Planning a memorable vacation experience can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or embarking on your first trip, ensuring you cover all bases is essential for a smooth adventure. Here are ten tips to help you create the perfect vacation experience.

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1. Choose Your Type of Vacation

The foundation of a great vacation experience lies in choosing the right type of trip. Whether you’re craving a beach getaway, an adventurous road trip, or a cultural city break, selecting the right vacation style is crucial. Consider what activities and environments rejuvenate you most and tailor your trip to suit these desires.

I love truly immersive experiences. It doesn’t matter whether I am going to a popular destination or a country hardly anyone visits; I want to explore like a local! There are a few ways I do this, and they all usually start with a free walking tour or a food tour upon my arrival so that I can get the lay of the land, learn about the area, and befriend the local guide for the best tips and tricks!

I also love to travel solo, without much of a plan and take each day as it comes. But the type of travel I love the most is when I combine it all and bring along like-minded travellers who also want a truly immersive experience while giving back to the destination as we go.

If you are interested in Group Tours, why not check out where I’m off to next and join me on an adventure?

2. Plan Your Itinerary

While spontaneity has its perks, having a well-structured itinerary can enhance your vacation experience. Research the top attractions, local events, and hidden gems at your destination. Create a flexible schedule that balances relaxation and exploration, ensuring you make the most of your time away.

Now that I travel full-time, I plan a lot less, but when I was making the most of my limited annual leave days, I made sure I had a well-thought-out itinerary so I could make the most of the destinations I visited. I do have one tip for you, though! Make sure you allow time for spontaneity.

I’m a big fan of Viator when it comes to finding “things to do” in an area. Exploring an area on your own is fun, but having a knowledgeable guide who can bring a place alive is so much better. That’s why I always look for small group tours that promise to show me the “local way.”

3. Book Accommodations Early

Your accommodation plays a significant role in your vacation experience. From luxurious hotels to cosy Airbnb rentals, choosing the right place to stay can greatly impact your comfort and enjoyment. Book early to secure the best deals and locations, especially if you’re travelling during peak season.

I have been known to book at the last minute, which is why I probably ended up sleeping in a crack den once! OK, it wasn’t that bad! But it makes for a great story if you want to read about it. I have two default websites for finding accommodation: Airbnb and Booking.com.

When I travel for long periods of time solo, it is nice to stay in more communal spaces, but I feel a little too old for hostels. I have found Airbnb to hit the mark, especially when you get to stay in someone’s house and end up as part of the family! I had the most amazing nine weeks travelling the US, enjoying the best hospitality I have had anywhere.

For regular bookings though, I choose Booking.com as there is a real mix of properties on there with plenty of bargains to be had. With it being such a popular platform, it also means the properties have been reviewed, so you can book with confidence! The more you book with Booking.com, the greater the discount you get as well, so it pays to be loyal!

4. Make Sure You’re Insured

Travel insurance is a non-negotiable aspect of any successful vacation experience. It safeguards you against unexpected mishaps, such as accidents, illnesses, or lost luggage. Compare different policies to find one that covers your specific needs and provides peace of mind throughout your trip.

I have heard too many horror stories from people who tried to “save some money” by not taking out travel insurance and then seriously regretted their choices when things didn’t go to plan.

5. Budget for Your Break

Financial planning is key to a stress-free vacation experience. Create the ideal budget for your vacation that covers transportation, accommodations, meals, and activities. Remember to allocate some funds for souvenirs and unforeseen expenses. Sticking to your budget ensures you can enjoy your trip without financial worry.

I know Instagram loves telling us not to worry and that our money will return someday. Sadly, this “f#€k it, let’s have fun” mentality has led to a lot of misery for many people. I have met multiple people on my travels who now find themselves homeless and moneyless in a foreign country because they have taken that mentality too far.

But fear not. Having a budget doesn’t mean you need to be boring. It just means you can avoid the misery in the future! 

6. Pack Smart

Packing efficiently can make or break your vacation experience. Start with a checklist to ensure you don’t forget essentials. Consider the weather and cultural norms of your destination when selecting your wardrobe. Packing versatile clothing and travel-sized toiletries can save space and time. If you only ever live in the same two pairs of jeggings at home, what makes you think you are going to want 20 outfits when away?

I overpacked on my recent trip to South Africa and ended up with two checked bags (long story). It was not only a pain in the backside, but I also had to bribe many airport officials to do me “a deal” and allow me to check in the second bag!

7. Understand Local Customs

Immersing yourself in the local culture enriches your vacation experience. Take the time to learn about your destination’s customs, traditions, and etiquette. This will enhance your interactions with locals and show respect and appreciation for their way of life.

I love to learn a little bit of the language, and now I have a very long list of languages I can say “hello” in! But it is incredible how a simple hello in the local dialect (not just language) can make a huge difference. As a result, I have had so many amazing interactions, and whenever anyone asks me for a travel tip, “learning the language” is always the first one I mention!

8. Stay Connected

In today’s digital age, staying connected is crucial for a seamless vacation experience. Ensure you have a reliable internet connection for navigation, communication, and sharing your adventures. Consider purchasing a local SIM card or opt for an eSIM. I always used to get a local SIM card as they are cheaper, but I love being connected as soon as I land, so I have migrated over to eSIMs. There are a number of eSIMs available, but I always opt for Airalo as I find them easy to install. On the one occasion when I did have some issues, their customer service was superb.

9. Keep Health in Check

Your health is paramount to enjoying a fulfilling vacation experience. Research any necessary vaccinations or health precautions for your destination. Pack a basic first aid kit and any prescription medications you may need. Staying healthy allows you to fully enjoy all the experiences your trip has to offer.

If you are going somewhere a little off-the-beaten-path, I recommend visiting your physician for their expert advice. But for research purposes, I recommend visiting the Fit to Travel website.

10. Capture the Memories

Documenting your travels enhances your vacation experience by allowing you to relive the moments long after you’ve returned home. Invest in a good camera or a phone with a decent camera. I have no greater regret than not having taken photos of an experience, person, or location. Keeping a travel journal can also preserve your memories for years to come. But be careful! That’s how my blog started—just as a means to remember my experiences!

By following these ten tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating an unforgettable vacation experience. From choosing the right type of trip to capturing every moment, each step contributes to a seamless and enriching adventure. Start planning today, and get ready to explore the world with confidence and enthusiasm.

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Street Child is a UK-based charity working across 20 of the most challenging countries in the world, providing the most vulnerable children with access to education. I have taken on many challenges over the years to raise funds for Street Child, including running a marathon in 42 C heat in Sierra Leone, cycling 400KM from my home in the Cotswolds to the Netherlands, running a very hilly 50km Ultra Marathon in Madeira and tackling the arduous trek to Everest Base Camp (taking place November 2024).

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