You’ve finally decided to take a much-needed break, but now you’re lost and can’t figure out how to take the first steps toward relaxation. Never fear, we’ve got you covered with a few quick tips on how to get the most out of your vacation before you ever set foot on the beach.
Plan, prep, and pack are your three main ideas when getting ready to head out on your first real vacation. If you don’t execute any of these correctly, you’ll wind up more stressed than before you left.
Ready for a unique travel experience tailored to your needs and tastes? Connect with the travel experts at Yampu Tours to create the perfect personalized itinerary.
Plan
Of course, you’ve already decided where you want to go, but now you need to nail down where you’ll stay. If you are planning a trip without the assistance of travel experts like Yampu Tours (They will handle this for you to save you time and money!), start by looking at your budget and determining how much you can afford per night. When making this calculation, don’t forget to include hotel taxes, ranging from 5 percent to more than 15 percent, depending on where you stay. Check the arrival policy and plan to leave at least an hour before you need to ensure you’ll arrive in time for check-in if they don’t have a 24-hour front desk. Another helpful thing about booking with an experienced tour operator like Yampu Tours is that your private transfers will ensure that you will be taken care of and arrive in a timely manner. At the same time, your accommodations have already been arranged for you with the best rates in mind.
If you’re an entrepreneur, you’ll need to plan for being away from your business as well so that you can keep operations running smoothly. Zenbusiness recommends alerting your clients in advance that you’ll be away, keeping paper copies of important contacts in case your devices are lost, stolen, or damaged, and preparing your employees for your absence.
Prep
When it’s time to pack your bags, there are a few essentials you need to grab for the road, no matter where that may lead. Your camera, batteries, a spare memory card, weather-appropriate clothes, an extra pair of shoes, at least $50 in cash, and prescription medications are all a must. If you’re driving, you’ll also need to plan ahead for roadside emergencies and stops along the way. At least two weeks before departure, find a dog boarder who can care for your furry family members so you can relax. If you’re only going away overnight and your pet would rather kick back on his own sofa, you can hire a pet sitter to pay him a few friendly visits for bathroom breaks, food, and a quick walk around the neighborhood.
If you’re going to be away for an extended period, you’ll want to have the Post Office hold your mail. Alert your nearest neighbors that you’re leaving, and ask them to pay extra attention to your house until you return. (If you have a pet sitter stopping by, let them know the make and model of the vehicle they’ll be in.) Notify your alarm company that you won’t be around, and set timers on a few lights throughout the home. If possible, leave at least one vehicle in the driveway. Don’t forget to toss out perishable foods, such as milk and fruit, and take out the trash. During the summer, schedule a mowing and always ask a friend or family member to intercept packages that are scheduled to arrive while you’re away.
Pack
Once your home security and pets are taken care of, it’s time to think about what you need to take with you in addition to your meds and camera gear. If you’re going to the beach, plan for at least three swimsuits/trunks and a bottle of spray-on sunscreen. Ask your hotel or condo if they provide essentials: beach towels, toiletries, hairdryer, etc. If not, make sure to have these items in your bag. Mountain trips may require sturdy ankle-height boots and a first aid kit for hiking. When you’re going to spend time in the city, you may want to bring a neck wallet to keep your money and credit cards hidden.
One last piece of advice: clean your house before you leave. The last thing you’ll want to do when you come home is clean up week-old messes. (You’ll thank us for this tip when you return!)
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