Planning a Vacation

Planning a vacation is one thing I just love to do! There are tons of different elements involved, like finding a great deal on a hotel, nailing down plane tickets, arranging for a rental car, planning activities for your trip, plus getting things at home ready for your absence. The more planning and lists, the better, if you ask me.

When I am planning a trip I start by making a list of what I need to do. Usually that list includes:

• Compare locations to determine best price
• Reserve a hotel room
• Buy airline tickets
• Get a rental car
• Plan activities and research local restaurants
• Write a packing list
• Secure airport transportation
• Ask a friend to water the plants and feed the cat
• Hold the mail and the newspapers or ask a friend to collect it
• Search the area for good deals, reviews on restaurants and things to do

I generally find that making a list really helps me to see the big picture and understand what needs to be done. From there, I can break down the tasks and accomplish a few at a time instead of being overwhelmed by doing everything at once. And the best part: crossing things off when I'm done.



One of my favorite parts of planning a trip is writing out my packing list. As I have mentioned at least 17 times, I love lists. This is one list I have an exceptional favor to. I have a generic list on my computer that has basic toiletries and necessities, but it seems that wherever I go and whatever season it is I always need different things. I would suggest that you make up a list of things to take with you, this way you will be certain to remember everything you need. Consider the outfits you will have to bring and double, triple check the weather before you go. Generally when I travel I plan around black or brown/navy and try to bring one pair of shoes that goes with all of the outfits I bring. That goes for purses and jackets, too.

Don't forget about what you're leaving at home while you're on vacation! Ask a friend to take care of your home, pets, mail and plants while you're away (don't forget to reciprocate when she goes out of town next!). Clean out the refrigerator of any perishables, take out the garbage before you depart, leave a clean house to come back to and turn off the coffee pot (toss out the filter, too!). Most people can't just up and leave, so be prepared.

For you parents, one thing not to forget is to plan things to do for your kids in the airport, on the airplane, in the car from the airport to the hotel, in the hotel, during the day, etc. Bring food. Lots of food. I suggest bringing a big backpack for each child with snacks, games, books, things to color on, and maybe even a portable DVD player to keep the kids busy. Keep them occupied and entertained and you will have a much better, stress-free vacation.