5 Things You Ought To Remember Before Planning A Trip


Who doesn’t love a change of scene?

 

Everyone does. A move away from the monotonous everyday routine, even if just for a few days, is one everyone wishes for. And the answer to that desire of escape lies in one word, travel.

 

Sometimes this desire is so strong that it’s very easy to get carried away with the notion in itself. And that, let me tell you, isn’t recommended at all.

 

Why?

 

Because when that happens you might forget some essential aspects. That eventually could land you in some very tough spots. Not something you would want happening on vacations, would you?

 

While the romanticism associated with travel is hard to avoid, it is also a must to allow some room for planning. Yes, as mundane as it might sound, you wouldn’t want to turn your escape into a nightmare. Even seasoned travellers would advise the same. While a surprise turn could be adventurous, you really wouldn’t want to be caught unawares in unfamiliar surroundings. What according to you are the things you ought to remember before planning a trip?

 

Now, I am, by my own admission, a reluctant traveller. But even then I like my vacations stress-free. Hence, I take planning extremely seriously and so should you. I dislike being unprepared for anything. I abhor untoward surprises in every aspect of life, even while travelling. While a last-minute solution could work once, even twice I wouldn’t really advise leaving it to that.

 

You shouldn’t look for shortcuts when it comes to anything in life, even travel.

 

So, today I’m going to share with you 5 things that every vacationer needs to take care of to have that perfect few days away from pandemonium.

 

Things You Ought To Remember Before Planning A Trip

 

Travel Insurance

This might not seem very important but trust me it is. I know that the general trend is to omit this, thinking of it as an unwanted expenditure but it certainly isn’t. Cancellations, delays, medical expenses, and baggage losses among a host of other unforeseen complications could be easily dealt with by travel insurance.

 

Don’t book tickets before your leaves are approved

 

It is always, always imperative to plan your holidays in advance, especially if you are working. These days with ticket cancellations having so many hidden charges, you wouldn’t want to have to do that, especially when it comes to air tickets. Unless of course, you don’t mind paying unnecessary charges to the airline industry from your hard-earned money. So, book your tickets only when you have your leaves approved.

 

Avoid planning travels around festivals

 

This is something I can vouch for. I always end up taking vacation time during festivals, the result being having to shell out a huge sum on tickets. So, if you can avoid the festival season, do that. An added advantage to that would be less crowd at your destination, so a win-win in all aspects.

 

Prefer booking directed via hotel websites

While there are several travel sites which claim to give you great deals on bookings, I have from personal experience seen that it is always better to contact the hotel directly. I remember having done that while travelling around Europe and saving a lot in the bargain. You wouldn’t want to make bad investments, even if it concerns travel.

 

Check reviews before booking

 

I always say that the best thing about this internet crazy time is the enormous information at our disposal. So, make use of that to get your money’s worth. Take time out, sieve through all the available options and finally, settle in on one that best suits your needs in terms of fun and finance.

 

Well, those were some tips which I could offer you. Do not hesitate to add yours for one can never have too much of good advice. So, keep them coming.

 

While on the topic of financial security and insurance, you might want to check out Exide Life. It is a brand that works on the principle that there are no shortcuts to long-term financial security, #NoMoreShortCuts. To lead a protected life in terms of being insured, it makes sense to do away with this quick-fix attitude which we Indians tend to have. Always better to plan and be prepared. And not only for financial security but for your long-term happiness to be insured as well. That’s what people at Exide Life try to work for. Check them out, here.

 

32 thoughts on “5 Things You Ought To Remember Before Planning A Trip”

  1. One important addition that i just found out: try booking flights to second locations closer to the primary ones…they'll a lot cheaper!

    Good list!

  2. Don't have much to add. Because I am a caregiver, I also have to check out cancellation policies – I hate to have to cancel a reservation (and I'm sure there are blacklists somewhere for that) but I've had to do that. Alana ramblinwitham.blogspot.com

  3. No more shortcuts, does sound like a catchy mantra to follow. Though now that you're a parent, your planning is going to increase (and drive you a little nuts too, if I daresay) 😛
    As 'Bookworm' said – checking out cancellation policies is also a good option

  4. I am all for planning, in fact cant function without checking details in advance and making lists. Agree with all the pointers you have shared and follow too, except for the Travel Insurance. Havent done that before. Must look into this aspect of travel too!

  5. I also like basic things planned and well thought out when going on vacations – travel, tickets, hotels etc. But some things I prefer to do spontaneously. Like exploring not-so-popular, not-touristy places in the nearby villages etc when we travel. That kind of discovery adds so much value, I think.

  6. Oh yes, I plan my holidays to the T. I guess impromptu travels are not my thing especially with the kids.

  7. Oh yes, I plan my holidays to the T. I guess impromptu travels are not my thing especially with the kids.

  8. Planning is super important. I also check the cancellation policies. And checking review is certainly a must.

  9. Wonderful points… I totally agree… I always do a thorough research on hotels and make backup plans whenever necessary.

  10. Oh yes, I'm dreading that already, Sid..So many things to carry for the little one , with the luggage limitations it's really going to be one hell of a job to optimise

  11. I remember reading that you really need your lists…I too have just started taking travel insurance seriously 🙂

  12. That was a fun and useful read:-) I do a lot of research ahead too:-) Tripadvisor, locals, if I know someone who knows someone who live there .. etc. And of course, always be prepared that somethings might change.. that has its charm too:-)

  13. True knowing someone always helps, Eli…It's mostly about being prepared, isn't it? Even a small percentage I guess

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