Wondering how to go about organizing a vacation?

Need help planning a vacation and aren’t sure where to begin?

Let’s face it: planning a vacation is always a fun activity.

The anticipation, the dreaming, the longing for rest, relaxation, and doing absolutely nothing…

But sometimes the process can be filled with frustration because there’s a lot of moving parts.

The good news is that the vacation planning process remains the same, time and time again.

In this post, you’ll find eight steps to help you get you organized and on your way to a fantastic vacation.

Whether you’re visiting your yearly vacation spot or preparing for that dream vacation, you’ll be able to make your getaway in record time!

Step 1. Figure out where, when, and with whom.

The first step in planning your vacation involves a bit of thought and brainstorming.

You need to determine where, when, and with whom you’ll spend your vacation.

These are three very important trip decisions you need to make about your trip. The sooner you can figure these details, the better.

Will you travel domestically or internationally? How about spending your time at the beach, mountains, desert, or jungle?

Will you enjoy time in a busy bustling metropolis or enjoy the pleasures of a quiet and serene countryside?

Are you going to travel at the beginning, middle, or end of the year? Will you make your excursion in the winter, spring, summer, or fall?

Lastly, will you travel by yourself or with your significant other? How about extended family or a group of friends?

Step 2. Research everything about your destination.

This next vacation planning step can be a lot of fun!

Take charge and get your hands on everything related to your destination.

This includes everything, from getting to and from your vacation spot, to all the various local attractions, sights, exhibits, galleries, and experiences.

Read travel websites and blogs, browse magazines and guidebooks.

Talk to friends, family, and coworkers who have visited your proposed vacation destination to learn more and what to expect.

Step 3. Plan a budget.

Whether you are backpacking or staying in a luxurious hotel, a budget will let you enjoy your trip and enhance your after-vacation bliss.

Why? Well, most importantly you won’t arrive home to exorbitant credit card bills!

That being said, how much are you willing to spend on the different areas of your vacation planning?

You’ll need to consider travel, such as airfare, train, boat, taxi, bus, gas, tolls, lodging, and food.

Don’t forget about experiences (admission, fees, tours, etc.), souvenirs, and travel insurance.

An easy way to save up for your trip is to set aside a predetermined amount of money each payday to fund your trip.

Step 4. Set aside time.

Sure, a vacation is always somewhere in the happy future, but to get there you have to start now.

Don’t wait another minute longer: put in a vacation request at work or block out time in your calendar if you’re self-employed.

It’s also a good idea to take a moment to reschedule and/or cancel appointments and other commitments in preparation for your upcoming trip.

Step 5. Book travel, lodging and tours early.

It’s always a good idea to book your travel, lodging, and tour arrangements as soon as possible when planning a vacation.

Not only will you have your plans set, but you might even save some money or secure specials deals and packages by booking several months in advance.

You may find it helpful to put together an itinerary to help you organize all your vacation information in one place.

Step 6. Prepare for your departure.

This step requires you to think about and make planning arrangements before, during, and after your departure.

Make arrangements for any required travel inoculations, as well as valid travel documents and materials.

Address items related to your home and living environment. Arrange alternative pet care while you’re away, as well as mail and package deliveries, and the watering of your lawn, plants, or garden.

You may choose to have someone housesit your abode or swing by your home every few days to attend to tasks and make sure things are in order.

Don’t forget to plan the logistics for automatic light timers and/or thermostat settings if any, as well as securing any valuables, and locking up your property as necessary.

It’s always a good idea to let someone know about your departure, just in case.

Give a trusted friend, neighbor or family member your contact information while you are away in case of an emergency (landline, cell, address, email).

Step 7. Pack up!

Make a list of all the items you’ll for your vacation. An easy way to do this is to simply envision yourself on vacation.

What are you doing? Where are you traveling? Who are you with? Your answers will dictate what you’ll need to pack.

Remove luggage from storage or purchase new luggage. Layout, arrange, and pack items like clothes, pajamas, shoes, and accessories like hats, scarves, gloves, sunglasses, jackets, and coats.

Don’t forget those toiletries, medications, small electronics and chargers, travel documents, maps, and your house keys.

Step 8. Take your vacation!

Last but not least, it’s time to take your vacation!

You’ve worked so hard to plan your trip. The only thing left to do is travel and be fully in the moment.

Sit back, relax, and enjoy your vacation!

How about you? Which of these tips are you going to use to help you organize a great vacation? Join the conversation and leave a comment below!