering how to plan a trip without all the headaches? Yeah, travel planning can be quite the doozy. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s time-consuming, overwhelming, and downright confusing; there\u2019s flights to book, currencies to convert, time to take off, and activities to plan. And that\u2019s not even considering all the getting around once you actually arrive! <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don\u2019t let the stresses of travel planning get in the way of heading to your dream destination. I get it, though, I really do, there&#8217;s a lot to do. Planning a trip can seem like a daunting task. But I\u2019m here to help with my travel planning tips!&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-16905 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"563\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/komodo-tour-9-750x563.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16905\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/komodo-tour-9-750x563.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/komodo-tour-9-533x400.jpg 533w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/komodo-tour-9-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/komodo-tour-9-166x126.jpg 166w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/komodo-tour-9-850x638.jpg 850w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/komodo-tour-9.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>worth it for these waters in Komodo, right?<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Luckily, I\u2019ve planned dozens (and dozens) of trips, from quick weekend jaunts to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/unique-wineries-in-napa\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Napa Valley<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/weekend-in-lassen-volcanic-national-park\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lassen Volcanic National Park<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, to faraway exotic destinations like <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/10-day-bali-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bali<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/morocco-itinerary-inspiration\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Morocco<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (with ridiculously detailed itineraries). <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After lots of trial and error (and making tons of mistakes on my part) I\u2019ve figured out a way to ease the travel planning process. I\u2019ve narrowed it down to an easy 18 steps on how to plan a trip, so you, too, can take the trip of your dreams. Whether it\u2019s a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/maui-itinerary-5-days-for-first-timers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5-day beach break<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or a culturally diverse <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/two-weeks-in-thailand-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2-week trip to Thailand<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, follow my advice below and you\u2019ll be off before you know it.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I\u2019m kinda known for my crazy-detailed itineraries, and get lots of people asking me for help on others. I haven\u2019t been everywhere, so wanted to provide this trip planning resource so you can plan epic trips of your own! <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is my exact trip planning method &#8211; it\u2019s kinda ingrained in me now, but after getting it all down on paper, I realized I actually prefer doing things in a set step-by-step basis! Perfect for you because you can copy how I plan my trips!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-12192 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Santorini-Greece-2016-146-750x500.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12192\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Santorini-Greece-2016-146-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Santorini-Greece-2016-146-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Santorini-Greece-2016-146-30x20.jpg 30w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Santorini-Greece-2016-146-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/Santorini-Greece-2016-146-850x567.jpg 850w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>I didn&#8217;t spend 36352 hours planning our honeymoon to Greece or anything like that&#8230;. (guilty!)<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So if you\u2019re looking for a STEP-BY-STEP guide (made for busy professionals like you), continue reading, because this trip itinerary planner is juuuust the thing you\u2019re looking for. Don\u2019t blame me if you plan too many vacations. :p<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2192 Read Next: <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/how-to-travel-more-with-full-time-job\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to Travel More (with a full time 9-5 job)<\/span><\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2><strong>How to Plan a Trip: <\/strong><b>Actionable steps to planning a trip of your dreams<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Step 1: Inspiration + Fun\/General Research<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before we get started on the specifics of how to plan a trip, start with some travel inspo! And sometimes, just getting inspired is half the fun of actually booking the trip (at least it is for me).&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I like to use <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pinterest.com\/apassionandapassport\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pinterest<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/instagram.com\/apassionandapassport\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Instagram<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, good old fashioned travel mags (at the dentist\/doctor or when strolling through <\/span><del><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">my favorite store<\/span><\/del><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Target), and of course, travel blogs.&nbsp; I constantly find myself swooning over photos I see, and sometimes even book a trip based off of one photo alone, like that time I begged my sister to head off to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/fes-to-chefchaouen-morocco-blue-city\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chefchaoen<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with me (I\u2019m a <\/span><em><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">highly <\/span><\/em><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">visual person if you haven\u2019t noticed).&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-16271 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"525\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/chaufchaoen-morocco-5-750x525.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16271\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/chaufchaoen-morocco-5-750x525.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/chaufchaoen-morocco-5-571x400.jpg 571w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/chaufchaoen-morocco-5-850x595.jpg 850w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/chaufchaoen-morocco-5.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>only a few more steps until you could be wandering the cheerful streets of Chefchaoen&#8230;<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Since my mind goes into overload during the inspiration phase, I make sure to organize what I find right away as efficiently as humanly possible. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Enter, Google Maps. As soon as I find a spot I wanna visit (whether it be as specific as a restaurant in a little town or a country as a whole), I type it into Google Maps and hit Save \u2192 Want to Go. This way, all my finds are kept neatly in one place, and already plotted on a map to see general locations. You should see my Google Maps &#8211; it\u2019s covered in those little green pin markers.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A few posts for some inspiration right over here:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/travel-bucket-list\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">My Life-Long Bucket List<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/most-beautiful-places-in-california\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most Beautiful Places in California<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/usa-itineraries-one-week\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">25 Perfect Week-Long USA Itineraries<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Where I went in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/2013-travel-highlights-and-2014-travel-plans\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2013<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/life-and-travel-roundup-2014\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2014<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/life-and-travel-2015\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2015<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/life-travel-2016-highlights-year\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2016<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/life-and-travel-2017-highlights\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2017<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/2018-year-in-review-travel-life-highlights\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2018<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/winter-weekend-getaways-in-the-usa-snowy-and-warm\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">35+ Winter Weekend Getaways in the USA<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (snowy and warm)<\/span><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/my-travel-bucket-list-usa-edition\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">My Travel Bucket List: USA Edition<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/14-adventurous-places-to-travel-in-2014\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">14 Adventurous Places to Travel&nbsp;<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/29-gorgeous-beaches-around-the-world\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Best Beaches Around the World<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/southeast-asia-bucket-list\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Ultimate South East Asia Bucket List<\/span><\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"mceTemp\">\u00a0<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-7357 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/bora-bora-13-750x500.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7357\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/bora-bora-13-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/bora-bora-13-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/bora-bora-13-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/bora-bora-13-850x567.jpg 850w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>Bora Bora, the ultimate island fantasy<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Specific Bucket-list worthy experiences:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/komodo-island-tour-package\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Meeting the Dragons in Komodo<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/what-to-do-in-park-city-besides-ski\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bobsledding in Park City, Utah<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/greece-itinerary-10-days\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sailing the Greek Islands<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/tag\/bora-bora\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Staying in an Overwater Bungalow<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/kauai-itinerary-3-days\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Beach bumming Hawaii<\/span><\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once you\u2019ve narrowed down your list to a few places you wanna go, figure out how much time you\u2019ll need and the best time of year to visit. Make this quick &#8211; no need to do intense research just yet. We\u2019re still in the beginning phases of how to plan your trip. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">They\u2019ll be time later for lots and lots of googling, reading, and finalizing. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Jot it down on paper in 3 columns: Places I Want to See, Time Needed, and Best Time of Year to Visit (based off of weather). I quickly google \u201cbest time to go to ____\u201d. Example here:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"656\" height=\"437\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/how-to-plan-a-trip-destination-organizer.png\" alt=\"How to plan a trip like a pro\" class=\"wp-image-17048\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/how-to-plan-a-trip-destination-organizer.png 656w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/how-to-plan-a-trip-destination-organizer-600x400.png 600w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/how-to-plan-a-trip-destination-organizer-272x182.png 272w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 656px) 100vw, 656px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Step 2: Decide on your Destination and Trip Length<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How much time are you allocating to this trip? Are you able to use a bunch of PTO and make it an epic adventure? When can you travel? Before you even begin to plan your trip, you\u2019ve gotta know where you\u2019re going and for how long!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Be as specific as possible. Instead of saying \u201cI want to go to Europe\u201d, specify the exact country, and then cities within. \u201cI\u2019m headed to Barcelona and Valencia!\u201d sounds much more real, and you\u2019ve got a much more specific goal to work towards.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Think about the type of trip you want &#8211; are you a \u201csee-as-much-as-possible\u201d and \u201ccross-it-off-the-list\u201d type of traveler, or do you want to take a few days to really get to know a place inside and out? I\u2019m more of the first type (hey, yolo, right?), but I\u2019m starting to appreciate spending ample time in destinations I really love.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What kind of weather do you want? Are you looking for a <a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/things-to-do-in-banff-in-winter\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">frozen, ice-filled fantasy<\/a> or longing for <a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/komodo-island-tour-package\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">a few days basking in the sun<\/a>? How do <a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/3-days-in-ubud-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">cultural<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/where-to-eat-in-mexico-city-food-restaurants\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">foodie<\/a> experiences sound? Are you looking to stay close-ish to home or are you prepared to travel far? All questions you gotta ask yourself when choosing a destination.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><b>TIPS FOR SHORTER TRIPS (up to 7 days)<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image wp-image-8334 size-large is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/park-city-utah-38-750x500.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8334\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/park-city-utah-38-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/park-city-utah-38-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/park-city-utah-38-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/12\/park-city-utah-38-850x567.jpg 850w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>closer to home than you think&#8230; (<a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/what-to-do-in-park-city-besides-ski\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Park City, Utah<\/a>)<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you know you\u2019ll only have a few days, don\u2019t pick a place that\u2019ll take you 2 days to get to. We want to maximize the amount of time you\u2019ll actually have in your destination. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">And Psst &#8211; don\u2019t think there\u2019s much around you? Think again. There\u2019s likely loads within a few hours. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For example, from NYC, you can get to London in just under 7 hours, the Caribbean\/Central America in 3\/4 hours (depending on where), Iceland in just 5 \u00bd, and the other side of the country in 6. <\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From San Francisco, you can get to Japan in 10 hours, Mexico City in 4 \u00bd, and Hawaii in 5.&nbsp; Cliche, I know, but the world really is your oyster. <\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Only have a few days? Check out these sample itineraries I&#8217;ve created to see exactly how much I&#8217;m able to fit in in just a few days!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Coming from the States:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/long-weekend-trips-from-san-francisco\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Long Weekend Trips from San Francisco<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/long-weekend-trips-from-nyc\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Long Weekend Trips from New York City<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/maui-itinerary-5-days-for-first-timers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5 Days in Maui<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \/<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/kauai-itinerary-3-days\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3 Days in Kauai<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/3-days-in-mexico-city-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3 Days in Mexico City&nbsp;<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/3-days-in-las-vegas-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3 Days in Las Vegas<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/3-days-in-washington-dc-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3 Days in Washington DC<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/3-days-in-portland-oregon-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3 Days in Portland, Oregon<\/span><\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Coming from Europe:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/3-days-in-vienna-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">3 Days in Vienna<\/a><\/span><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/barcelona-itinerary-3-days\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3 Days in Barcelona<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/2-days-in-venice-itinerary-things-to-do\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2 Days in Venice<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/three-days-in-santorini-greece\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3 Days in Santorini<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/2-days-in-athens-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2 Days in Athens<\/span><\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Coming from Asia:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/3-days-in-ubud-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3 Days in Ubud<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/3-days-in-tokyo-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3 Days in Tokyo<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/3-days-in-taipei-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3 Days in Taipei<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/2-days-in-bangkok-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2 Days in Bangkok<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/3-days-in-singapore-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3 Days in Singapore<\/span><\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/hong-kong-itinerary-3-days\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3 Days in Hong Kong<\/span><\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><b>TIPS FOR LONGER TRIPS (1 week+)<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Longer trips are undeniably much harder to plan, since there\u2019s a bunch of logistics involved in getting from place to place. You probably won&#8217;t be staying in the same exact spot for all 7+ days. But as long as you start your research early and follow my itinerary planning advice below, you\u2019ll be a step above everyone else blindly crafting their schedules. P<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ractice really does make perfect, so the first long, multi-destination trip you plan will be the hardest. Expect a few hiccups, but just go along with it; that\u2019s just part of traveling!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-13046 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"508\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/Wat-Pho-Thailand-2-750x508.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13046\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/Wat-Pho-Thailand-2-750x508.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/Wat-Pho-Thailand-2-591x400.jpg 591w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/Wat-Pho-Thailand-2-300x203.jpg 300w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/Wat-Pho-Thailand-2-850x575.jpg 850w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/Wat-Pho-Thailand-2.jpg 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>took over 20 hours to get here, but well worth it (<a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/2-days-in-bangkok-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Bangkok<\/a>)<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019ve got a longer amount of time, check out these bucket-list worthy destinations for inspiration (and plus, I already planned out the bulk of these itineraries = less leg work\/heavy research for you):<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/two-weeks-in-thailand-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2 Weeks in Thailand<\/span><\/a><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/10-days-in-japan-a-first-timers-complete-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10 Days in Japan<\/span><\/a><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/california-coast-road-trip-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">California Coast Road Trip<\/span><\/a><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/10-days-in-norway-road-trip-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10 Days in Norway<\/span><\/a><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/2-weeks-in-croatia-itinerary-for-first-time-visitors\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2 Weeks in Croatia (+Bosnia)<\/span><\/a><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/things-to-do-in-panama-vacation-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10 days in Panama<\/span><\/a><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/two-weeks-in-spain-and-portugal-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2 Weeks in Spain and Portugal<\/span><\/a><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/10-day-bali-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10 days in Bali<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> + <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/komodo-island-tour-package\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Komodo National Park<\/span><\/a><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/7-days-in-iceland-itinerary-with-no-car\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A Week in Iceland<\/span><\/a><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/greece-itinerary-10-days\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10 days in Greece<\/span><\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">And right after I decide on a destination, I always research to see if a visa is involved. Some you can get upon arrival at the airport, while others you need to apply and wait for. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don\u2019t book a ticket without knowing the visa situation, as airlines don\u2019t check for proper documentation before you book your flight (and it\u2019s possible you\u2019ll get turned away at the airport and need to go back home just as soon as you arrive into the country which requires a visa &#8211; not fun!).<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Step 3: Choose your Approximate Travel Dates<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019ve done your due diligence and filled out your own travel planning worksheet above, you already know the best time to visit your dream destination. However, when considering the best time to travel, there\u2019s quite a few factors to think about.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Weather<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No one wants to get to their destination after planning for months only to realize they forgot to look into the weather patterns. Will it be rainy season? Hurricane season? Ridiculously over-the-top blazing hot (sweating profusely is no fun for anyone). I\u2019ve had friends visit Bora Bora (a wildly-expensive once-in-a-lifetime trip) in the rainy season and I crossed my fingers for sun for them. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I always like to visit a destination in either the high season or shoulder season, for the best chance of perfect or near-perfect weather. I\u2019m someone who despises rain with a passion (some may like it, but just think about if your activities will be dampered because of some precipitation). This is extra important to me, and I\u2019d rather pay a bit more money for higher possibilities of sun and no rain\/clouds. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Of course, you cannot predict the weather months from now, but I always look at the expected weather trends in my intended travel month and stay away from the rainy\/hurricane season.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-16001 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"525\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/banff-winter-lake-minnewanka-750x525.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16001\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/banff-winter-lake-minnewanka-750x525.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/banff-winter-lake-minnewanka-571x400.jpg 571w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/banff-winter-lake-minnewanka-850x595.jpg 850w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/banff-winter-lake-minnewanka.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>longing for some icicles?<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Crowds<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For the best combo of pleasant weather and minimal crowds, it\u2019s wise to travel in the shoulder season (weeks\/months outside of high season). This will of course change from destination to destination, but in general, late April-early June and September-October is shoulder season in many parts of both Europe and the USA. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Think about when kids are back in school &#8211; if you visit when school is in attendance, you\u2019ll have less families traveling and therefore fewer overall people.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image wp-image-8877 size-large is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/trevi-fountain-750x500.jpeg\" alt=\"Three days in Rome is the perfect amount of time for site seeing, lots of eating, and city strolling. Check out what to do in Rome in three days, what to eat, and where to sleep.\" class=\"wp-image-8877\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/trevi-fountain-750x500.jpeg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/trevi-fountain-600x400.jpeg 600w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/trevi-fountain-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/trevi-fountain-850x567.jpeg 850w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>skip Italy in summer if you don&#8217;t wanna deal with ridiculous crowds (and heat!)<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Cost<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Note that high season typically sees higher costs (but hey, it\u2019s high season for a reason!). If you can visit when kids are back in school, you\u2019ll have higher chances of finding a good deal. Visiting during a holiday? If you can plan your travels bypassing Christmas and New Years, you\u2019ll automatically save a whole bunch, as this is the most expensive time to travel to most places.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-16577 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"563\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/hotel-850020_1280-750x563.jpg\" alt=\"Headed to Las Vegas and looking for the best 3 day Las Vegas itinerary? Keep on reading for opulent hotels, sugary snacks, and luxurious spa treatments. See, it\u2019s not all kitschy casinos and high-cash table games!\" class=\"wp-image-16577\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/hotel-850020_1280-750x563.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/hotel-850020_1280-533x400.jpg 533w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/hotel-850020_1280-166x126.jpg 166w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/hotel-850020_1280-850x638.jpg 850w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/hotel-850020_1280.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>you&#8217;ll find much cheaper room rates mid-week over in <a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/3-days-in-las-vegas-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Las Vegas<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Attending a Specific Event<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Is there a specific festival\/event\/animal migration you want to attend\/witness? For example, Oktoberfest in Germany, whale watching in Monterey, safari in Africa, and Burning Man in Nevada. Full Moon Party in Thailand and the Day of the Dead in Mexico are two other examples. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You\u2019ll need to obviously plan your trip around these dates\/months. Do note that it\u2019ll most likely be one of the most costliest times to visit, so plan to book flights and accommodations way in advance.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-14630 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"498\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/cherry-blossom-2353051_1280-750x498.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-14630\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/cherry-blossom-2353051_1280-750x498.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/cherry-blossom-2353051_1280-600x398.jpg 600w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/cherry-blossom-2353051_1280-640x425.jpg 640w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/cherry-blossom-2353051_1280-850x564.jpg 850w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/cherry-blossom-2353051_1280-272x182.jpg 272w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/cherry-blossom-2353051_1280.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>we had to wait 9 months until we could visit Japan to see the cherry blossoms<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No need to plan exact dates just yet, just know the general timeframe of when you want to go. For example, this could be 1) early June 2021, 2) between Thanksgiving and Christmas, 3) birthday month, etc.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Step 4: Decide on your Travel Partners<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are you planning on traveling solo or with friends\/family\/significant other?&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><b>Traveling with Friends\/Family\/Children?<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Traveling with other people can be a bit more difficult to plan (you\u2019ve got other people\u2019s interests and budgets to cater to), but the memories will be even sweeter when you can reminisce about your fantastic trip together in a few months.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Planning a trip with family? You\u2019ll likely be deciding on your destination together. Remember &#8211; it\u2019s all a compromise. If I want a few days of running around a major city, we always make sure to head to smaller towns\/spend a day or two relaxing on the beach for my husband later on in the trip. Everyone should be part of the decision-making process.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-15030 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/crater-lake-oregon-42-750x500.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-15030\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/crater-lake-oregon-42-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/crater-lake-oregon-42-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/crater-lake-oregon-42-850x567.jpg 850w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/crater-lake-oregon-42-272x182.jpg 272w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/crater-lake-oregon-42.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>this girl was super easy to travel with \ud83d\ude42 (<a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/things-to-do-in-crater-lake-national-park-oregon\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Crater Lake<\/a>)<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When I\u2019m traveling with friends, I like to have my desired destination in mind as well as approximate dates. Don\u2019t go to your friend and say \u201cwanna travel next year?\u201d. It\u2019s way too open-ended, especially if you have a general idea of where you wanna go. I just started planning a trip for Spring Break, so asked my friend if she wants to accompany me on a trip to Jordan in late March. See, much more specific.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Always know the type of accommodation you both prefer, if this will be a budget\/mid-range\/luxury trip, and how the other person feels about spending some time solo (if one person wants to do something but the other really doesn\u2019t want to). Your bestest of friends may make the worst travel buddies &#8211; be upfront about as much as possible and you\u2019ll have the greatest chance of a smooth trip.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><b>Traveling Solo?<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Never traveled solo before? Don\u2019t fret &#8211; I just started traveling solo a few years ago and <a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/solo-female-travel-safety-tips\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">fell in love with the whole concept<\/a>! It\u2019s all so freeing! You can pick and choose all your activities, have cupcakes for breakfast (guilty!), and take as many photos as you want (64597 or 0)! Things do end up being a bit more expensive because you\u2019ve got no one to split the bill with, so I typically stay in hostels and eat tons of street food to help with costs.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-15846 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"525\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/bosnia-2-2-750x525.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-15846\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/bosnia-2-2-750x525.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/bosnia-2-2-571x400.jpg 571w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/bosnia-2-2-850x595.jpg 850w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/bosnia-2-2.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>solo jaunts in <a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/things-to-do-in-san-miguel-de-allende\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">San Miguel de Allende<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When traveling solo for the first time, I recommend heading to a country that speaks your language, has an easy currency conversion, and is known for being safe and with a good tourist infrastructure. I loved traveling solo in <a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/7-days-in-iceland-itinerary-with-no-car\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Iceland<\/a>, London, and <a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/2-weeks-in-croatia-itinerary-for-first-time-visitors\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Croatia<\/a> solo, and would highly recommend these countries for first-time solo travelers!&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2192&nbsp;<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/solo-female-travel-safety-tips\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All my female solo travel tips over here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (useful for you men as well, but it\u2019s catered towards women, just FYI). \ud83d\ude42<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Step 5: Research Trip Costs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before you can you do research on trip costs, you\u2019ve gotta know where you\u2019re going (obviously, because places all cost a different amount of money), how long you plan to travel for (more days = more money, usually), and when you aim to go (high season vs. low season can be wildly different in terms of financials).&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">See, this is why you need to figure out how long you\u2019re planning to travel for before you do your research on trip costs. Every night at a hotel, plus food and activities per day, will add up quickly.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">But it\u2019s true &#8211; a vacation is only as expensive as you make it. Don\u2019t expect baller champagne on a beer budget. That being said, you still can have a hell-of-a-time without spending a fortune. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Everyone told us that Japan would be over-the-top expensive, and we found it pretty in line with other trips we\u2019ve taken. Must have been those inexpensive AirBnBs we found and eating cheap street food everyday.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-16091 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/mexico-city-11-750x500.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16091\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/mexico-city-11-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/mexico-city-11-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/mexico-city-11-850x567.jpg 850w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/mexico-city-11-272x182.jpg 272w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/mexico-city-11.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>tacos are always a good idea, especially when they&#8217;re ~$1.50 each<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re traveling solo you won\u2019t have many opportunities to cut these costs down (hostels are great for solo travelers), but if you\u2019ve got a travel partner and are planning on sharing accommodation, you can automatically save 50% on hotels, car rentals, some activities, etc.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Make a rough outline of how much you think the trip will cost, approximations of course. Be sure to note flight, hotel, meals, activities, transportation, and any possible extras. The more research you do, the fewer surprises you&#8217;ll have later on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"662\" height=\"372\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/how-to-plan-a-trip-costs.png\" alt=\"How to plan a trip like a pro\" class=\"wp-image-17049\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/how-to-plan-a-trip-costs.png 662w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/how-to-plan-a-trip-costs-600x337.png 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 662px) 100vw, 662px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition, when thinking about your budget, think about areas in which you could save some money, and what hotels\/activities\/experiences you feel comfortable splurging on. Would you rather stay at <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/10-day-bali-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">that posh 5 star resort for 2 nights<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or take a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/maui-helicopter-tour-blue-hawaiian\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">helicopter ride in Maui<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">? Do you prefer a fancy spa treatment or a night out at the opera? It\u2019s wise to pick and choose a few things you know you can\u2019t live without, and try and cut corners in other areas.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For example, we sometimes stay at airport hotels if we\u2019re arriving late into our destination, which saves us money as they are typically less expensive than hotels in downtown. The next morning we check into the more expensive hotel, but have already saved a bunch of money by spending a night at the less expensive hotel, without impacting our travel plans at all!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image wp-image-16683 size-large is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"563\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/Bali-itinerary-ubud-10-750x563.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/Bali-itinerary-ubud-10-750x563.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/Bali-itinerary-ubud-10-533x400.jpg 533w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/Bali-itinerary-ubud-10-166x126.jpg 166w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/Bali-itinerary-ubud-10-850x638.jpg 850w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/Bali-itinerary-ubud-10.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>ballin&#8217; on a budget in Bali<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Make sure to think about transportation costs too, as these can vary greatly depending on where you\u2019re going. I\u2019m not talking about transportation to your first destination, but how you\u2019ll actually get around once you&#8217;re there. You can get anywhere in NYC for $2.75 (which I miss greatly), but if you wanna take day trips outta the city it\u2019s a whole other ball game. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Think about if you\u2019ll be traveling to different cities\/places during your trip &#8211; be sure to account for a car rental, trains, buses, public transit, Uber, taxis, domestic flights, etc.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">*** Always overestimate the cost of travel. There are lots of unexpected and unforeseen costs involved (unfortunately).&nbsp; It\u2019s always best to over over prepared, especially when it comes to finances!!! And if you don\u2019t use all the money you save, you can always allocate the funds to your next trip. Boom!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">And once you\u2019ve figured all this out, you can set a rough budget for yourself. I say rough, because things are gonna change. Travel can be wildly unpredictable (especially if you haven\u2019t done enough research).<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Step 6: SAVE, SAVE, SAVE!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Time to get saving, my soon-to-be world-traveling friends. Because, well, hate to break it to ya, but you need a large chunk of change to pay for all your fun. You don\u2019t need to save up enough cash for your entire trip all at once, but make sure you have a plan as to how you\u2019ll do so before your trip arrives. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As you\u2019re booking flights, hotels, activities, and as other trip-related expenses come up, you\u2019ll want to have a sufficient amount of money to cover these things straight away. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">NEVER go into credit card debt to travel. Just please don\u2019t. Wait an extra few months\/year to travel if you need to. The world ain\u2019t going anywhere, but the credit card companies will charge you a hell of a beast of interest, that\u2019s for sure.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-5879 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"499\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/antigua-guatemala-37-750x499.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5879\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/antigua-guatemala-37-750x499.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/antigua-guatemala-37-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/antigua-guatemala-37-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/antigua-guatemala-37-850x566.jpg 850w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/11\/antigua-guatemala-37.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>exploring the colorful streets of <a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/week-in-guatemala\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Antigua, Guatemala<\/a>, or getting Taco Bell everyday? You decide.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To make your finances black and white, write down all the things you spend money on each month (rent\/mortgage, car payment\/insurance, groceries, gym memberships, etc). Then look at your credit card and write down all the miscellaneous stuff. You may be surprised to see that you\u2019ve spent ~300\/month on coffees or ~$80\/month on that pilates membership you haven\u2019t used since February. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">See if you can split the cost of Amazon Prime\/Spotify\/Netflix with a friend\/family member, as even saving an extra $40 per month can get you a few nights in some places.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Think about ways you can slightly alter your everyday life to save for your trip. Every time you forgo that expensive morning latte or night out at the club\/bar, you\u2019re a few dollars closer to your dream trip. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your friends don\u2019t understand? Get new friends. Haha &#8211; but really, explain to them that a night out can cost as much as entry to the Vatican or a few days bumming around in Belize.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get rid of those weekly\/monthly subscription boxes, make your morning coffee at home, and save dinners out for special occasions. There are a billion ways to save money, you just gotta be creative sometimes.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">And if you\u2019re lucky, you\u2019ll already have some extra cash lying around to plan your trip- but just remember, never take money out of your emergency fund to go off traveling. Set up a different bank account, with the sole purpose being money saved for travel.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Step 7: Apply for a no-fee ATM card<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">And since we\u2019re talking cash, now\u2019s the time to apply for a no-fee ATM card.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you want to avoid those pesky ATM fees every time you take out cash while away, simply look into a no-fee debit\/ATM card, such as one through Charles Schwab (which I have and love). You can use the card at any ATM in the world, and Schwab will reimburse you all the ATM fees at the end of the month. Pretty neat, right? <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s by far the best debit card for traveling Americans. We transfer some money into our Schwab account before a trip, and use that as our spending money (do note that it takes a few days for money to transfer between banks, so do this a few days before jetting off).<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.schwab.com\/public\/schwab\/banking_lending\/checking_account\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">More info on Charles Schwab here.<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-4496 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/DSC_0397-750x500.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4496\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/DSC_0397-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/DSC_0397-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/DSC_0397-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/DSC_0397-850x566.jpg 850w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>climbing active volcanoes or giving all your money to the foreign banks? Again, you decide.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ATM fees quickly add up, with many banks charging around $5 or so per transaction. When traveling, I don\u2019t like to keep a whole lotta cash on me at hand, so rely on local ATMs to take out small amounts when need be. Why shell out money when you don&#8217;t have to, right?<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Step 8: Apply for a travel rewards credit card<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not all credit cards are created equal. I repeat. Not all credit cards are created equal. If you plan on traveling quite a bit (or even just once), it\u2019s wise to look into a travel rewards credit card for the bonus miles and perks that come along with it.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are many to choose from, including more general travel cards as well as airline\/hotel\/brand specific.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We currently use and love the Chase Sapphire Reserve\u00ae, which not only gives us $300 a year statement credit for travel, but grants us access into Priority Pass airport lounges worldwide, provides free auto insurance when renting cars, lost luggage reimbursement, and even a concierge service, (and oh so much more). <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don\u2019t let the $450 annual fee scare you; it\u2019s actually only $150 once you spend $300 on travel. Chase typically has great promotions, so be on the lookout for ones providing ~50k+ bonus miles (good for a roundtrip flight to almost anywhere in the world). There\u2019s also the Chase Sapphire, which still comes with heaps of benefits, but you don\u2019t get lounge access and other perks.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-7353 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/bora-bora-9-750x500.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7353\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/bora-bora-9-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/bora-bora-9-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/bora-bora-9-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/bora-bora-9-850x567.jpg 850w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>that time we flew all the way to French Polynesia for FREE with air miles!<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition, we also use an airline specific credit card, the Delta American Express, since my husband\u2019s airline of choice is Delta. Whenever we book Delta flights using this card, we get extra bonus miles, which we can put to use for future free flights. I wouldn\u2019t recommend only traveling with AMEX though, as many places around the world only take VISA\/Mastercard. Hence our need for both.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other recommended cards include Capital One\u00ae Venture\u00ae Rewards Credit Card, The Platinum Card\u00ae from American Express, and the Chase Ink Business Preferred Card.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When looking for a travel credit card to apply for, check to make sure it has no international ATM withdrawal fees, no currency conversion fees, and reward points for travel (airlines\/hotels\/cars\/etc).<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">And just FYI, Travelers Checks are kiiiinda a thing of the past, so be sure to have a credit card ok for international use.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Step 9: Book Flights<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Booking flights is one of the most nerve-wracking parts of the travel planning process for me. And why? Because not only do flight prices fluctuate daily, but once you book, you only have 24 hours to cancel (as long as you\u2019re booking from the USA). I find it incredibly intimidating, especially because I\u2019m always trying to get the best possible price. And all those options! So confusing!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I rely on <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/skyscanner\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Skyscanner<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/flights\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Flights<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> when looking for the cheapest possible flights, and sometimes also look on <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.kiwi.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kiwi<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. I tend to sway towards Skyscanner the most because it allows you to search an entire month (or time of year) to find the absolute cheapest flight available.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-16913 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"563\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/komodo-tour-1-750x563.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16913\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/komodo-tour-1-750x563.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/komodo-tour-1-533x400.jpg 533w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/komodo-tour-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/komodo-tour-1-166x126.jpg 166w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/komodo-tour-1-850x638.jpg 850w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/komodo-tour-1.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>can&#8217;t all airplane views be this incredible?<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If I ever purchase a flight through a third-party, I make sure to call the airline and confirm my reservation number.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, 99.99% of the time I book directly through the airlines themselves. Once you find a good deal on Skyscanner or Google Flights, go directly to the airline website to book the flight. And don\u2019t forget to input any airline numbers you are a partner of to rack up those skymiles for later use!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\"><p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2192 <\/span><\/i><em><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Psst<\/span><\/em><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2013 check out <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/skyscanner\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Skyscanner<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and set up price alerts to snag the best deal.<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, always be sure to check low-cost airlines, as they are not always included in third-party sites.&nbsp; A good list can be found <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_low-cost_airlines\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Southwest and Frontier Air are good options in the USA.&nbsp; More tips on<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/2013\/07\/how-to-get-cheaper-airfare-every-time-guaranteed\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> getting the best price on airfare here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don\u2019t be that person who paid the most on a flight \u2192 be flexible, use miles if you can, and sign up for email notifications (I like to use Skyscanner and Google Flights for this). If you\u2019re a bit more flexible with your destination, make sure to sign up for Scott\u2019s Cheap Flights and The Flight Deal, as you\u2019ll receive insane flight deals. The more flexibility you have, the better your chances of scoring a great price. Be willing to fly midweek and off-hours, at the least, if you can.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Search for low airfares and hit BUY when you feel comfortable (don\u2019t wait as flight prices can drastically change within hours)! Here are some <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/how-to-get-cheap-flights\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">additional tips on finding cheap airfare<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">! I\u2019m a serial advanced planner when it comes to expensive, long-haul flights, but some of my friends score good deals by waiting until a month or two before. It all depends on your comfort level.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before booking, you&#8217;ll want to have a general idea of your travel route, as this may impact your flights. Will you be flying into one city and out of another? Are you booking a round trip ticket?&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-6000 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/07\/how-to-get-cheap-flights-6-750x500.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/07\/how-to-get-cheap-flights-6-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/07\/how-to-get-cheap-flights-6-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/07\/how-to-get-cheap-flights-6-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/07\/how-to-get-cheap-flights-6-850x566.jpg 850w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>always choose the window seat&#8230;<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>An important note on Passports<\/strong><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>:<\/strong> Traveling internationally? Can\u2019t leave the country without a valid passport, am I right?! Many countries require at least 6 remaining months on passports before you leave or in order to even enter the country. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you need to order a new passport, you can check out <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.usa.gov\/passport\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">this passport guide<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for help, and if you\u2019re traveling within 6-8 weeks (amount of time it usually takes to process passports), you\u2019ll need to get an <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/passports\/get-fast.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">expedited passport<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> which you\u2019ll receive in approximately 3 weeks for an extra $60. Well worth the money if you find yourself in a pinch and desperately need that passport ASAP.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Step 10: Book Hotels\/Accommodations<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I like to book hotels relatively early on in my planning process. Why? If you\u2019re traveling during high season (which happens to be me more often than not), there\u2019s a chance your desired hotels could be all booked up! We tend to book hotels that we can cancel, just in case our travel itinerary changes or we find accommodation that suits us better. Most of the time refundable rooms cost a bit more, so just something to keep in mind.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When searching for rooms, I typically do a quick check on <a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/hotelscombined\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">HotelsCombined<\/a>, since they find the best price by checking dozens of booking sites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2192 <\/span><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/hotelscombined\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Search for the best hotel prices on HotelsCombined&nbsp;<\/a><\/strong><\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When booking accommodation, think about how far the hotel\/apartment is from the city center and the activities you want to do. Sometimes, booking a hotel that\u2019s way cheaper will end up costing more than a slightly-more-expensive hotel if you need to shell out extra dough to get yourself places.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Think about how much time you\u2019ll be spending in the hotel. If you\u2019re planning to be out and about all day, why book a fancy room when all you\u2019ll be doing is sleeping and showering there?<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We book over-the-top resorts\/hotels when we know for a fact that we&#8217;ll be able to enjoy all the amenities. Like that time in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/10-day-bali-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bali<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> we stayed at a resort with our own private pool, lush jungle views, and multiple infinity pools. But we were planning on spending an entire day taking advantage of the hotel so it made sense. In <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/3-days-in-tokyo-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tokyo<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> when we\u2019re out stuffing our faces all day? Not so much.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-16648 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"563\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/Bali-itinerary-seminyak-2-750x563.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16648\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/Bali-itinerary-seminyak-2-750x563.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/Bali-itinerary-seminyak-2-533x400.jpg 533w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/Bali-itinerary-seminyak-2-166x126.jpg 166w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/Bali-itinerary-seminyak-2-850x638.jpg 850w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/Bali-itinerary-seminyak-2.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>um, yes please!<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A few additional places we look for accommodation:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hoteltonight.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Hotel Tonight<\/a><\/strong><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>:<\/strong> My go-to for last minute deals.&nbsp; Think road-tripping and spontaneous weekend trips.&nbsp; We once paid $23 for a (really nice) hotel in Reno, Nevada.&nbsp; You can now check and book up to seven days in advance. Top tip: download the app in advance in case you\u2019re stuck without wifi for a bit.&nbsp; Use my promo code <\/span><em><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">JKLEINER<\/span><\/em><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for a free $25 towards your first booking.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/airbnb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">AirBnB<\/a><\/strong><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>:<\/strong> In some cases, we find ourselves wanting a more local experience, so we look to AirBnB for an apartment or condo. With AirBnB, you can rent out private rooms, entire apartments, and even full houses! We\u2019ve had some fantastic experiences and wonderful hosts, and saved a ton of money!&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/airbnb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Save an additional $40 off your first stay here<\/a>! <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">My number 1 tip: heavily research where you are staying \u2013 read all the reviews and make sure the property owner is readily available to contact. Always check the cancellation policy.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2192 <strong>New to AirBnB? We\u2019re giving you a <\/strong><\/span><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/airbnb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">coupon of $40 off your first stay of $75 or more<\/a>!<\/strong><\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.expedia.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Expedia<\/a><\/strong><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>:<\/strong> So great for package deals, as you can literally saves 100\u2019s by purchasing flight and hotel together.&nbsp; Plus, with their rewards program, you can store your points for even greater savings down the line.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Step 11: Get Vaccinated\/Medications if Needed<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s always wise to schedule a travel appointment with your doctor so you can decide what\u2019s best when it comes to vaccinations and precautionary medications with trained medical staff. In addition, I always check the <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/cdc.gov\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">CDC website<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for recommendations on the such. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some are more standard vaccines you can get with your primary care doctor, but others (like Yellow Fever for our upcoming trip to Africa), you\u2019ll need to arrange for in advance.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-16452 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/bocas-del-toro-panama-175-750x500.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16452\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/bocas-del-toro-panama-175-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/bocas-del-toro-panama-175-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/bocas-del-toro-panama-175-850x567.jpg 850w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/bocas-del-toro-panama-175-272x182.jpg 272w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/bocas-del-toro-panama-175.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>good thing we had our shots while walking through the jungle in <a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/things-to-do-in-panama-vacation-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Panama<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s wise to know which vaccines you\u2019ll need early-ish on in the travel planning process, as some need to be specifically ordered and other vaccinations you\u2019ll need multiple, specifically timed spaced-out appointments. Some vaccines are only recommended if you\u2019re visiting particular parts of a country, so don\u2019t feel like you need to get them all if you aren\u2019t even visiting the infected areas. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition, research if you need to show proof of vaccines upon arrival into a particular country (they may not let you in without the proper documentation). Ack!&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s also a wise time to talk to your doctor about any medications (like Malaria pills we took in Thailand and Bali) you may want to bring along.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Step 12: Decide on WiFi\/cell service<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Some like to be away from it all and go wifi-free, while others will feel more safe and secure knowing they can use their phones. It all comes down to personal preference. I rely on my phone way too much to go completely data-free, so always make sure I have a set plan in place before leaving on any international trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Personal Wifi Hotspot<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Although you will most likely have wifi at your accommodation, it\u2019s a good idea to bring along a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/tep-wireless\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">pocket-sized personal WiFi hotspot<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, to keep you connected during your time abroad. WiFi hotspots are a cost effective option to ensure you can use GPS apps like Google Maps, check your emails, and catch up with friends and family while away. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/tep-wireless\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">this portable device<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, you\u2019ll have WiFi wherever you go (even if your phone doesn\u2019t have service), unlimited internet (on up to five devices at a time!!!), and it\u2019s fast and reliable. At less than $9 a day, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/tep-wireless\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">this device<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can\u2019t really be beat.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Note that some cell phone plans allow for international use, but many of these are costly. I accidentally turned on my phone service for LESS THAN 2 MINUTES once and got charged $150 by my phone carrier! I desperately wished I had a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/tep-wireless\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">personal WiFi hotspot<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with me then!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/tep-wireless\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find more information and plan options here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED especially when you don\u2019t speak the native language of the country you\u2019re visiting. A true life saver.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-8860 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/piazza-navona-750x500.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8860\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/piazza-navona-750x500.jpeg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/piazza-navona-600x400.jpeg 600w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/piazza-navona-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/piazza-navona-850x567.jpeg 850w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>without cell service we probably wouldn&#8217;t have made it to this square in the middle of Rome<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other Options<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other options include bringing along an unlocked phone so you can use local SIM cards, and looking for plans which include international data.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re thinking about doing a bunch of international travel over the next few years, it may be worth switching to T-Mobile if the service is decent in your home area. My husband and I currently use T-Mobile, and get access to free data in over 210 countries (excluding the one country I was charged an obscene amount of money in &#8211; but that was my fault).<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some teched-out cities even have free wifi throughout the city &#8211; need to check beforehand (don\u2019t count on this as it\u2019s a relatively new thing, and I wouldn\u2019t rely on the free wifi in case an emergency occurs).<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Psst: I always bring a <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/amzn.to\/1PkV1Ut\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">portable battery charger<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to recharge throughout the day since I rely on my phone heavily for directions!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Step 13: Research + Map Out Activities\/Restaurants<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ohhhh, this is where it gets really fun in my eyes. Activities are the bulk of your trip, and probably the main reason you\u2019re visiting the area (besides the food, of course).<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Here\u2019s how I like to do it:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>1. First, I do some research on things to do in the area<\/strong> (this includes food tours, beaches, museums, popular attractions, hikes, etc), day trips which peak my interest, and anything else I find exciting on <a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/getyourguide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Get Your Guide<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.partner.viator.com\/en\/23841\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Viator<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/airbnb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">AirBnB Experiences<\/a> (use <a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/airbnb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">this promo code<\/a> for $15 off your first AirBnB experience).&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I\u2019m a BIG FAN of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/getyourguide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get Your Guide<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.partner.viator.com\/en\/23841\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Viator<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> when it comes to perusing activities and signing up for tours (they have SO many options). I\u2019ve been using both of these sites for years, and can honestly say 99% of the time the tours are downright AWESOME and a good bang for your buck. I like to plan in advance (sometimes too far in advance), and being able to book specific activities (with the ability to cancel if need be) is something I love about Get Your Guide and Viator.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-8882 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/vatican-city-6-750x500.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-8882\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/vatican-city-6-750x500.jpeg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/vatican-city-6-600x400.jpeg 600w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/vatican-city-6-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/vatican-city-6-850x567.jpeg 850w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>without buying skip-the-line tickets in advance, we would have been waiting ages just to get in (<a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/rome-in-three-days\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Vatican<\/a>)<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I recently started using <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/airbnb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">AirBnB Experiences<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, as they offer some more local-type experiences, such as cooking classes in chef\u2019s homes (I learned how to make macarons in Paris this way!), photography sessions, and more niche city walks.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I also like to use travel blogs from those writers I trust (not all travel bloggers have the same credibility unfortunately, so if something sounds odd\/wacky, I do further research\/cross reference facts). In order to do this, I usually google&nbsp; destination + \u201cblog\u201d, and pick them out one by one in the search results. You tend to get additional tips and insights you normally wouldn\u2019t have on other large-party sites.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image wp-image-15554 size-large is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/mostar-bosnia-8-750x500.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-15554\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/mostar-bosnia-8-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/mostar-bosnia-8-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/mostar-bosnia-8-850x567.jpg 850w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/mostar-bosnia-8-272x182.jpg 272w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/12\/mostar-bosnia-8.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>found this view of <a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/dubrovnik-to-mostar-day-trip-bosnia\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Mostar<\/a> after doing a bit of research beforehand<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Depending on the destination, I\u2019ll peruse <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/amzn.to\/1NPSKwn\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lonely Planet<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for even more must-do\u2019s. I used to rely on TripAdvisor, but after I learned that many reviews are fake\/bought, I stopped using them entirely.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>2. Plot each \u201cattraction\/museum\/beach\/restaurant\u201d on a map<\/strong> \u2192 I\u2019ve been using Google Maps lately and love it! If you prefer to use paper maps, get a large one so you can easily see all the spots! But why waste paper and money?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>3. Look at the map, and take note as to where these activities fall.<\/strong> I then separate the activities into different areas. This helps figure out which attractions you should see together on a particular day. You don\u2019t wanna be running back and forth across the city\/town\/destination out of <del>stupidity<\/del> silliness. Group attractions together that are in the same proximity\/close distance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>4. Think about how much time each activity will take.<\/strong> Some attractions will only take a few minutes, while others you may want to devote entire hours. Don\u2019t aim to see a whole bunch of super-intensive things in the same day; try and space them out if you can.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-16764 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/barcelona-191-750x500.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16764\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/barcelona-191-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/barcelona-191-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/barcelona-191-850x567.jpg 850w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/barcelona-191-272x182.jpg 272w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>don&#8217;t skimp out on time at the Sagrada Familia in <a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/barcelona-itinerary-3-days\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Barcelona<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>5. Star your top \u201cthings to do\u201d in each location.<\/strong> These are the things you\u2019ll aim to see on your trip, while the others will be extra bonuses. Because, lets face it, if you only have 3 days in Paris, you probably won\u2019t have time to see all 235232 museums.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At the end of this process, you should have a handful of main activities you wanna check out, as well as a bunch more less time-intensive ones, listed out by location\/proximity to each other.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Depending on the type of traveler you are, you may want to book a few guided tours of the city\/area you\u2019re visiting. When I travel (especially on my solo jaunts), I tend to book a few guided tours and day trips. I always meet a few chatty people and end up hanging with them the entire day! <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s also nice to have someone guide me around for a bit (solo travel gets exhausting). Guided day trips are great if you don\u2019t wanna worry about getting lost on public transport and\/or don\u2019t wanna rent a car.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Inspiration for Things to Do\/Tours\/Day Trips<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/getyourguide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get Your Guide&nbsp;<\/span><\/a><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.partner.viator.com\/en\/23841\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Viator<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/airbnb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Airbnb experiences<\/span><\/a><\/li><li>Travel Blogs (like <a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">mine<\/a>!)<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If there\u2019s a particular + popular restaurant\/dining experience your longing after, it\u2019s wise to make a reservation in advance. When we went to <a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/3-days-in-mexico-city-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Mexico City<\/a>, we had to book our table a few months ahead of time, and there still wasn\u2019t much availability!&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Step 14: Plan Your Day-to-Day Itinerary<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don\u2019t <em>overplan<\/em>, but definitely keep track of the tours you booked and other sites on your wishlist. I tend to make exceptionally long Google Docs (for easy access without wifi), and roughly plan out my days. This makes sure I don\u2019t forget what\u2019s going on each day; especially helpful if your trip consists of a few different towns\/cities\/etc. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I always put the date, day of week, and location in the left column, then details about my day in the right.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-16175 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/teotihuacan-mexico-city-26-750x500.jpg\" alt=\"Planning your trip and looking for the best Mexico City itinerary?! Whether you\u2019ve got a full week or just 3 days in Mexico City, you can be sure you\u2019ll never be left bored.\" class=\"wp-image-16175\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/teotihuacan-mexico-city-26-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/teotihuacan-mexico-city-26-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/teotihuacan-mexico-city-26-850x567.jpg 850w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/teotihuacan-mexico-city-26-272x182.jpg 272w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/teotihuacan-mexico-city-26.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>lots of advance planning to figure out how we could cram in the pyramids to our 3 days in CDMX<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some tours are only offered on certain days, so you may need to play around with your day-to-day itinerary until it works out.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The example below (a random few days during my <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/2-weeks-in-croatia-itinerary-for-first-time-visitors\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">two weeks in Croatia<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) is not as crazily detailed as my normal ones, but you get the picture:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"645\" height=\"489\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/how-to-plan-a-trip-itinerary.png\" alt=\"how to plan a trip itinerary\" class=\"wp-image-17050\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/how-to-plan-a-trip-itinerary.png 645w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/how-to-plan-a-trip-itinerary-528x400.png 528w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/how-to-plan-a-trip-itinerary-166x126.png 166w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 645px) 100vw, 645px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once the itinerary is all set, I then go ahead and book all tours and skip-the-line tickets for popular attractions (imagine not booking a ticket in advance for Frida Khalo\u2019s House in Mexico City, the Louvre in Paris, or the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona). Don\u2019t waste your time waiting in line. Spend <a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/getyourguide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">3 minutes booking your tickets now<\/a> and you\u2019ll be thanking yourself later on during your trip.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Step 15: Book a Car Rental (if need be)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heading off on a road trip (one of my favorite types of trips)? Don\u2019t forget to book a car rental for the duration of your stay!&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In order to save some money, think about if you\u2019ll actually <em>need<\/em> the car for your entire trip. Are you staying put in your first destination for a few days? Can you get around on foot or inexpensive public transport? Will you really need a car then? Book the car rental for the night before\/morning of your first real road trip day.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2192 Search for the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/rental-cars\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">cheapest car rentals over here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">!<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-15010 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/big-sur-edited-71-750x500.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-15010\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/big-sur-edited-71-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/big-sur-edited-71-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/big-sur-edited-71-850x567.jpg 850w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/big-sur-edited-71-272x182.jpg 272w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>road trips to <a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/big-sur-road-trip-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Big Sur<\/a> are my favorite kinda road trip<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">And if you\u2019re primarily visiting one city and doing a few day trips, can you move all your day trips to the beginning\/end of your trip to only book the car for 3 days, instead of say 7? It\u2019s silly to pay for an extra day if the car will just sit there all day. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">But always check how much a weekly car will cost &#8211; sometimes there are deals, and a rental may end up being cheaper in total if you book for longer (crazy, huh?)! It\u2019s wise to think about parking fees and such before getting too excited though.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Additional Reading: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/long-road-trip-checklist-tips-and-tricks\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Tips and Tricks for your Next Roadtrip<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Step 16: Buy travel insurance<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Confession time:\u00a0 I was always that girl who never really understood the value of travel insurance.\u00a0 Honestly, I thought it was a complete waste of money. After checking out the highly recommended <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/safetywing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Safety Wing<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, I finally came to the realization that it really is worth the (small) extra cost, and it\u2019s just plain stupid to travel without.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Safety Wing is not just for medical insurance, but also helps when luggage is lost, you need to cancel a trip, or when your gear is stolen or damaged when traveling.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image wp-image-14853 size-large is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/pulpit-rock-hike-Norway-750x500.jpg\" alt=\"Norway Road Trip Itinerary: All the stops you'll want to make if you've got 10 days in Norway!\" class=\"wp-image-14853\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/pulpit-rock-hike-Norway-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/pulpit-rock-hike-Norway-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/pulpit-rock-hike-Norway-850x567.jpg 850w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/pulpit-rock-hike-Norway-272x182.jpg 272w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/pulpit-rock-hike-Norway.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>these views are beautiful, but that sure is a long ways down&#8230; AH (<a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/preikestolen-hike-from-stavanger-norway\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Norway<\/a>)<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Even better, you can purchase at home or overseas (while already traveling) &amp; make claims online from anywhere in the world. There&#8217;s really no excuse, especially since the insurance only costs a few dollars a day. You&#8217;ll be kicking yourself mid-trip if something goes wrong and you&#8217;ve got to pay tons out of pocket.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">They say if you can\u2019t afford travel insurance, you can\u2019t afford to travel.\u00a0 Now I won\u2019t travel without it. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/safetywing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get a FREE quote<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Planning a trip abroad? Just get the insurance. <em>No excuses.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Step 17: Before you go action items<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Thought you were done? So close, just a few more things to do when planning a trip! These last-minute items can literally be done in the few days leading up to your trip. Some only take a minute, but are oh-so-important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><b>Tell your credit card companies you\u2019re traveling <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(you don\u2019t want any cards to get denied because of suspected fraud\/theft)<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><b>Arrange for pets to be watched<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and plants to be watered.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><b>Get familiar with currency rates. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">They obviously vary from country to country, and can sometimes be as easy as moving the decimal point a few spots, or as confusing as dividing everything by 7.3. Download a currency converter for your phone for easy conversions on the road (I like Currency XE).<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><b>Learn a few important words\/phrases<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in the local language. I find Duolingo quite fun!<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><b>Do some research <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">on safety, common scams, and any areas to avoid in the destinations you\u2019re visiting. It\u2019s also wise to check out any cultural norms\/basic manners in your destination.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><b>Let friends and family know you\u2019re traveling.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Be safe &#8211; someone at home should always know exactly where you are, especially if you\u2019re traveling solo.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><b>Transfer money into Schwab account:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> remember, this takes a few days, so be sure to transfer as much cash as you think you\u2019ll need for the beginning of your trip. I like to make it easy and just do one bulk transfer before we leave. Remember, using Schwab saves you all those precious ATM fees!<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-15121 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/hong-kong-5-750x500.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-15121\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/hong-kong-5-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/hong-kong-5-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/hong-kong-5-850x567.jpg 850w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/hong-kong-5-272x182.jpg 272w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/hong-kong-5.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>there&#8217;s no way I could have paid with credit for this street food (<a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/hong-kong-itinerary-3-days\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Hong Kong<\/a>)<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><b>Buy necessary items:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Depending on where you\u2019re going, you may need to pack something specific. Traveling internationally? You\u2019ll most likely need a plug adaptor (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/31p0Yd9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">this one works in all countries<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) and possibly a converter for voltage. You\u2019ll probably wanna pack a wide-brimmed hat and reef-safe sunscreen for warm-weather destinations. A sarong to cover up with for visiting temples in Asia.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><b>Scan\/take photos of your travel documents.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> In the chance that something happens to originals, you\u2019ll at least have an electronic version.&nbsp; I upload my documents to the cloud (I like to use Dropbox), and they\u2019re also stored in my camera roll on my phone for even easier access.&nbsp; Do this for:<\/span> <ul><li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Passports<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Credit cards you are bringing<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Travel insurance documents<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rough itinerary<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Flight\/Hotel\/Activity reservations&nbsp;<\/span> <\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I also like to print out a copy (or 2) of my passport and keep in a separate place. If I\u2019m keeping my passport in my purse with me, I also put a copy in my suitcase\/husband\u2019s carryon just in case.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-4331 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/DSC_0069_2-750x500.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4331\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/DSC_0069_2-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/DSC_0069_2-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/DSC_0069_2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/DSC_0069_2-850x566.jpg 850w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>on my first solo trip ever (<a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/things-to-do-in-seattle\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Seattle<\/a>)&#8230; I would have freaked the F out if I got off the plane and had no clue where to go<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><b>A REALLY IMPORTANT EXTRA TIP: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Figure out how you\u2019ll get to your accommodation\/into the city from the airport before you take off. The last thing you wanna do when you\u2019re completely drained from sitting on the plane for 10 hours (with potential jet lag) is to figure out how to get to your first stop. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Be kind to yourself and at least write it down (on your handy-dandy Google Doc) beforehand. Consider the time you\u2019re arriving, as public transport may not work all hours of the night.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Step 18: Start Packing!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Phew &#8211; so close! I suggest starting to take things out a few days before your trip so you don\u2019t forget anything important. Make sure you\u2019ve got your passport, additional form of ID, copies of credit cards and other documents, and your itinerary. You\u2019ll also want to check the plug\/socket type and make sure you have one\/a few which fit.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-large wp-image-16914 is-style-default\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"750\" height=\"421\" src=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/komodo-drone-7-750x421.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-16914\" srcset=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/komodo-drone-7-750x421.jpg 750w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/komodo-drone-7-600x337.jpg 600w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/komodo-drone-7-850x478.jpg 850w, https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/komodo-drone-7.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption>no way I was gonna forget a bikini for these waters &lt;3<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A few of my top packing tips:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><b>Know your airline\u2019s baggage fee policy.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Don\u2019t wanna show up at the airport expecting to get 2 huge suitcases for free and end up having to pay $$$ for them. A great list can be found <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tripadvisor.com\/AirlineFees\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, but it\u2019s always wise to triple check on the actual airline website.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><b>Pack light.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Most people take way more than they actually need. Think about the activities you planned earlier, and pack according to that. Put everything on your bed and take out half of the clothing you think you need (yes, half). Not only will this reduce potential fees at the airport, but it\u2019ll make it easier to get around with less baggage.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><b>Keep all your absolute essentials and one change of clothes in a carry-on.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Lost baggage happens; don\u2019t let it ruin your trip. Always keep medications and expensive electronics on your body, as well as a toothbrush!<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><b>Come prepared. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We always take along something for motion sickness, altitude sickness, stomach bugs (anti-diarrheal), and other general over-the-counter meds including fever-reducers, pain reliever (Tylenol or motrin), an antihistamine, and antibiotic ointment. Throw a bunch of band aids in your bag as well. You just never know what\u2019ll happen and if you\u2019ll have access to these quickly and easily on the road.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><b>Use packing cubes.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> I don\u2019t know how I managed to travel before packing cubes came into my life. They are oh so helpful for organization and to keep my bag from exploding. And if you haven\u2019t ordered packing cubes in time, you can always use large plastic bags. Better yet, roll your clothes into packing cubes and you\u2019ll be golden.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3><strong>Step 19: And you\u2019re off!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You did it! You planned your trip! Now go enjoy the fruits of your labor and have the time of your life! Just remember to stay safe and take lots of photos! Be sure to read <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/what-to-do-on-long-flights\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">how to stay entertained on long flights<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> before you leave so you\u2019re first 3, 7, or 10 hours of travel isn\u2019t a complete bore!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong>Hope this ridiculously detailed guide on how to plan a trip helped! Where are you hoping to travel soon?! Now, go help a friend plan a trip, pronto!<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Wondering how to plan a trip without all the headaches? Yeah, travel planning can be quite the doozy. It\u2019s time-consuming, overwhelming, and downright confusing; there\u2019s flights to book, currencies to convert, time to take off, and activities to plan. And that\u2019s not even considering all the getting around once you actually arrive! Don\u2019t let the<a class=\"more-link\" href=\"https:\/\/apassionandapassport.com\/how-to-plan-a-trip-planning\/\" rel=\"nofollow\">Continue Reading<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":16372,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":""},"categories":[35],"tags":[319],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v19.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>How to Plan a Trip like a Pro: Planning a Trip The Easy Way (Step by Step)<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Wondering how to plan a trip without major headaches? Planning a trip can seem like a daunting task! 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