You know that age-old saying, “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail”? Well, it just doesn’t apply to career and school, it is also applicable to travel. Think about it. Would you really want to schedule a trip to Australia on a wing and a prayer and hope everything turns out right? Of course not, so why not put every aspect of your trip in writing. Doesn’t matter if it is a weekend trip or a week-long trip, make sure you make a list and check it twice. Do you have your accommodations reserved? Have you printed or at least recorded the confirmation number? Did you remember to check which airport you are departing out of in your hometown or arriving at when you reach your destination? Sounds silly, but I have actually missed a flight by going to the wrong airport– and it cost me dearly.
Do you need a rental car? If so, have you finalized the reservation? Do you have an itinerary planned for your excursions, if you plan to take any? Did you remember to pack X-amount of undergarments? Rain gear? Did you pack your medication in your carry-on bag? Do you have your passport? Did you remember to put a bit of cash and at least one credit card in your wallet? If you are using a discount card for a hotel or car reservation, did you remember to bring the card? Did you put the mail and the paper on hold? Did you set the timers in your home? Did you remember to gas up your vehicle the day before your trip? Did you remember the chargers for all of your gadgets?
Seems so simple, but trust me, with the hustle and bustle of life, it is easy to over look a key item or two. I recommend devising a check list that meets your needs, update it when needed and use it frequently.
Now, get to planning those trips people!