When you are overworked, overstressed and dreaming of a holiday do you find it hard to find the time to plan one? This is more common than you might think.
Whether we like it or not our lives are busier now than ever before despite the evolution of technology and the many conveniences this affords us with our time and resources.
With all the noise, it's long overdue that you take advantage of our 5 easy ways to plan your dream holiday.
1. Make More Time For Holidays
I am sure the first thought that came into your head is ‘How on earth do I make more time for holidays when my life is so busy’
Planning is key to making more time for holidays. We all have the same hours in the day, days in the week, and weeks in the year; however, not all holidays are created equal.
It is all about how smart you are with planning your time off. We all have annual leave, public holidays and of course weekends (or your equivalent if you are in an industry that works the traditional weekend)
Next step to make this happen is to sit down with a planning calendar. Ideally, this calendar should be undated (can be used for any year and reusable). This may sound over the top but to optimise your holiday time experience using this type of tool can be revolutionary.
When you have hung your dry erase wall calendar on the wall fill in the dates for the year with a erasable marker to include all:
- Birthdays
- Public holidays
- Events that you want to attend
- Occasions that are important to you
The next step is to review your calendar and prioritize when you want to take time off to extend your break periods and make the most of your time off.
Now for the secret sauce!
Check out our post on How To Turn Your 20 Days Annual Leave Into 52 Days Of Holidays
Choose The Holiday Destination You Want
When you think about your holidays, if you are anything like me, my mind runs wild. My mind usually escapes to my holiday by the beach. This is my go-to - what is yours?
What if you (and I) opened our minds to different travel experiences and what they could offer us to step outside of our comfort zones.
Where have other people visited and what are they saying that sparks your curiosity?
Sometimes you have to take time to explore the possibilities and take the time to plan how you will make the most of your holidays.
Use Technology To Make Planning Easier
Technology can be used for good if we give it a specific purpose. There are many platforms out there that you can access to help plan your dream holiday.
If you want recommendations, mention these 6 tools for planning your holiday to friends and get their feedback before deciding which tools will be advantageous for you to use. Another option is to have a look at reviews and discover what others are saying about the platforms.
Technology is only as good as what you tell it you are looking for.
Go old-school before you make the most of the platform/s you choose. Ask yourself the following questions
- How long are you going away for?
- What types of accommodation do you want to stay in?
- How long do you want to stay in each location?
- What facilities do you want?
- What experiences are you looking for?
- What activities are a must to have included?
- Who are you travelling with?
- Do you have any special needs?
I will let you add to these questions to customise your search to get the best results you can.
Bonus Tip: Once you have identified what you holiday plan looks like and what you need to make it happen make sure you pack the right way for the holiday you choose
All baggage is not equal. Pack for the occasion
Staying in hotels, travelling by air or train? A suitcase with a combination lock is a must
Staying in a tent holidaying under the stars? A large duffle bag will be more appropriate
No Time For A Holiday - No Worries!
If your time off has had to accommodate other commitments and you still find yourself coming up short in the holiday department do not despair.
Consider making your home your holiday base and exploring where you live. Becoming a tourist in your own town will let you discover hidden gems you had no idea existed. Learn 11 Unique Ways To Become A Tourist In Your Own Town and let the adventures begin!
Interspersing your day trips locally with adventures in your own backyard will surprise and delight your kids. You may even find yourself allowing your inner child to come out and play.
Do you remember pre-technology days when you used your imagination to create and explore?
We will start the creative juices with our 9 Fun Things You Will Love To Do Holidaying At Home. Please feel free to share your spin on what you can do at home to create your take on a ‘holiday at home’.
