Nobody REALLY teaches you how to travel. It’s always “book the flight” or “just go!” Like okay, but go where? how? when? with what money?
If you’ve ever sat there at 1 a.m. super overwhelmed with 190 tabs open and still no clue how to plan a trip this one’s for you.
Here’s how to plan your first trip, the easy breezy beautiful way.
ps. it’s not that deep, I got you.
1. Pick a Destination
Don’t overthink it… says the person who overthinks literally everything. Try to narrow it down as much as possible.
Ask yourself:
- Do I want a city vibe or nature?
- Super Far away or close-ish?
- Language barrier siiiii or no?
- Some beginner-friendly places: Portugal, Spain, Costa Rica, France or Mexico.
2. Set a Budget
Let’s talk money!!! Set up a separate travel savings account so you’re not mixing your rent money with your “let’s ride camels in the desert” fund.
Because listen… the math needs to math. The last thing you want is to land in paradise and realize you can’t afford to do a damn thing.
Over-budget. ALWAYS. Double what you think you’ll spend because guess what? You will want that overpriced smoothie and you will book that random last-minute tour “just because.” Future you will thank you. Broke you won’t!
Here’s what you should think about:
- Flights
- Accommodation
- Food
- Activities
- Transportation
*Pro tip: Look at YouTube videos or blog posts that break down.
3. Choose Your Travel Dates
Sometimes I’ll just Google stuff like “best time to go to [insert destination]” or “where to travel in [insert month]” honestly, it helps.
Be real with your time. Some places require more time than others. There’s absolutely no way you can do a trip to Japan in a weekend. It just won’t happen. However, a trip to Mexico? TOTALLY!
To be realistic with your time, the best thing to do is sit down, look at your calendar, and plan around any available dates and holidays. If possible, try to align your vacation with those days off. And if the weather permits, consider traveling during shoulder season (the period between peak and off-seasons). This way, you can avoid the crowds and save some money honey.
4. Book the Flight
This is probably the most stressful part of the whole trip…booking the flight. What time should I go? Should I book a layover? When should I get to the airport? Seriously, the questions never end. If you’re like me, first things first: figure out what you’re actually looking for.
I start by finding the best airport to fly into for my destination. Then, I use Google Flights or Skyscanner to compare prices. I give myself a few days to watch the prices, because the last thing you want to do is book something, then come back and see the price drop. I tend to keep an eye on it for about 3-5 days before booking.
OHHH!!! and sometimes I’ll search in incognito mode because, yes, I swear the prices change when they know you’re looking.
I still recommend going through all the other steps first, then circling back to book your flight. For now, do some research and check out flights, then come back to this step when you’re ready to make it official. **
Once you book your flight, panic just a little then get excited, and breathe…you did it!!!
5. Find a Place to Stay
This part depends on what you’re looking for. Do you want to stay somewhere central and close to everything? Or are you okay saving money and staying at a B&B or hostel a little further out? It really comes down to what makes you feel comfortable, because at the end of the day, this is where you’ll be coming back to rest. And no one wants to be exhausted the whole trip because they couldn’t sleep.
I usually start by looking at Google Maps to figure out where the main spots I want to visit are. Then I check out neighborhoods around there and look into places to stay either Airbnb or hotels based on location, reviews, and price.
6. Build an Itinerary
Don’t plan out every single second of the trip but do have a rough idea of what you want to do each day. What I like to do is make a list of spots I’m interested in and save them in a Google Maps folder for that area. It helps me see what’s nearby and keeps me focused, because it’s very easy to get distracted and forget why you came in the first place.
Also, leave room for the unexpected whether it’s a spontaneous adventure, surprise gelato stops, and yes, a nap or two or three.
7. Learn the Basics
It’s always a good idea to know a little about the place you’re going, whether it’s visa requirements, local etiquette, or how people typically get around. The small stuff makes a big difference once you’re actually there. And if you’re heading to a foreign country, at least try to learn a few basic words in the local language. Don’t assume everyone speaks English (even if they might). Locals appreciate the effort. A simple “good morning” or “where’s the bathroom?” can go a long way and hey, at least they’ll know you’re trying.
Ask yourself:
Do I need a visa?
Do they tip?
Is tap water safe?
How do people usually get around?
Any local customs I should know?
8. Handle the Adult Stuff
This part isn’t sexy, but it matters:
- Make sure your passport is valid (like, really really valid)
- Get travel insurance**
- Tell your bank you’re going abroad
- Bring a travel adapter
- Screenshot confirmations in case there’s no Wi-Fi
- Take pictures or print out of travel documents just in case
This is what helps you travel the easy breezy beautiful way no last-minute surprises.
9. Pack Light but Smart
Honestly, if you take any recommendation from me, let it be this: pack for the weather and pack for comfort. No…you don’t need five pairs of heels you probably won’t even wear one. You’re on vacation, not walking a runway, and nothing ruins a trip faster than feeling like your feet are about to fall off.
Also, don’t forget the little things you think you won’t need: backup chargers, a mini first-aid kit, medicine (just in case), and maybe even a journal to jot things down. Trust me, future you will be glad you came prepared you packed the tennis shoes instead of the stilettos.
DOWNLOAD my complete TRAVEL-CHECKLIST
10. GO and Trust Yourself
One minute you’re packing, and the next you’re heading home. So while you’re out there: try something different, say yes to something random, push yourself out of your comfort zone. And take a lots of pictures. Because you did it!!! You made it. You’re out there in the world doing the thing. 😀
Final Words
You’ll probably second guess yourself about a million times, but just take it one step at a time. Don’t try to tackle the whole trip in one sitting. One day, book the flight; the next, research where you’ll be staying. Break it down and you’ll get it done. It doesn’t have to be perfect. You just need to be BRAVE enough to make it happen. So, book the flight, order that coffee in a foreign language, laugh at yourself, and go make memories because that’s what it’s all about.
Travel smart, live inspired!
Jessika 🙂
**= Very Important
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