TRAVEL MADE SIMPLE IN 7 EASY STEPS

You know you need to get away, but who has time to plan?  There are so many things to think of, logistics to coordinate, not to mention the packing and all the preparation.  But help is here! I've crammed this list full of things to make your planning stress and worry-free.  From packing tips to Travel Advisories to spending wisely, I've got you covered to help you plan the vacation of your dreams.  Read on, traveller!

7 Easy Steps to Stress-Free Travel Planning

Step #1 - Determine what type of vacation you want or need before doing any research. 

Perhaps it’s as simple as a week on the beach where you can turn off the world and simply relax.  Or maybe you are more active and need to get away on a hiking or biking adventure.  If you’ve been spending too much time working, possibly you need to reconnect with your family away from all the hustle and bustle of daily routines.  Try to have an image in your mind of exactly what sort of vacation you need, before even thinking about destinations.

Step #2 - Place a higher emphasis on value, rather than price, when planning your vacation. 

Of course no one wants to spend more than they have to, but do you really want two or three connections to get to Rome simply to save $200?  Centrally located hotels will be more expensive that those out in the suburbs or industrial areas, but do you want to spend a couple of hours of your precious vacation time every day commuting to all the must-see highlights in your destination?  Do you want to save a few dollars and stand in line for three hours to purchase a ticket to the Eiffel Tower, or are you willing to purchase your ticket in advance and simply walk through the turnstile at your reserved time?  Your Travel Advisor can tailor-make your itinerary to ensure you get the best value for your hard-earned time and dollars.

Step #3 - Consider climate and weather patterns before deciding on dates for your chosen vacation destination. 

While it’s impossible to predict with 100% accuracy, by checking historical weather patterns, you can minimize the likelihood of running into hurricanes, or other unpleasant weather events.  

Step #4 - Health and safety come first. 

While the unexpected can happen, you can minimize the risks of having your vacation ruined by planning ahead.  Always check the latest travel advisories before booking and then again a few days before your departure at  https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories.  Travelling when there is an advisory in place may result in an insurance claim being denied.  Never travel against your doctor’s advice.  

Step #5 - Always ensure you have adequate travel insurance protection. 

This includes both trip cancellation, interruption and delay protection, and out-of-province emergency medical protection.  If you have coverage through your work or credit card, review it carefully.  Many plans are for a limited number of days out of the country or have a maximum insured amount that may be much less that your trip.  If your pet dies or you lose your job, are you protected?  Does your plan require you to pay up front, then submit the claim for reimbursement when you get home?  Canadians are very unaware of the costs of medical services and are often shocked to learn that an emergency appendectomy can cost well over $20,000.  To be blunt, if you can’t afford adequate insurance, then you can’t afford to travel.  

Step #6 - Pack lightly, but smartly. 

Whether you are going away for a week or a month, you never need more than one week’s worth of clothing.  Laundry facilities are available worldwide, and you will likely need a day off from your travels once a week to refresh yourself and your clothing.  Stick to one subtle colour scheme, e.g., navy and ivory or black and beige, and add a pop of colour with scarves or inexpensive jewellery.  Comfortable walking shoes are essential.

There’s a saying, “Take half the clothes and twice the money.”  No one other than yourself and your travel companion know what you wore yesterday.  And you really don’t want to miss out on a special experience or souvenir that you stumbled across by accident just because you are short a few dollars.  

Always pack copies of your passport and both sides of your credit cards (with numbers to call if lost or stolen), separately from the originals.  Leave a copy of your itinerary with a friend or family member at home.  Carry a cell phone that works in the destination where you are travelling.

Step #7 - Use a Travel Advisor. 

For most people, life is busier and more demanding than ever, and vacation time is more valuable.  You don’t have time to spend hours researching your much-needed vacation.  There are so many options to choose from, and it can take hours to sort and filter the pros and cons of each.  After a brief initial consultation to determine your needs and wants, your Travel Advisor will suggest two or three itineraries for you to choose from.  All you have to do is pay, pack and go.  

Your Travel Advisor is invested in your happiness and satisfaction and wants to make sure your all your travels are packed full of positive lifelong memories.  

For more information on how I can help make travel simple for you CLICK HERE.