Did you know that planning for an event often makes people just as happy as when they are on the trip?
Thinking about the trip is exciting, but unfortunately, many people’s plans don’t turn into reality.
If you dont want to have stress while traveling, there are a few things that will help you maintain flexible control.
Continue reading to discover the basics of stress-free travel to enjoy your trip from start to finish!
Make a General Plan
Whether you’re traveling across the country or state, making a general plan can help you obtain stress-free travel.
Although you are planning to use your phone, tablet, or navigation system, you should still have written instructions. Packing a map and highlighting your route can help when you don’t have an internet connection or have to go another way.
Aside from getting the directions, you’ll also want to make a general timeline. It’s best to be flexible with your timeline to make the most of your trip. Write down how many days you have to travel and break it up into segments if you have a lot of driving to do.
Find Lodging
If you want to avoid stress before traveling, you must reserve hotel rooms or an Airbnb.
Even if you want to keep your plans up in the air, you still need to find a place to stay for the night. Waiting until the last minute can put you at risk of not finding a hotel or room when you need to stop. Conventions and tourists can overwhelm lodging options, making staff turn people away at the doors.
If you like to get in the car and drive as much as you can, without designated stops, there are still ways to ensure a spot. You can contact hotel and rental places are you start approaching towns. Pay attention to the mile markets on the road and try to reserve a spot with as much notice as possible.
Rent a Vehicle
You should consider renting if your vehicle doesn’t get the best mileage or isn’t big enough for the trip.
Many people recommend renting an SUV since it has plenty of seats and storage space. The number of people in the vehicle, bags, and other belongings you pack will determine if you need a larger vehicle. Pay attention to rental fees and insurance coverage so you don’t spend more than necessary.
Having a reliable vehicle on your trip can help relieve anxiety and get you to your destination quickly.
Consider the Kids
Planning a calming trip as a couple is often much easier than when kids are involved.
There are many stress-free travel trips when you’re bringing your kids along for the ride. For example, getting together car-friendly activities and snacks will help you keep them happy. Try to make your children as comfortable as you can if you’re in for a long ride.
Keep in mind that when you bring your children, you’ll have to add time and frequency to the number of bathroom breaks. Make the most of each moment on your trip with the kids. Although things might not go as you planned, you can still have fun!
If you aren’t bringing the kids to avoid the hassle, make sure you hire a babysitter that is trustworthy and friendly.
Have a Plan for Pets
Travel planning can come to a halt if you don’t have a plan for your pets.
You can’t just leave your dogs at home to fend for themselves, but there are a few options. Bringing your pets with you on the trip is fun if you have the space and ability to care for them on your trip.
When you want to leave your dogs or cats at home, you can consider hiring a sitter or taking them to a boarding place. If you are going to try these options, you will have to plan to ensure that someone can watch them or that there’s room at the boarding place.
Get Your Vehicle Checked
There’s nothing worse than discovering vehicle problems while you are hundreds of miles away from home.
Before you leave on your trip, take your vehicle to the auto shop. Oil changes and routine check-ups can prevent you from needing help on the side of an unfamiliar road. Make sure your engine light isn’t on, you have fresh oil, and that your tires are rotated and aligned.
It’s also a good idea to clean your car from the inside out to help keep everyone comfortable.
Prepare Devices
From inputting your destination into GPS to picking the right music and temperature, you want to prepare your devices.
The night before your trip, charge all of the devices. If there are several people in the vehicle, some can listen to music or shows on their devices with headphones. The driver should have control of the sound system since it’s accessible and safer.
Having devices while traveling can help distract your kids when they start getting impatient at the end of the drive. They are also great for finding lodging, restaurants, and rest stops.
Stress-Free Travel Is Just Around the Corner
A lack of planning can turn a fun trip into a nightmare.
If you want stress-free travel with your family, there are a few things you must do to prepare. When the vehicle and basic plans are mapped out, you don’t have to stress about rentals or finding a place to stay. Traveling can be difficult with kids and pets, but you can make them comfortable to get to the final destination.
Don’t forget to have a written plan and map in case you can’t get service on your devices.
If you want to learn more about travel planning and preparing for a fun trip with your family, read our blog for the latest content!