Summer’s in, and school is out! This makes the season the perfect time to leave everything behind and go on a summer trip with your family. This time only comes once a year, and proper preparation can make it even more special and memorable. Here’s how you can properly prepare for your summer trip.
Check the weather.
Depending on your destination, the summer season can either bring dry and sunny days, or constant humid rain. The latter is especially common in tropical countries, where the humidity levels are much higher. If you’ve planned a relaxing beach vacation in a country with a rainy summer season, you might end up going back home and without having done anything.
Before you confirm your summer trip plans, research about the weather. It can dictate how your itinerary goes for the rest of the trip, and you don’t want to be stuck doing something you don’t enjoy. If you’re set on visiting a certain country, but are worried because of its rainy weather, don’t worry. There are still plenty of things you can do. Sticking to indoor sites, such as museums, is a great way to spend your vacation.
Plan out your itinerary (and your backup itinerary).
Speaking of itineraries, it’s time to make your own! While there’s value in spontaneity, having a set plan of all the tourist spots you want to go to will provide some structure to your trip. Plus, you can buy tickets or time slots to these destinations in advance. That way, you don’t have to worry about doing so later.
That said, try not to make your schedule too rigid. If you try to plan everything down to the last minute, it might end up more stressful to follow. Plus, you never know what you’ll see while wandering around your destination that you might want to check out, but don’t have the time to. Always leave a bit of wiggle room in your itinerary, plus some extra free time to do whatever you want. You can use that time to rest or try something new.
Double-check your travel documents.
Traveling and vacationing is growing more and more commonplace, when just a few years ago you couldn’t even go to the grocery store without a mask and a face shield. While the pandemic has died down from its peak, the impact it left on us is unmistakable. For some, being able to go on vacation this year is something they considered impossible two or three years ago. If it’s been a while since your last trip, you’ll need to do some double-checking before you make any concrete plans.
First, check your passport. If it’s been a while since your last passport renewal, then it might be expiring soon. While you’re at it, make sure that all our documents are ready for your trip. Your Visa is one of the first things you should secure. Some places also don’t allow entrance for those without vaccine documentation, so make sure to plan ahead. Other documents you’ll need are your travel tickets and travel insurance, if you have any.
Take care of your health.
Vacations are just as fun as they are tiring. While it’s certainly the best opportunity to create amazing new memories, the fact that it’s always jam-packed with new things to do can wear you out fast. You barely have the time to sit down – after all, there’s always another exhibit to see or a new activity to try. Plus, vacationers always tend to sleep late and wake up early to make the most of their time.
Vacations are like marathons, so get ready accordingly. Don’t deprive yourself of sleep; you should always get the recommended 6-8 hours, no matter how excited you are for the next day. Remember to drink plenty of water, too. It may be a good idea to keep a bottle on you at all times during your vacation so that you always have a source of water. Finally, watch what you eat; junk foods won’t give you the energy you need to fully enjoy your trip, so remember to eat healthy, but filling meals.
Prepare your home.
Before you lock your doors and head off to the airport, make sure that your house and everything in it will be safe and taken care of while you’re away. If you have plants, a friend can come by every so often to water them. If you have pets, you’ll need someone to take care of them, whether it be a pet hotel or a trusted loved one.
Be sure to protect your home from anything unexpected. Make sure to unplug all of your electronics – you do not want a faulty outlet to spark a fire while you’re away. If you have an alarm system, turn it on before you go. Make sure all of your doors and windows are locked. Finally, store any valuables you’re not bringing with you to a safe hidden place.