Effortless Tips for Planning the Perfect Weekend Getaway
If you’re constantly stressed and craving fresh air, you may be due for a weekend getaway. Weekends are great opportunities to plan a trip, as you likely already have the time off (in a traditional work week) and you don’t have to spend extravagant amounts of money. In order to make the most of your weekend away, you’ll want to apply some effective planning strategies. If you’re stumped on where to go or what to pack, this is the guide for you.
Research Destination Options
Weekend trips usually aren’t meant for extensive travel times. You wouldn’t want to fly overseas in one weekend—your flight would be most of the trip! Learn about areas near you that you want to visit. They shouldn’t be more than a few hours’ drive at most, as you’ll have limited weekend time to explore your destination. Consider all of your travel partners’ wants and needs for the most successful choice. Be sure there’s something to do for everyone! Check the weather to come up with some climate-appropriate options, too.
Make a Budget
While weekend trips are casual, they’ll still cost money in gas, lodging (if applicable), and food. You can cut costs in many ways, like cooking your meals, sleeping in affordable accommodations, or limiting your shopping, but you’ll have the best time when you don’t have to worry about money. Consider making a budget to save up for weekend trips. Having a reserve set aside for travel fun will allow you to make the most of your experience while not worrying about affording your normal living expenses. Save a portion of each paycheck you receive and create a savings account or folder specifically for your travel. You’d be surprised at how much you can save up!
Plan Lodging in Advance
If you’re staying the night on your weekend trip, you’re going to want somewhere to sleep that isn’t your car. Nowadays, there are tons of lodging options at your fingertips, from RVs to vacation homes to luxury hotel rooms. Weigh all of your options carefully. You may find more value in an Airbnb or VRBO if you want a kitchenette or custom amenities. Hotels are more professional, standard options that have more availability and pricing tiers. If you enjoy visiting the same area each trip, you can consider a vacation home. Beachside condos or mountain park model cabins can provide a convenient way to enjoy your mini-trip regularly. A travel RV or camper is perfect for road trip enthusiasts who want a different view every night. Regardless of what you choose, book it in advance. You don’t want to be stuck with no vacancies the night you need it.
Check Reviews
Before choosing any hotel, restaurant, or service, you should definitely read reviews. You may not know a hotel has a pest control problem until you see pictures of roaches in the reviews. You can skip a case of terrible food poisoning if you check out reviews of a new restaurant first. Reviews can show you how well others have enjoyed experiences to help you make more informed decisions on where to go for your trip. Don’t go anywhere without doing some research so you know what you’re in for.
Pack Clothes for All Occasions
You’ll want to look nice on your trip, but you never know what can happen. Make sure you bring comfortable clothing that is appropriate for the weather in case of emergencies. If your car breaks down on a cold winter trip, you don’t want to be caught in chilly formalwear. You’ll also want to bring extra clothing in case you spill coffee on it or lose it. You can plan outfits to avoid overpacking, too. Don’t forget to prepare for downtime; bring comfortable loungewear and items to keep you entertained.
Consider a Flexible Itinerary
An itinerary can help you make the most of your trip, but there’s no need to stress over it. You can plan excursions for another time or shuffle your schedule if necessary. Flexibility is key, but you want to have an overarching plan to ensure you get as much done as you want to during your trip. When in Rome, you should have fun! An itinerary will help you make good use of your time—after all, time flies when you’re having fun!
Unplug Once in a While
Of course, you’ll want to document your trip with fun videos and photos, but don’t forget to unplug and enjoy the sights and company around you. Your trip will be the most memorable when you keep your phone out of reach and tune into your trip. Getting fresh air and spending time away from daily stresses is only beneficial if you sever the connection to your daily stresses once in a while.
Try New Food Opportunities
If you go to the same restaurant chains or eat the same dishes on your trip, you might be missing out. You can have a more memorable time when you try a new local restaurant or a dish you haven’t tried yet. Research what foods locals favor in the town you’re going to and give it a try. You can broaden your culinary horizons and learn something new about yourself. If you don’t like the new food you try, at least you had a fun experience!
Conclusion
Traveling is fun and a great way to destress, but don’t forget safety. Try to bring friends, family, or partners with you, especially at night. Avoid drinking alcohol alone in unfamiliar places, and limit yourself if you do. Make sure your phone is charged and on your person in case of emergencies. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from a trusted authority if you need directions or have trouble. A weekend getaway can be an exciting adventure, but planning and trying new things can help you make the most of it.