I remember when I started planning my first trip around the world. I had no idea what I was doing. When I decided to quit my job and travel the world, I walked into a bookstore and bought Lonely Planet’s Southeast Asia on Shoestring. It made the trip seem more real, but it didn’t prepare me for planning a long world trip. Back then, there weren’t really travel blogs, guides, sharing economy websites, and apps like there are today. I was lost. I figured it out as I went, just hoping I didn’t miss anything.
Trip planning can be a daunting task. Where do you begin? What’s step one? What’s step two? What’s step three? It’s easy to get overwhelmed, especially when you haven’t done something like this before.
I’ve planned countless trips and vacations for over the years (for myself, friends, and even group tours) and I’ve developed an efficient checklist that ensures I don’t miss anything important (I like lists) during the trip planning process. I don’t want to get to my next destination and then realize I forgot something.
And neither do you!
There is a lot of information on this website (and even more information packed into my book), but one question that comes up frequently is, “Matt, how do I put this all together? How do I plan a trip?”
In a continuing effort to help you get out the door and into the world, I’ve created this step-by-step guide on how to plan a trip. It works for any kind of trip and no matter how long you’re going for! Just follow this checklist and you’ll be off in no time!
Table of Contents
- Step 1: Decide Where You Want To Go
- Step 2: Decide the Length of Your Trip
- Step 3: Research Your Costs
- Step 4: Start Saving Money
- Step 5: Get a Travels Rewards Credit Card
- Step 6: Switch to No-Fee ATM Cards
- Step 7: Stay Focused and Inspired
- Step 8: Check for Last-Minute Deals
- Step 9: Book Your Flight
- Step 10: Book Your Accommodation
- Step 11: Plan Your Activities
- Step 12: Sell Your Stuff
- Step 13: Automate Your Bills
- Step 14: Tell Your Card Companies You’re Traveling
- Step 15: Pack!
- Step 16: Buy Travel Insurance
- Step 17: Enjoy Your Trip
If you want to jump ahead, simply click on any of the links above.
How to Plan Your Next trip
Step 1: Decide Where You Want To Go
Defining where you want to go sets a goal to work toward. A lot of people talk vaguely about travel. They never say where they are going, just that they are going. Picking a destination is immensely important, as it gives you a definite goal. It’s a lot easier to mentally get behind “I am going to Paris” than “I’m going to Europe” or “I’m going somewhere.” Not only will your trip become more concrete for you and easier to commit to, but it will make planning easier as well…because you know what to work towards. Read More…
17 EASY STEPS FOR PLANNING YOUR NEXT TRIP by MATT
https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/planning-a-trip/
