There is no known antidote for the travel bug’s bite! Nevertheless, one often needs to wait for that vacation season because of life and its twisted ways. Your long awaited and much needed break from the monotonous routine can go awfully awry if not planned well.

Here is a checklist that will help you be a ‘Smart Traveler’ and avoid all sorts of confusions, terrible headaches and chaos associated with planning vacations.

• Dream Destination

Picking a destination is extremely important as it gives you a definite goal and it’s not as easy as you think. Picking your destination without researching could turn your holiday from pure bliss to an awful nightmare. Safety of travelers should be the primary concern while picking your destination. Picking your destination according to the season is a key factor in planning a fabulous vacation.

• Trip Duration & Vacation Budget 

Have you ever regretted the way you spent when you returned home after a holiday? Ever wished you had some extra money and time to extend your trip to have a little more blast? All of us want to get the maximum value for the money we spend while traveling. Planning a budget-friendly vacation is better than running out of money halfway. “A good travel budget is one that is flexible” Make a realistic, flexible budget plan and spend your dimes consciously.

• Knowledge is Power

Do extensive research about your destination before preparing for the trip. Make sure to find and arrange the necessary documentation, vaccination, medical supplies, maps, basic language etc. You might need for your destination. Have a clear idea about the do’s and don’ts in the destination to avoid conflicts, run-ins with law and order or disrespect to the locals. It’s recommended to read up on customs, traditions, weather and socio-political situations. Thorough knowledge of your destination will help drawing up back-up plans in case of adversities.

• Practical Itinerary

Do not wait too long to book your tickets, especially if its flight. It’s better to book and confirm with your hotel before traveling. Check our blog on hotel etiquettes to make your stay a pleasant, hassle-free experience. Double-check everything one or two days prior to your trip in order to avoid any inconvenience in the last minute.

Prioritize the places you want to see and how much time you want to spend there. Check the availability of day-wise activities before going to the destination. It’s recommended to add some flexibility in your itinerary for sudden changes, exploration of new places and other interesting spontaneous plans.

• Pro-level Packing

Doing your research about the destination and having a clear idea about what items you cannot buy or be absolutely without is the key for packing like a pro. Never forget to carry a first aid kit, personal hygiene items, electronics, documents, make up, other extras.

• Be a Smart Traveler

Inform your credit card companies that you are traveling in order to avoid your card getting blocked when you make a transaction overseas. Keep your documentation in order while traveling. It is better to carry hard copies of important documents such as Visa and Passport wherever you go. Expand your vocabulary with basic greetings and enquiry questions, money terms. Locals are generally friendlier if you try and engage with them in their own language.

The new proverb goes like this, ‘Going on holiday can keep the doctor away’. So, stick to these tips and trust your planning, and you are ready to embark on an amazing adventure. Bon Voyage!