8 Easy Steps to Plan a Trip

Planning for an international trip can be overwhelming and time-consuming. Although it should be something fun and positive, it can easily become a stressful task whether planning a short trip or a long one.

It's very easy to get confused in the beginning, especially when you haven't done something like this before.

A lot of information can be found on the internet but the question is where to start. So, here we've created a step-by-step travel planning guide on how to make a trip easier and less stressed.

How to Plan a Trip: Table of Contents

Step 1 - Choose your destination (where you want to go)
Step 2 - Decide the length of your trip
Step 3 - Research your travel costs
Step 4 - Book flight and accommodation for your trip
Step 5 - Plan and decide your trip itinerary
Step 6 - Cross-check your documents
Step 7 - Pack your stuff
Step 8 - Enjoy your trip

Step 1 - Choose your destination (where you want to go)

Finalise a destination where you are planning to travel. Think about the vacation you really want. Don't be like "I don't know, I just want to travel". This way, you won't be able to plan a trip that will really execute. So, pick a destination, as it will give you a definite goal. Make sure to choose a destination that fits your budget as well.

Step 2 - Decide the length of your trip

Before you jump to your cost research, decide the length of your trip. Once you've decided whether you want to go on a short trip (a few days) or a long one (a few weeks), it will become easy to figure out how much it is going to cost.

Step 3 - Research your travel costs

Do thorough research on the prices in your destination. Include the following in your cost research:

• Flight ticket
• Accommodation
• Getting around (by local transport or taxi)
• Sightseeing & attractions
• Places to eat & drink

This will provide you an estimate of how much money you'll need for your trip.

Step 4 - Book flight and accommodation for your trip

Search for online deals and packages for your chosen destination. Compare the price across various booking sites. And you can save money by booking in advance. Another tip to save money is to travel off-season.

Step 5 - Plan and decide your trip itinerary

Start with making a list of all the major places you would like to see. Plan your activities and calculate how much they cost. It will help you make any adjustments to your savings. Ask family & friends who have been there.

Use online resources like Travel blogs, Google, and Trip Advisor for ideas while planning your itinerary for your destination. But make sure your research is up-to-date. 

Step 6 - Cross-check your documents

Before you pack your bags, make sure to cross-check all your required documents. Mentioned below is the document checklist:

• Passport
• Visa (if applicable)
• Flight & accommodation tickets
• Travel insurance
• Travel vaccination proof (find out in advance if any immunizations are required for your destination and get vaccinated if mandatory)
• Credit Cards
• Driving License
• A few passport size photos

Please note: Take copies of your important documents.

Step 7 - Pack your stuff

Now it's time to pack your bag. The best thing to do here is to pack minimum because you can always buy the needful there. The more I travel, I realize we don’t need to pack a lot of stuff.

• Pack your clothes according to the weather at your destination place.
• Don't forget to add sunglasses, scarves, belts, and socks on your list.
• The most important toiletries to pack are:
• Toothbrush, toothpaste & floss
• Shampoo & conditioner
• Shower gel/soap & face wash
• Comb, hair ties & hairpins
• Towel
• Deodorant 
• Sunscreen, face lotion/gel & moisturizer
• Personal hygiene products
  (Some of the toiletries can be skipped if you are staying in a hotel.)
• Electronic items like mobile, chargers, laptop/iPad, camera & universal power adapter.
• A small medical kit including band-aids, eyedrops, earplugs, doctor-prescribed antibiotics, painkillers, and hand sanitizer.
• USB card reader and memory card.
• Keep your house keys safe with you.
• Download important mobile applications:
• Google Maps or Maps.Me (I prefer maps.me)
• Google Translate. 

Step 8 - Enjoy your trip

Now, the last step is to enjoy your trip and have fun. Take some photos, buy some souvenirs, and create amazing travel memories.

You're more likely to have a great vacation if you plan your trip with care. Now, start saving money for your trip and enjoy every single second of it.