Tips For Planning Your Next Trip

I have always loved planning my next trip. In my opinion it is one of the best parts! I find it helpful to do research beforehand to learn helpful things. I never plan each day out or plan an itinerary if I don't have to. I find it helpful to research excursions and activities you want to do and a few good restaurants and then find your way there! Here are a few tips on how I like to plan for my upcoming vacations.

1. Create a "saved list" on Google Maps. If you're able to use your phone at your destination, Google Maps is extremely helpful. Not only does it have directions for driving and walking, it also gives directions for public transportation. Before and during trips, I save places we want to go to a specific list for that destination. When we finally reach our destination, it is quick and easy to pull up directions.
   

2. Read all types of websites in addition to blogs I love reading travel blogs and find them extremely helpful. Everyone's travel experience is different, so there is lots to learn while reading blogs. Keep in mind someone may write about something they didn't like and you may have a completely different experience. Often times destinations will have their own website and social media pages that can be found with an easy Google search.
   

3. Use Instagram One of my favorite ways to find cool places to explore at our upcoming destination is using Instagram. In addition to having websites, most places have an Instagram page. Most of them are called "visit" along with the destination name. For example, "visitsavannah" is the Instagram page for Savannah, Georgia.
   

4. Talk to friends, family and people you meet on vacation Often times, you will know someone that has already been to the place you're going. Ask them for recommendations of food, things to do and the best places to stay. Also ask people you meet on vacation, chances are if they're traveling now, they might have already traveled to a destination you are planning in the future.
   

5. Create a Google doc for important info Loose planning is the best kind of planning, but there are a few things that are important to have. In case your phone does not work or the connection is poor, create a Google doc with all of the important info you will need. I always include the addresses of the hotel or airbnb we are staying at, flight numbers and times and any phone numbers we will need. You can download the document and save it or screenshot it and keep it in your photos for reference.
   

6. Watch movies and TV shows