We all dream of that one vacation, that trip of a lifetime, and finally we’ve saved what we think is enough money and have our tickets in hand, ordered early of course for that discounted price! For example, one of my best friends has been saving to go to the Galapagos Islands for years now so `she’s been using the Galapagos Travel Advisor, going to travel agents, and doing her research online to make sure she plans the best vacation possible.
But as the time draws nearer, we suddenly realize that we’ve not taken the time to plan what to bring, what to leave, and a million other little things we hadn’t thought of when booking our travel and accommodations. The actual key to staying organized when planning that trip is to start early enough to get everything done. However, if you are like the rest of us, you’ve only weeks to do and aren’t nearly ready. What to do? Here is a bit of advice.
First and Foremost Is Your Health
Before you take another step, do a solid inventory of your medications. Bear in mind that many of these prescription drugs you will not be able to get in other countries. Talk to your doctor to ensure that you have enough medication to see you through your trip, which may be lengthy, and then fill those prescriptions prior to embarking on that dream vacation you’ve been yearning for. If your medication is expensive normally, you might want to check out options for discount prescriptions online. Leave yourself enough time to do a thorough search and if at all possible, check out coupons for use at your local pharmacies.
What to Pack and What to Leave
What you bring along with you will be largely dictated by where you are going. If at all possible bring two (or more!) of everything from bathing suits to walking shoes. Do you plan to dine at award-winning bistros or go out for an evening at the opera in London? Formal attire should be carried along first because that is the most expensive to buy on the road. Casual attire is easy to find and affordable almost anywhere you go. Also, keep in mind that you will almost assuredly need to pay for excess baggage, so pack that which you can’t replace on the journey and leave behind the rest.
Seasonal Considerations
Finally, if you are traveling to a tropical paradise in the winter months here at home or to a ski resort at the height of summer where you are now, you might not be prepared for the variation in climates where you are headed. The Internet can be your best friend when it comes to planning a trip because you can get weather conditions in real time for literally every location around the globe. Check to make sure you are bringing the right type of clothing for the climate you will be staying in. It sounds like it should be common sense, but when it comes to taking that trip of a lifetime, all sense seems to fly out the door! Also, we have been seeing weird anomalies in global weather patterns, so stay informed of any ‘out of the ordinary’ temperatures and weather conditions where you will be staying.
What tips for staying organized when traveling do you have?
Again, the key to staying organized on that trip of a lifetime is to start planning well in advance. Learn what you can about the culture and the climate and be prepared for contingencies. Your health is of prime importance so plan well for any medications or medical devices you may need to carry along with you.
