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How to Plan a Weekend Getaway in 5 Easy Steps

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I love weekend getaways. I think of them as the low-maintenance sibling of serious travel , you know? Where planning a whole trip can be complicated, I always want my weekend vacations to be easy breezy. Just follow my five easy steps to learn how to plan a weekend getaway.

For beginning travelers and/or anxious travelers, planning a weekend getaway can be a great way to start dipping your toes into the world of travel. A quick trip can be quite affordable and you’re not committing to spending a lot of time in one place that you may or may not like.

Grab your copy of the free printable travel planner to help you plan your ideal weekend getaway.

Key takeaways

  • Weekend getaways offer an affordable and low-commitment introduction to travel.
  • Choosing a destination within driving distance maximizes time at the destination and simplifies travel logistics.
  • Choose accommodations that align with your personal preferences and budget.
  • Create a flexible itinerary that includes a mix of relaxation and sightseeing.
  • Pack with care, so that you don’t forget anything you need or overpack with many items you don’t need.

Woman sitting on a balcony with arms outstretched

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#1. Choose your weekend getaway destination

To get started planning your getaway, you need to decide where you want to go .

To keep things simple, I usually avoid flying for trips shorter than 3 full days …so this means my top choices for weekend getaway destinations are within a reasonable driving distance from my home.

Limiting the distance you’re willing to travel for a weekend trip is a personal decision, but it does keep things simple. It also has the benefit of allowing you to maximize the amount of time you get to spend at your destination rather than traveling and at the airport.

When choosing a weekend getaway destination, cost is often going to be a major factor. You can choose your destination and then set your travel budget or choose your destination based on a travel budget you’ve already set.

Either option is a viable choice.

if you’re going for a cheap weekend getaway trip, consider less popular places or hidden gem towns.

For more help with building your travel budget, check out this post on creating a travel budget that works for you . This article includes basic guidance for how much of your budget to allot for certain expenses such as transportation, accommodations, food, activities, etc.

It was written from the perspective of planning a longer trip, but can easily be adapted for short trips and weekends away.

Getting back to choosing a destination…we tend to keep a running mental list of weekend trip destination ideas and choose based on whether we want to revisit a favorite place or try something new, whether we want to see a lot of sites or just chill at the beach…those kinds of things.

For help with choosing your weekend getaway destination, you can:

  • Brainstorm a list of destinations you’ve always wanted to visit.
  • Invite your travel companion(s) to give their input.
  • Check out Pinterest for inspiration.
  • Ask friends and family about their favorite weekend getaway spots.
  • Do Google searches for ideas like “ romantic getaways in the South ” or “best winter weekend getaways in the U.S.”

Once you’ve chosen your destination, you’re ready to get on with planning your weekend away.

mockup image of a free printable travel planner

#2. Decide on how you want to get there

For a weekend getaway, driving to your destination keeps things simpler. Bottom line. Everyone travels differently, so if you’re willing to fly for a weekend trip, then go for it. But it’s not my recommendation. I’m all for doing a weekend road trip.

I live in the southeastern United States where there are a LOT of things to see and do within a reasonable driving time of home. For more help with your road trip, check out:

  • Things to do on a long road trip to pass the time
  • Great road trip questions for fun conversation
  • Entertaining road trip trivia & questions

If you do want to fly to your destination, here are a few tools to help you research flights and even save some bucks.

Formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights, Going is a flight deals subscription service that sends travel deals straight to your email inbox. And Premium members get weekend getaway deals in addition to amazing deals on international and domestic flights.

In my opinion, a Going Premium subscription is well worth the money and is the best way to get the best deals on flights especially if you have flexible travel dates and want to see new places. You can even try it for free for two weeks to decide if you think it’s worth the money.

For more about this service, see my full review of Going .

Google Flights

My go-to site when I start my trip planning is Google Flights . Use the “Explore Destinations” tool to browse for great deals from your chosen departure airport. You’ll get the best results if your travel dates are flexible…though this can be said of any cheap flight tool. 

See my post on using Google Flights for more information.

Secret Flying

Another great resource for finding amazing deals on flights (including error fares) is Secret Flying . While I have found that I don’t see quite as many great deals as with Going , Secret Flying is totally free.

You sign up for alerts on their website , but they don’t offer alerts from any airport you want in the U.S. But they do offer alerts from airports outside the United States, unlike Going.

Another tool in my trip-planning arsenal is the Hopper app . Hopper predicts prices to help you decide whether you should book now or wait for a better deal to come along.

I like to use Hopper when my travel dates aren’t as flexible, but I have time to wait for prices to improve before I book.

For more details, see my full post on how to save money on flights .

Beautiful houses along the Battery in Charleston

#3. Decide where to stay

Now that you know where you’re going and how to get there, you can figure out where you’re going to stay once you’re there.

Weekend getaways (especially a city break or romantic getaway) are the perfect opportunity to try out a high-end hotel, inn, or resort you’ve been wanting to stay at. Sometimes your perfect weekend getaway might be just about enjoying your resort’s amenities or hotel suite.

Read more: Hotel staycation ideas

We tend to avoid vacation rentals (such as through Vrbo or Airbnb) for short trips because the added fees can increase the per-night cost so much that you don’t really save any money. This is my personal preference, but if we’re not going to save money by going with a rental then we would just as soon stay in a hotel.

For cheap weekend trips, we go for affordable chain hotels that offer free breakfast like Fairfield Inn & Suites or Residence Inn.

There are websites (like booking.com ) that allow you to look for a wide variety of accommodation options at the same time: hotels, inns, B&Bs, condo rentals, homestays, etc.); however, a downside with using a site such as booking.com is that choices can be overwhelming, making it difficult to make a decision.

To help you decide how to book, you can check out my post about whether to use booking.com or book directly with the hotel . It will walk you through all the pros and cons of each with side-by-side comparisons. 

My recommendation for new or anxious travelers who are having difficulty choosing a place to stay is to:

  • Use a map to choose an area or two in your destination where you would like to stay
  • Set your budget
  • Find 3 or 4 accommodation options in a location you like and that are within your budget then stop searching there
  • Compare the amenities of those options and book

View of the Matanzas River and the Bridge of Lions from top of Castillo de San Marcos

#4. Create your itinerary

Now that you’ve settled on where you’re staying at your destination, you need to make some decisions about what you want to do during your weekend away. We tend to choose one or two “must-do” things for a weekend getaway and keep the rest of the weekend as flexible as possible.

Here are a few prompts to help you as you create your itinerary:

  • Do you want a “relax and unplug” weekend getaway or are you looking for some adventure? A nice mix of both sightseeing and relaxation ?
  • Is your destination known for any kind of attraction or activity in particular?
  • Do you need to book any attractions or tours in advance?

Depending on where you’re going there may be way too many options to choose from than you can do in a weekend. If that’s the case you’ll want to spend a little time figuring out what your “must-do’s” are.

Make sure to give yourself a little breathing room in your itinerary to get from one site or activity to the next, to allow for things going wrong, for rescheduling due to bad weather, etc.

For more about itineraries, see my complete guide to creating a travel itinerary . It was written with longer vacations in mind, but the basic ideas can be applied to a trip of any length.

Think you’re too busy to travel? See Maximizing Weekend Getaways: Tips for Busy Travelers

view from Clingmans Dome at Great Smoky Mountains National Park

#5. Pack for your getaway

With your itinerary built, it’s time to figure out what you want to take with you on your trip. Your packing list will be a reflection of your destination, the season/weather, and your planned activities among other things.

See my ultimate weekend getaway packing list for help with your packing list. It’s customizable for any kind of weekend getaway…any season, any activity, even long weekends.

For a short weekend getaway (perhaps from a Saturday morning to a Sunday night) check out my essential overnight trip packing list . This list is perfect for very quick trips when you want to make sure that you’re not overpacking , which is so easy to do for short getaways.

For additional help with your packing, you might want to check out:

  • Travel essentials for women
  • How to pack your day trip bag  

Final thoughts on planning a weekend getaway 

There’s nothing like a weekend getaway to help you relax and unwind or to get a taste of a new travel destination you might want to return to later for a longer visit.

No matter where you go, planning your next weekend getaway should be fun and easy. The easy steps above should be all that you need to plan the perfect weekend away. Enjoy!

What is your perfect weekend getaway?

More articles to help you plan a weekend getaway  

  • The travel planning resources you need
  • Perfect weekend packing list for any kind of weekend trip (even a long weekend)
  • Romantic getaways in the South
  • Romantic weekend ideas for couples
  • The best travel guides (books and online)
  • The perfect romantic weekend at Biltmore

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How to plan a weekend getaway

Darcy Vierow is a busy professional and travel planning expert with years of experience maximizing travel with limited time and on a less-than-average salary. Her tips have been published by Forbes, MSN.com, Yahoo! News, Yahoo! Finance, Aol, Newsbreak and GOBankingRates. Read more about Darcy Vierow .

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10 Simple Steps To Plan A Weekend Getaway Or Vacation

Weekend vacations are incredibly underrated. First, they are a great way to escape daily hassles, de-stress, relax, and unwind on a weekend. Second, weekend trips have many benefits. Imagine, you can explore a new destination without spending a fortune, travel even with a 9 to 5 job, and see the lesser-known towns in your area. I bet this is really cool! But how do you go about it? How to plan a weekend getaway?

While planning a weekend adventure might seem like an easy task, it actually involves some work. You will still need to think about budget, where to stay, what to pack, food, and, the most important thing, how to keep your luggage light! However, it can’t compare to a long, annual trip. In this post, I’m going to give you some killer tips to help you plan the best weekend trip ever. These are the basics people usually forget while planning a weekend away, but taking them into account when planning your fun 48 hours will make a huge difference in your overall enjoyment of the journey!

how to plan a weekend getaway

Top Travel Tips for Planning a Weekend Getaway

So you’re on a mission to plan a weekend trip but still unsure where to start? Fret not. In fact, you can even do your weekend planning last minute!

1. Think About What Kind of Trip You Want

Start by identifying your travel goals and reasons you want to visit a particular destination. Are you looking to get off the grid so you can forget about your job for two days, or are you looking to visit a location you’ve always wanted?

When planning a weekend getaway, think about what kind of trip you’re hoping for. This will help you narrow down selecting a destination and get the creativity flowing. Once you know what kind of trip you’re looking for, come up with a list of destinations, whether it’s cities, small towns, or countryside getaways.

how to plan a mini vacation

2. Choose the Right Time To Go

Next, you’ll want to figure out when you will be traveling, because that will determine your packing list, accommodation options, and the booking process, which may involve getting permits in National or State Parks.

Choosing the right time to go depends on what you want to do while you are there. Whether it is boating, sightseeing, hiking, camping, or spending time at the beach. Obviously, you can’t predict weather two weeks ahead but it’s important to get a reliable weekend weather forecast. It’s a no-brainer, they can adversely affect your travel experience.

Flooded country roads make it hard to access remote areas, heavy downpours can spoil your plan of a bike trip. Suffocating heat and humidity can shed away your dream of hiking making it unbearable and risky as well. However, with a little planning ahead, you can actually save yourself from these bad experiences.

Today, social media and apps have a very deep impact on our lives and they help us way beyond. So here is the time to make the most of your smartphone. The best way to plan a mini-vacation is to add cities you wish to travel to your phone’s weather app. The moment you check the weather for the location you are in, you can also check to find how the weather will be in your future destinations as well.

3. Choose a Destination And be Flexible About It

Once you have decided when you are traveling, it’s time to think about where you want to go.

When it comes to picking a destination , keep your mind open.

The beauty of a small trip is that it can lead you to unexpected places. You may find inspiration as you browse Facebook pages and stumble upon your friends’ recent post about a nearby place they ventured to, or you may find a great travel deal.

With that said, perhaps you want to explore the city you live in, and that can be a rewarding experience! This brings a lot of practical advantages too. At the end of your workweek, you won’t have to rush to the airport or worry about forgetting things. You can start a mini-vacation whenever you want it.

However, if you plan on leaving your home town, compare flights, hotels, and car deals to/in nearby destinations to determine the best trip for the weekend you’re looking to a weekend getaway. You can also research what’s going on in those destinations. Check whether there are concerts, shows, and festivals coming up you’d like to attend.

Keep in mind if you have only 2-3 days, it’s best to pick a destination that is no more than a three- to four-hour plane ride away so as not to eat too much into your actual trip.

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to hike popular trails, pick your destination accordingly? Making sure you will be able to do what corresponds to your desire will help you pick exactly the right place.

Your travel buddies can also dictate the destination. If it’s a solo trip, of course, you have a place that speaks to you. But if you are looking for things to do with friends on the weekend, options can differ dramatically since they too have their own bucket list. Comparing places on your lists may help you come to a compromise, or maybe you’re lucky and everyone already wants to visit the same place.

Whatever the case, keeping an open mind and being flexible will help you embrace the weekend – and with that attitude, you’re sure to have an amazing time wherever you end up!

4. Budget For a Weekend Getaway

It’s easy to plan a weekend getaway within two days, but your budget will largely determine where you want to go to. With so many things you need to pay out each month, it can be hard to save up even for a weekend trip. In fact, money stress is one of the most significant things that prevent people from traveling. However, with some budgeting and forward planning, you can avoid overspending on your credit card and plan for a small trip.

To make budgeting easier and simpler, set aside money in a vacation budget before you even start planning. You can open a separate vacation savings account and set up auto-payments that deposit to it every week or month. You will end up having a decent amount of money to pay for accommodation or airline tickets. My friend uses this trick so that he always has enough money for a vacation trip in case an opportunity to travel comes up.

If you’re looking for easy ways to save money for travel consider using tools such as Digit and Qapital that let you accumulate money without thinking about it. These apps can help transfer “extra” money into a dedicated account that you can use for vacation purposes. Similar to a savings account, you can withdraw your money when you’re ready to use it. Otherwise, set it and let it grow!

As you actively put money away for a weekend getaway, you will be more likely to put it to good use and plan an incredible trip.

planning a weekend getaway

5. Check Your Car For the Trip Or Keep an Eye Out on Flight Deals

There are many ways to save on weekend getaways and even more of companies that can help you do so! To ensure your weekend trip goes smoothly, you should next determine whether you travel by plane or opt for using your own vehicle.

If you choose the latter, have your car undergo technical check-up and maintenance before leaving your city. It is a good idea to make sure your driving license and insurance are valid. Download offline maps and update the map data to prepare for your road trip. Don’t forget to plan out your perfect route and decide when the best time to leave will be.

If you are flying, check your passport (ensure it’s valid) and book your airline tickets. Look at Skyscanner or a similar flight search engine and score some great deals for cheap flights.

Consider signing up for airline newsletters that will deliver travel deals straight to your inbox. If you don’t want to limit yourself only to only newsletters, you can also proactively search for deals from airlines, travel companies, hotels, and more. I’m also loyal to Star Alliance (Lufthansa, United Airlines, Air China), and I keep tabs on their travel deals by skimming the occasional emails they send.

6. Plan Your Stay

No weekend trip is complete without finding proper accommodation. Arguably one of the most important things you need to factor in, finding the best and cheapest room for your weekend trip requires some effort. Moreover, since you only have two or three days, the location should be your top priority.

Here are some tips and advice to help you decide, and choose the right travel accommodation:

Beach Getaway: To maximize your time, find accommodation near the beach to reduce the amount of time traveling from your room to where the beach is.

Romantic Getaway: To create unforgettable memories while on vacation consider staying at a luxurious suite in a 4+ star hotel or villa. if you planning a hike for your next outdoor adventure go glamping or turn your tent into an amazing staycation.

Family Getaway: If you travel in a group or with your family go camping or book an apartment-style hotel/Airbnb so that kids can move around. Apartment-style hotels with kitchen and hostels are great for anyone looking for a sociable atmosphere with friends.

City Break: In this case, I’d recommend staying within walking distance of the main attractions so you won’t have to rely on public transport.

7. Plan & Manage Your Vacation Itinerary

When planning out your weekend trip itinerary, it’s vital to take into account the logistical details so you don’t end up spending all your time running from one side of a city to another. Calculate the average time it takes to get to each activity, landmarks, and how far the different activities are from one another. If you can’t afford to add an extra day to your weekend trip, try to cluster the places that are located near one another during the same time blocks of your day.

Pro Tip: Put together a list of things that interest you in the area and save their locations on Google Maps so you can keep track of where everything is and have a clear travel itinerary.

Things look a bit different when it comes to indulging in activities that require pre-book a selected time-slot (some museums require this, as do more adventurous activities). Beyond that, I just keep the bucket list I created days in advance saved on my phone and bring it up whenever I’ve finished an activity and I’m ready to move further. This prevents me from feeling anxious about not seeing everything and makes for a more relaxed trip overall.

going away for the weekend

8. Decide What To Book in Advance

When you plan a weekend getaway you’ll want to maximize your travel time and know exactly what are the best places to see and the best free things to do.

As much as I like to just show up, some weekend planning is a good idea before heading towards a popular bucket list destination in high season or there is a risk that the tour might be booked out by the time you get there.

Popular attractions like Alcatraz in San Francisco and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre in London are booked out well in advance, so you will waste your time showing up without a prior reservation.

Research and organize your tickets to any museums, theatres, and festivals, etc. Another simple way to save money on attractions is to purchase City Passes. Research those in your weekend planning!

Are you planning a getaway so you can:

  • Enjoy the views of Paris from Eiffel Tower Summit or Second Floor
  • Pay American Museum of Natural History a visit when in New York
  • Take a helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon
  • Do a cooking class in Palermo
  • Take the Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood

Plan a mini-vacation ahead of time and book the activities you want to do.

Make a List of:

  • Free things to do
  • Parks and beaches

For ideas on things to do in your destination, use these resources:

  • Travel Blogs (like MindTheTravel )
  • Pinterest (Pin to your own board while browsing)
  • Tourism board websites
  • Ask colleagues and friends who have been there
  • Facebook (put out an update asking for travel advice)
  • Guide books (for example, Lonely Planet Guide Books)
  • Get Your Guide (they offer tours, activities, and tickets to many tourist attractions)
  • Hotel receptionist/bellboy (once in location)

9. Pack Smart. Pack Light.

Let’s face it, you don’t have to embrace the minimalist mentality to travel light. While you’re never too sure what to pack for a weekend trip, it makes sense to remember that you’ll only be away for a few days. Therefore, packing light is going to make your travel easier, cheaper, and saves you time. When packing, think about what activities you will be doing so you can pack appropriately. The hotel has a private beach? Bring a swimsuit. Looking for a weekend hike? Don’t forget hiking shoes.

You’re only going to be away from home for a couple of days, it’s totally fine if your outfits aren’t perfect every day of your trip. I typically only pack one to two casual outfits, and one to two pairs of shoes for a weekend trip. And I usually do my best to match shoes to my outfits.

If you’re driving, there’s more flexibility to pack since you can toss everything into the back seat of the car. But if you’ll be traveling by bus or train consider fitting everything you need into a backpack. You don’t want to be rolling a suitcase around with you. I recommend bringing a backpack or a duffel bag of 30-35 liters for a weekend getaway. You don’t need a size bigger than that. A daypack size, at 25 liters is also a good idea if you don’t plan to pack a lot of stuff. The goal when planning for a weekend trip is to keep things as hassle-free as possible.

10. Unplug For the Weekend. Take a Digital Detox.

Any weekend is the perfect time to rejuvenate, disconnect from work and reconnect with those you love. It’s a short amount of time when you can take a mental break to quickly re-center yourself and get back on track. You don’t want to waste it scrolling through your phone.

I get it; today we are surrounded by a world of electronic devices, and most people actually spend plenty of their time using them. But a weekend getaway is about breaking routines, doing new things, and switching up how you usually spend your time.

Taking a digital detox has a number of benefits: it can help improve sleep, relieve stress and anxiety, increase happiness, and more. I highly recommend doing what you can to keep your phone and work laptop away. Use them only for managing photos and navigational purposes.

If you can’t afford to completely disconnect while away or you need to check in with work, that’s totally fine. I usually check my email and that sort of thing right after breakfast and before going to bed so it doesn’t disrupt my whole day or take my attention away from what I’m doing.

The Bottom Line

I have been embarking on weekend getaways for years now. With my hectic work schedule, weekends away are always treasured by me. It is my time to get in touch with friends and family and unwind in a natural setting. No wonder I love going to Saxon Switzerland every other weekend, winters included.

Remember these getaways are also a perfect time to reconnect with your significant other. So invite them to join you.

I hope you find this weekend getaway planner guide useful. While traveling is always going to spark unexpected inspiration with a little bit of planning you can get the most out of your next weekend trip.

What are the best weekend getaways you have planned? I’d love to hear your favorite places to go for a quick weekend getaway!

PIN IT FOR LATER!

how to plan a weekend trip

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planning trip for weekend

DeShena@Extravagantlybroke

You make this sound so good! I think it’s a great idea to explore many of the sites that your own town or nearby town has to offer. And I agree that it would be a great way to de-stress and reconnect with the ones you care about the most.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

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How to plan a weekend trip? Tips + Free planner inside

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As a busy traveler, it is super important to plan your vacation time well, and weekend getaways are an amazing way to fuel your wanderlust! In this post, we will show you how to plan a weekend trip effortlessly and discover something new each time!

How to plan a weekend trip

Salil and I love our quick weekend trips, and Banff National Park and Calgary are our go-to places from home. Every now and then, we also add in the extra day (thanks to long weekends in Alberta Canada) to travel to the United States and even Europe!

Follow our steps to craft a flawless weekend getaway! 

Have limited vacation days ? Grab our 12-page weekend travel planner and checklist to utilize your vacation time wisely. We are pros at crafting quick getaways and effective itineraries in making the most of our trip, each time.

planning trip for weekend

Post Contents

How to plan a weekend trip – Step by step guide

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Step 1 – When do you want to travel?

First step is to decide when you plan on traveling, and that will determine your packing and travel gear, accommodation arrangement or advance booking and getting permits at National or State Parks. 

Many of our friends love to be out and about in the summer weekends, and they keep a weekend bag ready. We like to do it once a month at least, so we have our bag always on standby. 

But winter driving in Canada can be challenging, and summer trips mean booking things in advance (and also waking up early). So have a rough plan ‘when’ would you like to travel.

How to plan a weekend trip tosomeplacenew

Step 2 – Deciding on the destination

Once you have decided when you are traveling, it’s time to choose destinations. 

We love to discover new places, near or far doesn’t matter (hence the name – To-Some-Place-New). You can pick a place based on your bucket list or an inspiration you found online. 

Depending on where you live, and where you want to go here is how you can narrow down

  • Sister cities or towns located 2-3 hours drive one way from your home
  • Unexplored places near home about a short distance away
  • National, provincial or state parks near your home (let’s explore own backyard)
  • Easy and affordable flights from your hometown to another city/country

Need destination ideas in the USA? Grab this colorful inspirational book of trips by the Lonely Planet

planning trip for weekend

Step 3 –  Budgeting for your trip 

Budgeting for a trip is super important to make your getaway stress-free, without having to worry about money.

Weekend trips close to your home town will be cheaper. But it is also possible to snag a great flight and hotel deal sometimes, like our weekend trip to Las Vegas from Canada.

For a 2 to 3 day trip, set aside a budget for accommodation, food and attractions/activities. Budget for the following

  • City or town getaway: Flight/car gas, hotel, food, museum tickets/attractions/spa packages
  • National Parks or camping: Flight/car gas, hotel/ buy tent or sleeping bag, camp permit, park fees

Weekend Travel Guides & Getaways

  • A day in Montreal
  • Two days in Vancouver 
  • Two days in Barcelona 
  • Three days in Iceland
  • Three days in Lisbon 
  • Four days in San Francisco
  • Five days in Banff National Park
  • Road trips in West Coast USA
  • East Coast USA Weekend Trips

Step 4 – Check your car for the trip or book flight tickets

To ensure your weekend vacation commences without a hitch, book a car check up (if driving or embarking on a road trip). It is a good idea to also check your insurance papers and driver’s licence. Download offline maps or update navigation systems/GPS to prepare for your trip.

If you are flying, check your passport (ensure it’s current) and book your flight tickets.

Gran Theatre of Havana

Step 5 – Accommodation Planning

The next step is to book/reserve accommodation. Here are some tips to help you decide, and pick the right option

  • Romantic Getaway : Opt for a luxurious suite in a 4+ star hotel or villa. If you love the outdoors go glamping or turn your tent into an amazing staycation
  • Family and Groups : Camping or book an apartment-style hotel/Airbnb so that kids can move around. Apartment-style hotels are great for a friends getaway, as you will be able to cook and do your own thing.
  • Parks : For camping or time at the parks, remember to pack your tent and make reservations ahead of camping season (if required)

As a busy traveler, it is super important to plan your vacation time well. Read this post to learn how to plan a weekend trip effortlessly and enjoy it!

Step 6 – Itinerary Planning for the weekend

To plan a 2 – 3 day itinerary, factor in the travel time. If you are driving to the destination, we recommend starting out early. We love sunrises and driving through the city in the morning, to beat the rush. 

This is also true if you are taking a flight for a weekend getaway. Opt for a red-eye flight the day before (Friday evening) or an early morning flight to maximize travel time.

Sunset Tour Elk Island National Park

On day 1, opt for daytime sightseeing and add an evening activity or night tour. If you are camping, set up your tent, and get comfortable. Go on walks or short hikes. 

On day 2, choose something offbeat like a cooking class, explore a local museum or a flea market. Hit the outdoors – canoe, bike or a farm! 

In the evening drive back home. If staying overnight, plan a nice dinner out. 

Step 7  – Book tours, activities, get camping permits in advance

To ensure you maximize your travel time, book tours and tickets to attractions ahead of time and online. That way you are not wasting time in figuring out directions or waiting in line. 

When we spent a weekend in Seville , we were surprised how long the lines were at their attractions, even during the off-season. We always book tickets online to save both time and money, and we Seville was no different.

Many national parks open up campgrounds for reservations at least 30 days prior to the camping season. So reserve your spots online and ahead of time.  

Weekend trips

Step 8  – Packing for a weekend getaway

I love packing, and even if I am traveling for 2-3 days I pack ahead of time. It keeps me excited during my work week, and there is always something to look forward to. Click to view a detailed packing list

So in terms of packing, here is a list of items. 

ESSENTIAL CLOTHING & SHOES

  • Comfortable shoes – Shoes are important, it doesn’t matter how long or short the travel time is. I am in love with my KEEN shoes, super comfortable. It is made up of breathable material and doesn’t stink after days of wear! Click to view my favorite pair from KEEN
  • 2 sets of clothes for each day – Comfortable tops and pants/shorts
  • Pack a pretty dress or top for Saturday night out 
  • Lightweight jacket
  • Undergarments and nightwear
  • 2 pairs of socks
  • Toiletry Bag with all of your essentials – I pack my skincare routine as normal like moisturizer, sunscreen, lipgloss, and 2 lipstick, lightweight foundation, eye pencil, compact powder. Here is a nice toiletry pouch to use. 

BAG/BACKPACK

For a weekend trip, a backpack or a duffel bag of 30-32 liters is a good size. You don’t need a size bigger than that. A daypack size, at 25 liters is also a good idea. Salil uses a 25 L size backpack.

planning trip for weekend

I like to use a weekender bag, which is smaller than my travel backpack, and fits my clothes, makeup bag and a small tablet or Kindle.

  • Weekender Bag: Click to view Peak Desig n Weekender Bag
  • Daypack 25 L: Click to view Pacsafe Daypack

ELECTRONICS

Don’t forget your electronics!

  • Camera: We are currently using our Sony a7iii on our weekend trips, and love it. There is a learning curve but we are enjoying it so far. Click to view Sony a7iii
  • In the past, we enjoyed taking pictures from our lightweight and mirrorless Sony A6000 and our iPhones. Click to view prices for Sony A6000.
  • Pack a phone charger , preferably something with a multi-port charger so that you can change your iPhones, Android tablets/Kindle, etc. Buy a multiport charger here
  • Kindle: We love to read books on our Kindle. Grab the new Kindle e-Reader here, and read unlimited books!
  • Leave your work laptop! It’s time to rejuvenate 

To maximize sightseeing carry some healthy snacks with you so that you can explore places and eat healthily. Click to view this awesome care package to take with you on road trips and weekend getaways.  

Bonus: Travel tips for weekend getaways

Weekends are a time to disconnect and reconnect.

Keep your phone and work laptop away. Rewind, connect with your soul, and rejuvenate. 

We have been embarking on weekend getaways for years now. With our busy work schedules, weekends away are always treasured by us. It is our time for us to connect with each other, and enjoy and relax in the lap of nature. No wonder we love going to the Canadian Rockies every other weekend, winters included.

Remember these getaways are also an amazing time to get in touch with friends and family. So invite them to join you. 

We hope you found this post useful. You can grab a copy of weekend trip planner and a packing list below

Happy Planning!

Pin: How to plan a weekend trip effortlessly

Pin for As a busy traveler, it is super important to plan your vacation time well. Read this post to learn how to plan a weekend trip effortlessly and enjoy it!

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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Home » Weekend Getaways » How to Plan a Weekend Getaway

How to Plan a Weekend Getaway

By Author Lance Longwell

Posted on Last updated: June 21, 2023

While long vacations are great, there’s so much beauty in a quick, weekend getaway. What sounds better than using your favorite two days of the week to explore somewhere new?

Weekend vacations have many benefits. For starters, they are an easy way to escape the hassles of real life and unwind for a few days. Between working full time, maintaining a home, raising kids – and maybe all three for many people – life is hectic, and it’s important to take a break!

A road with trees on a vacation weekend

We are huge proponent of quick weekend getaways and try to take as many as possible throughout the year.  A weekend away is key for us to recharge our mental batteries.  These trips are also an essential part of our plan to travel as much as possible.

According to a recent survey, a low-stress weekend getaway can also help improve people’s moods. In fact, almost all survey respondents said that to take a getaway leaves them recharged, relaxed and grateful. And 82 percent of respondents said that a getaway specifically helps them escape winter’s cold weather blues.

Empty beaches like this one are perfect for a weekend away

In addition, a short weekend getaway is more affordable than a long, annual trip. Because you only need to plan for two days of accommodations, a few meals, and entertainment, you can save when compared to the costs of a big vacation. Of course, you may also choose to relax as much as possible, which we highly recommend. And even better: that’s free!

Plan the Best Weekend Away

Make your weekend plan, be flexible about the destination, budget for your getaway trips, keep things simple, focus on your hobbies, watch for weekend getaway deals, make weekends away routine, build short weekend trips on to business trips, take a phone detox, plan a weekend getaway today.

While a weekend away doesn’t require a lot of planning, you’ll want to think through what you are hoping to get out of your short vacation trip so that you can maximize your time. Below are a few things to consider as you plan your fun 48 hours!

If you’re unsure where to start, we are here to give you a rundown of the basics. The good news is, you can even do your weekend planning last minute!

First, you’ll want to identify your budget. Are you in a comfortable place financially to be able to afford travel, hotel, and entertainment or sight-seeing costs? Or do you need to consider a two-day staycation so you can save on the price of accommodations? Either option can be lovely, but you will need to be sure you aren’t breaking the bank.

Cider donuts and apples

Once you decide on your budget, then determine a few top locations to which you’d like to travel. You may have a bucket list of destinations in your head, but with just two days, be sure that you have enough travel time to get to and from your destination. We’d recommend no more than a two- to three-hour plane ride away so as not to eat too much into your time. Save your limited vacation time for a longer trip.

If you are flying somewhere, you’ll then need to book your airline ticket; look at Kayak or a similar flight aggregate site to research the best prices. If you decide to drive, plot out your route and decide when the best time to leave will be. Then think about whether you would like to stay at a hotel or at an Airbnb or vacation rental and book your accommodations once you find the perfect place.

A bedroom in an Airbnb

Now that you have the foundation set, the real fun starts. How do you want to spend your time on your trip? Maybe you want to visit a spa, go wine tasting, shop, or just relax. Whatever it is: do some light planning so your time is well spent.

When you are thinking about where you want to go, keep your mind open. The beauty of a short getaway is that it can lead you to unexpected places. You may find inspiration as you scroll through Instagram and see your friend’s recent trip, you may overhear a colleague discussing a nearby spot they ventured to, or you may find an amazing travel deal.  

With that said, perhaps you want to take a staycation, and there’s certainly nothing wrong with that! At the end of your work week, you won’t have to rush to the airport or worry about fighting traffic on a long road trip. You can start your staycation on your own terms whenever you want it – even right at 5:01 p.m.

The Big Sur Coastal Drive is a perfect weekend trip from the Bay Area

However, if leaving town is a must, do a quick scan of flight prices to nearby destinations to determine the best trip for the weekend you’re looking to get away. You can also research what’s going on in those destinations – for instance, is there a concert or festival coming up you’d like to attend?

Or are you more outdoorsy and want to find the best time to hike popular trails? Making sure you will be able to do what you truly want to do on your vacation will help you pick exactly the right place.

Who you are traveling with can also dictate the destination. If it’s a solo trip, of course you have the say, but if you are planning a weekend getaway with a significant other or friends, they likely have a list of cities or towns they want to visit. Ranking your top two trips and comparing may help you come to a compromise, or maybe you’re lucky and everyone already wants to go to the same place.

Rock formations in Enchanted Rocks State Park

Whatever the case, keeping an open mind and being flexible will help you embrace the spirit of vacation – and with that attitude, you’re sure to have a great time wherever you end up!

If you still need weekend getaway ideas: check out The New York Times’ “36 Hours” column . From U.S. destinations to Europe and beyond, the reporters detail all that you can do in a variety of different locales – and we bet several will catch your eye!  If you need more weekend trip ideas, we also have a whole Weekend Getaways section for you to check out.

It’s easy to plan a weekend getaway, but it can be hard to save up for one amid mortgage or rent payments and all of life’s other bills. In fact, research shows that money stress is a significant travel inhibitor; according to a recent study , many families avoided taking any sort of summer vacation because of day-to-day bills and paying down debt. With some budgeting and forethought, though, you can avoid racking up credit card debt and plan for a fun trip.

A food truck park

To make your travel experience easier on your bottom line, set aside money in a vacation budget before you ever leave town. You can automatically funnel money into a vacations savings account on a bi-weekly basis – even if it’s just $20 – and before you know it, you’ll have a decent amount of money that will help you pay for a hotel or contribute to a flight. My sister-in-law uses this trick so that she always has a dedicated amount of money for vacations in case an opportunity to travel comes up.

We also like tools such as Digit and Qapital that let you save money without thinking about it. These apps can help pool “extra” money into a separate account that you can use for vacation purposes. Similar to a savings account, you can withdraw your money from these accounts when you’re ready to use it; otherwise, set it and forget about it!

As you actively put money away for a weekend getaway, you will be more likely to put it to good use and plan an amazing trip.

The idea of planning a vacation can feel like a lot, especially when you are stressed out at work or at home. Remember that your weekend getaway doesn’t have to be extravagant, especially if you are looking for some rest, relaxation, and a chance to unwind. With two days, keeping things simple is best.

A good way to keep things simple as you plan your weekend getaway is to first determine what you want to do most on your vacation, and then do some light research. For example, if you are traveling to Napa and want to visit wineries, research top vineyards and take note of their hours. Or if you are looking to visit Chicago’s best museums, see which exhibits are open and decide when you will go. The research phase does not have to take a ton of time.

Pinterest can also be a great resource to look at for travel tips, popular places, top restaurants, and more – all in one place. We always look at the site to see what others have to say about weekend getaway destinations that we are looking to visit. Spending just half an hour on Pinterest and doing some searching can help you come up with a list of easy things to do.

Skyline of New York City from Brooklyn - the perfect weekend getaway!

Some of the best weekend getaways that we have taken have been trips without a packed agenda. We pick a destination and go. Since we’re in Philadelphia on the East Coast, we can easily get to New York City, Boston, and Washington, D.C. for a quick trip.

There is so much to do in those cities already that we try to keep things by looking at a few good restaurants and a few main sites we want to see, and then we put on our sneakers and walk around to see what opportunities await us.

Weekend getaways can provide the perfect amount of time for you to indulge in your passions. Do you like landscape photography? Think about a trip focused on a beautiful nature hike.

Dallas Cowboys Stadium from field level

Are sports more your style? Look at your favorite team’s schedule and see if you can attend a nearby game.

One of our friends loves visiting breweries, so she often takes trips to locations where she can go to a handful of breweries in just over two days.

Kegs at a brewery

The sky really is the limit here. And a weekend is the perfect amount of time to spend indulging in what makes you happy. As we’ve said, decide what you want your weekend to revolve around and then put your plans into action.

There are thousands of ways to save on weekend getaways, and thousands of companies who want to help you do so! You can sign up for email newsletters that will deliver travel deals straight to your inbox.

Plan landing over the ocean

A few you may want to check out include Scott’s Cheap Flights which gives you deals from airports of your choice. We’ve used it for a cheap weekend getaway to Europe  before.

In addition to e-newsletters, you can also proactively search for deals from airlines, travel companies, hotels, and more. We are also loyal to OneWorld airlines (American, British Airways, Qatar), and we keep tabs on their travel deals by skimming occasional emails they send.

Meanwhile, Laura’s sister has a goal of visiting all 50 states, so she looks at Scott’s Cheap Flights from time to time. She also monitors Southwest Airlines’ frequent flight deals since they have many flights out of her city. She’s gone to several different destinations, including Boise, New Orleans , and Kansas City just by tracking flight deals.

Wrought-iron balconies in New Orleans, a great weekend getaway

Keeping tabs on top deals may help you uncover a vacation you never dreamed of taking until now.

A weekend getaway doesn’t have to be a one-time thing. If you don’t have a lot of (or any) paid vacation, they are a great way to still get the feeling of getting out of town. And even if you have plenty of paid time off, who doesn’t love a quick escape?

We know several people who love to ski. During the winter, they are able to get away to the mountains several times for a fun weekend ski trips. Perhaps you really enjoy watersports or another outdoor activity. Could you make traveling to the lake a routine during the summer?

An empty run at a ski resort

We also know several people who live in cities that are practically made for weekend getaways: San Diego (where you can escape north to Los Angeles or South to Valle de Guadalupe ), Portland (where you can easily travel to Seattle or Bend), and Austin (where you can go to San Antonio , Houston, Dallas , or even the Texas Hill Country in a few hours). There are literally a million places to go for a weekend away!

Are you scheduled to go on a business trip to a location you’ve never visited? Or maybe you’re going somewhere that you would love to have more time to explore. If you are traveling for work, it’s likely during the week – and with a little planning, you can extend that trip and transform it into a fun weekend.

Consider adding a few vacation days to the beginning or end of your trip so you can turn it into a vacation on your own terms. While you may not get sent to your dream destination all the time, with some research you may find exciting restaurants or nearby towns that are off-the-beaten path to explore.

And what’s even better: you won’t have to foot the entire bill for the trip since your employer will be covering the costs for some of the travel expenses.

The vines in a vineyard in the autumn

We know someone that’s heading to Sonoma, California for a work trip soon. What a perfect destination to take advantage of an add a weekend onto! Even if your business trips are not to picturesque locations, you may be surprised at how easy it is to travel somewhere cool nearby, or there may be unexpected sites in the city you’re going to that you don’t know about yet.

Tacking some extra time onto an already planned trip can be a fun way to be adventurous and take advantage of the distance you’re already traveling.

Part of the beauty of a weekend getaway is in its brevity. You have a short amount of time to fit in a lot of fun. Do you want to spend that valuable time scrolling through your phone?

We get it; smartphones are everywhere, and we admittedly spend plenty of time on ours due to our jobs. But vacation time is about breaking routines, doing new things, and switching up how you usually spend your time.

Travel Addicts blog on laptop

Taking a digital detox has numerous benefits: it can help improve sleep, reduce stress, improve happiness, and more. We highly recommend doing what you can to put your phone down, aside from using it for photos and maps.

If fully unplugging is not feasible or you need to check in with work or house sitters, that’s understandable. Perhaps you do so right after breakfast every day so that it doesn’t disrupt your whole day or take your attention away from what you are doing.

Weekend getaways provide us with a mental break from the day-to-day routine while weaving in a sense of adventure that you get from traditional longer vacations.

A lone palm tree on a beach by the ocean

As you plan, remember that your two-day getaway should be easy and simple. You are likely planning it to escape some of the daily stresses in your life, so take a deep breath and remember it’s supposed to be fun!

What are some weekend getaways you have planned this year? We’d love to hear your favorite places to go for a weekend trip!

planning trip for weekend

Lance Longwell is a travel writer and photographer who has published Travel Addicts since 2008, making it one of the oldest travel blogs. He is a life-long traveler, having visited all 50 of the United States by the time he graduated high school. Lance has continued his adventures by visiting 70 countries on 5 continents – all in search of the world’s perfect sausage. He’s a passionate foodie and enjoys hot springs and cultural oddities. When he’s not traveling (or writing about travel), you’ll find him photographing his hometown of Philadelphia.

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Jewell A Halwachs

Wednesday 9th of February 2022

A hint I picked up from someone else is to save all of our change all year (or longer) to pay for a special treat while vacationing. In two years we had rolled $400.00 worth of coins . It was almost like FREE money. We used the money that time to pay for a Hot Air Balloon ride in Park City, Utah.

Lance Longwell

Thursday 10th of February 2022

Great idea! It is like free money. We'll have to try this.

Peter Jones

Monday 19th of October 2020

Looking at going to gettysburg for a quick 4 day weekend get away in november

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11 Perfect Weekend Getaways in the U.S. and Around the World, According to Travel Advisors

Scott Bay is a magazine editor specializing in travel, architecture, and gear. He was previously an assistant editor at Travel + Leisure . His work has also appeared in Wired , Architectural Digest , Wallpaper , Robb Report , Saveur , Daily Beast , and more.

Sometimes you just need a break — even a short one. The A-List , Travel + Leisure 's group of the world's top travel advisors, have plenty of suggestions for unexpected destinations to explore for a weekend.

From hitting the slopes at Deer Valley to an urban escape in Thessaloniki , Greece, 11 A-List members share under-the-radar weekend vacations around the world you should plan once we are able to freely travel again.

Asheville, North Carolina

"Rent a log cabin near the blue ridge parkway only 20 minutes from downtown. Drink incredible craft brews at Iconic breweries — Fat Tire and Sierra Nevada — listen to local music, shop in the river arts district repurposed from old factories, and dine in some of North Carolina's best restaurants. Don't miss Hole Doughnuts — it will make you forget the words Krispy Kreme." — Jim Augerinos, Perfect Honeymoons

Solvang, California

"A drive from Paso Robles to the charming town of Solvang which transports you to Europe with a nod to Danish heritage present throughout the architecture and wineries. Your drive can entail a stop at Sycamore Hotel Spring on the way to Avila Beach. Dip your toes in the water at Avila Beach or walk the pier, after a wonderful lunch at this charming sea side town. Finish the weekend off with a visit to Hearst Castle for a great getaway!" — Christina Turrini, Frosch

Savannah, Georgia

"Savannah, the oldest city in the stage of Georgia, is a charming coastal escape complete with Antebellum architecture, trendy boutiques, and endless ghost stories. Perfect for a weekend getaway, visitors will be enchanted by the cobblestone streets and Spanish moss-covered trees. Make sure to bring your appetite — Savannah's delicious Southern cuisine will not disappoint." — Kristen Pike, KK Travels Worldwide

Dublin, Ireland

"Dublin is a fantastic place to spend a few days, with a short flight from Boston or New York and the recent exchange rate is very attractive relative to years past." — Ellen LeCompte, Travel Xperts

Urla, Turkey

"The resort town is not too far from Izmir and Cesme. It is one of the most delightful towns and has great vineyards and olive trees — just like Napa and Sonoma. It's a great place relax, unwind and recharge your batteries." — Engin Kadaster, Turkey At It's Best

Songyang, China

"This is a new tea plantation area reachable by high speed rail or by car ride in around three hours from Shanghai. It's little visited. The town is known for its tea plantation, but what I like most is the newest string of architecturally stunning craft shops — a brown sugar craft shop and tofu craft shop. There are workshops where locals actually do their job. They are also artistically stunning spaces set in the middle of farm fields. A very different old town experience from the rest of China. Highly recommend before it becomes too famous." — Mei Zhang, Wild China

Thessaloniki, Greece

"There's no better option for an urban escape that's also easy on the pocketbook than Thessaloniki. It remains largely undiscovered by the crowds, and it is thanks to this relative obscurity that it is still very budget-friendly despite being the second largest city in Greece. Lively and exciting, yet disarmingly cool and laid-back, it offers plenty of excellent restaurants and interesting bars to explore, while there's also plenty of history if you're looking to scratch that culture itch." — Christos Stergiou, True Trips

Madrid, Spain

"Madrid continues to be a great city destination, perfect for a three-day weekend trip. It's easy to get there and straightforward to get around, either on foot or by metro. Hire a guide to follow in the footsteps of Ernest Hemingway and Orson Welles or meet artists and artisans at work in their studios. You'll also explore all the places the guidebooks don't mention and by the end of the day feel like a real 'madrileño.'" — Nigel Hack, Madrid and Beyond

Deer Valley, Utah

"Deer Valley has great hiking, skiing, dining, and spas. Some of the best resorts are nearly unattainable during winter months, but more available, and cheaper, in the summer — another great time to visit the area. It's a very easy drive from Salt Lake City, which in turn, is nonstop from many cities." — Louisa Gehring, Gehring Travel

Santa Fe, New Mexico

"Santa Fe is a multi-cultural wonder in northern New Mexico. It's known as the Southwestern art scene's epicenter, boasting stellar dining, often consisting of the areas infamous Hatch hot green chili. The city has a surprising opera and arts scene, skiing 15 minutes away during winter, and an annual September pagan festival called Zozobra which is like a Burning Man festival." — John Clifford, International Travel Management

How to Plan a Weekend Getaway the Right Way

Disclaimer: This post might contain affiliate links, which means we get a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you).

Learn how to plan an amazing weekend getaway in 10 simple steps!

Being individuals who both work full time, we’ve learned how to maximize our weekends for travel because vacation and free time can be scarce. 

Now, anytime we go on weekend trips our family and friend compliment how much we’re able to do and see SO MUCH in just two or three days. And we want to share with you how we do this!  

It’s been a Wednesday night when we’ve decided that we’re going to do a weekend getaway that coming weekend. And we made it happen. How? Well, this post is going to tell help you to plan a weekend getaway in no time! 

For us, spontaneously planning a weekend trip didn’t start out smoothly at first. We’ve planned, executed, made mistakes, and made the most of our weekend getaways. And now we think we’ve mastered how to plan a weekend trip. That’s why we’ve created this guide for planning your perfect weekend trip. Don’t forget to get your weekend getaway planner guide here so you can follow along! 

So, how do we plan our weekend trips?  Let’s get to it. 

10 Tips and Steps to Planning the Perfect Weekend Trip

Over the past three years of travel blogging and traveling in between school and work , we had plenty of successful weekend trips. Here are some of the favorites that we’ve written about.

Here are some of our most successful weekend getaways!

  • Romantic Weekend Trip to Erie
  • Wine Filled Weekend in the Finger Lakes
  • Weekend trip to Canton Ohio
  • Two Days in Cincinnati
  • Three Days in Davis West Virginia
  • Weekend Getaways from Pittsburgh
  • Weekend in Deep Creek Maryland
  • Weekend Camping Trip to the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon

How to plan a weekend trip in no time

1. think about what kind of trip you want.

If you didn’t download your weekend getaway planner guide get it now!

If you decided to plan a weekend getaway, there must have been a reason right? Are you looking to get off the grid so you can forget about your job for two days, or are you looking to visit that one city you’ve always wanted to go to?

TIP: If you need help getting the creative juices flowing during planning, check out some of these awesome travel quotes to inspire wanderlust!

When planning a weekend trip, think about what kind of trip you’re looking for. This will help you narrow down selecting a destination and get the creativity flowing. Once you know what kind of trip you’re hoping for, start looking for destinations, whether it’s cities, small towns, or outdoor locations.

Hopefully, now you know what kind of trip you want, we can come up with a list of destinations on your weekend getaway planner guide.

2. Don’t know where to go? Get on Googling

Here is one strategy that we’ve implemented when looking for weekend getaways. We almost always drive, so we look for cities and towns that are within a four-hour driving distance of home. Browse Google Maps for cities, parks, towns, and destinations that could be realistically visited in one weekend. See what sparks your interest and jot them down on our brainstorm list.

3. Pick a realistic destination

Now that you have a list of potential destinations, let’s get to select one! Stay on Google and browse the destination for inspiration to help make a decision!

Pro Tip: We usually base our destination decisions around if there is something specific we want to visit or if there is some kind of event we want to attend. We have actually planned a lot of our weekend getaways around sporting events we want to attend, such as going to a Columbus Blue Jackets game and making a weekend Columbus trip out of it. Or when we visited Cleveland , we went there knowing we wanted to tour the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Think about if there are any sights, activities, or destinations like that near you!

4. Browse the Local Travel Guides for Inspiration to Learn about Your Destinations

Now that you have selected a destination, this is where you get to start planning your weekend trip. In the next section of your weekend getaway planner guide, start browsing the internet for things to do. We usually start with the Google Travel Guide recommendations if there are any, and then we move onto Pinterest and travel blogs for inspiration. Here are some of the categories of things we look for when trying to find things to do on our weekend trips.

  • Look for local foods and local recommended restaurants
  • Browse tourism boards for local events
  • See if there are any National or State Parks nearby
  • Brose landmarks and sightseeing (we always check for boat tours!)
  • Look on Groupon for deals and unique events and activities
  • Find museums

Search keywords like:

  • Unique things to do in XXX
  • Must-try restaurants/foods in XXX
  • Sightseeing in XXXX
  • Museums in XXXX
  • Local’s guide to XXX

Don’t forget to check out activity booking services like Get Your Guide and Groupon for great deals on local activities, tours, and museums! In the past, these sites have helped us discover off the map activities!

Search GetYourGuide

5. start building your itinerary by mapping it our.

When planning out your weekend trip itinerary, it’s important to consider the logistical details of how it’s going to play out. Consider travel time to get to each activity, parking, and how far the different activities are from one another. It doesn’t make sense to add additional travel time to your day, so try to cluster the activities that are located near one another during the same time blocks of your day.

Have Google Maps open for each activity so you can keep track of where everything is, so you can create a logical itinerary!

6. Plan to pack light

Since you’ll only be away for a few days, packing light is going to make your travel much easier! When packing, think about what activities you’ll be doing to narrow down what kind of clothes to bring. The hotel has a pool? Bring a swimsuit. Going hiking? Don’t forget hiking shoes.

Read more about packing in our packing for any trip guide .

7. Consider if your trip will be Friday night to Sunday or Saturday to Sunday

One thing to consider when planning a weekend trip is when you’ll be arriving in your destination. Will you be leaving right after work on Friday to drive there and stay Friday night, or will you drive early Saturday morning. This consideration usually arises if there is something specific you want to do on Friday night in the destination, or if the transit to the destination is going to take a while and cut into your activity time on Saturday.

Don’t forget to download your free weekend trip planner!

Consider if it is more beneficial to leave Friday night or early Saturday to get to your weekend destination. Budget also can help make this decision.

8. Book Certain Events and Activities Ahead of Time

If there is anything that you know for sure you want to visit in at your destination, getting tickets ahead of time is a good idea, especially if a museum or event requires it. Local events will sellout and museums can have timed ticking. Not booking these things early can throw a wrench in your plans. But don’t overbook yourself as we said earlier.

Hotel Booking Tips

When booking a hotel or Airbnb, location can be key. We usually select a hotel or Airbnb based on a few things, especially if we are visiting a city. If you’re visiting a more remote location, these things might not be as much of a priority.

  • Location: Location can be key for weekend trips. Think about where the things are that you’re planning on doing. Do you want to walk everywhere? Drive? Saving money by staying outside of town? Consider all of these factors when picking your hotel or Airbnb for your weekend trip.
  • Included breakfast: when we go on weekend getaways we usually don’t go out for breakfast since we plan so much during the day. So an included breakfast adds more time to our itinerary and lowers the overall cost of our weekend.

When looking at hotels, it’s a good idea to browse multiple websites for the best deals. We personally love bouncing back and forth between Airbnb and Booking for hotels and accommodation deals.

9. Make it an extended weekend away

Anytime we travel, we usually wish we could spend more time in a destination. So if it’s possible, making a weekend trip into an extended weekend trip is always a plus for your planning. Even one more day can add on lots more fun!

10. Be Flexible

The biggest tip for weekend trips that we can offer is to be flexible. If you’re visiting this place for the first time, who knows, something spontaneous might strike you when you get there! Traveling is always going to spark unexpected inspiration so be flexible with your plans if something special comes up.

Where will your next weekend getaway take you?!

We hope this weekend getaway planner guide was able to help you plan your perfect trip! Let us know where you’re going to next in the comments!

Like this post? Give it a share!

Start planning your next trip.

  • Plan the best weekend getaway ever !
  • How to perfectly pack everything for your next trip
  • How to prepare for any trip
  • Book your accommodation : For booking hotels, we like to use Hotels , Booking , and Agoda . For more unique stays, we like to use Airbnb .
  • Book your flights : For booking flights, we like to use Kiwi or Student Universe to check for deals.
  • Activities and tours : Our go-to resources for booking activities and tours are: Groupon , GetYourGuide , and Viator . Also, check if your city is available on CityPass for extra discounts.
  • Luggage : When we travel, we love using our SwissGear Energie series luggage set . This hardshell luggage is lightweight, spacious, and affordable! We love how much of our stuff can fit in this luggage .

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How to Plan a Weekend Trip

Part of a laptop and part of a notebook for planning a weekend trip

Are you thinking about planning a weekend getaway?

The weekend is a great time to hit the road and see some sights. And, it’s less stressful than planning a long vacation .

A weekend trip is good for you in many different ways. Whether you choose to visit a city, relax in a small beach town, or go into the mountains, you’ll return home feeling better.

Of course, it goes without saying that a little bit of planning is essential for a stress-free vacation, even if it’s just a short weekend getaway.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through how to plan a weekend trip. I’ll discuss every step of the process, from choosing your ideal destination to making the most of your limited time away.

Planning a Weekend Trip

1. choosing the perfect destination.

3 pictures of destinations for a weekend trip

Selecting the right destination is the first crucial step in planning your weekend getaway.

Keep in mind various factors such as proximity, your interests, and the weather.

Are you seeking a serene beach retreat, an adventurous mountain hike, or an exciting city break? Research suitable destinations that align with your preferences.

Travel blogs, social media, and personal recommendations can be valuable tools in this process.

Check if it’s a good time of year to visit the destination, and whether there are any events happening that might make your trip even more special.

  • The Best Weekend Getaways in the US
  • A Weekend in Amsterdam
  • A Long Weekend in Adelaide, Australia
  • 2 Days in Quebec City, Canada

2. Setting a Budget for Your Weekend Getaway

a white sheet of paper, a pen, a calculator and a plant

Even though it’s only a weekend trip, the costs can add up quickly if you don’t plan carefully.

Set a budget to ensure you don’t overspend. Consider all the expenses, including transportation, accommodation, activities, and meals.

To create a realistic budget , plan ahead and try to stick to it by making conscious spending decisions.

Airfare, hotels, and rental cars tend to be more expensive when looking for a spontaneous, last minute trip.

If you can plan your weekend getaway at least a few months in advance you’ll generally be able to find more deals. But, even for a last minute weekend getaway you can find good offers.

I always recommend signing up for newsletters of your favorite airlines and car rental agencies, since they will often email special deals.

I use multi-search booking engines to find the best prices for flights, car rentals, and hotels. For flights I use Skyscanner.com , for cars Rentalcars.com , and for hotels I use Booking.com .

  • How to Travel Cheaply in the USA
  • Visiting New York City on a Budget

3. Booking Transportation

the wing of an airplane with a blue sky above and some pink clouds below due to the sunset

Choosing the right mode of transportation is a key consideration when planning your weekend trip.

Whether it’s a car, train, bus, or flight, each option has its pros and cons.

Because you’re only going away for a weekend, I’d say it’s important to find convenient transport options that won’t take up too much time.

If you plan to fly somewhere and driving to the airport is the best option, book airport parking early. And to avoid the hefty prices that come with parking, park at an off-airport parking lot. For example, off-site Logan Airport parking will cost you from $10 to $15.50 per day.

As I mentioned before, I recommend using Skyscanner.com to book flights, and Rentalcars.com to rent a car.

Don’t forget to also research how you’ll get around once you’ve reached your destination .

How will you get from the airport to your hotel?

If there are buses, metros, or other forms of public transport, find out how to use them in advance. And check whether they only run at certain times of the day. Is Uber available at your destination or is there a different app for taxis?

If you’re driving to your destination, find out if parking is widely available and whether it’s paid or free parking. On one of my most recent weekend getaways there was only paid street parking around my accommodation, and the parking meters only took coins. I had no coins when I arrived late in the evening…

Having all your transportation researched and booked before you travel takes away a lot of stress!

Also Read: How to Find the Cheapest Flights Anywhere in the World

4. Finding Accommodation

a swimming pool surrounded by a wooden deck and luxury sun loungers, with a white sandy beach and azure blue sea in the background

Your accommodation can significantly impact your overall experience during the trip.

Hotels, vacation rentals, and charming B&Bs offer different vibes and amenities .

Choose your lodging wisely based on location, budget, and the type of experience you are looking for.

I use Booking.com for my weekend getaways. They tend to offer the best prices and have a wide range of accommodation options from hotels and B&Bs to private apartments, cabins, and even some really unique places to stay such as treehouses, retro trailers, etc.

If you’re planning a weekend trip on a budget, consider staying in a hostel. I’ve written a separate article about the pros and cons of staying in a hostel .

And my final tip, if you don’t want unpleasant surprises when you arrive at your accommodation, always read the reviews before booking. Especially any negative ones.

  • The Most Important Things to Look For When Booking a Hotel
  • Where to Stay on Catalina Island – A Perfect Weekend Getaway
  • Unique Hotels in Southern California
  • 10 Cool Hotels in Amsterdam
  • The Best Places to Stay in Valencia, Spain

5. Planning the Itinerary

A canal with several boats surrounded by houses and trees

You only have a weekend, so it becomes extra important to think about what you want to do at your chosen getaway destination.

Just relax by the pool and enjoy some nice dinners? Or do you want to see the best a city has to offer? Or maybe you’re looking for some unique things to do on your weekend trip?

I know from experience that my shorter getaways turned out better when I researched ahead of time what the best things were to see and do in my chosen destination.

Getyourguide.com and Viator.com are good websites to find the best things to do in almost any destination in the world.

Walking tours (many cities offer free walking tours) are a great way to get to know a city.

Also Read: The Benefits of Group Travel & Organized Tours

Blogs, local tourism websites, and Youtube can also be helpful to find out the best things to do, the best places to eat, etc.

I’d recommend booking the activities you really don’t want to miss in advance. But don’t pack too much in. Allow time to just relax, enjoy and see what unexpected things happen on your weekend trip.

  • 3 Days in Athens – A Complete Itinerary
  • A Perfect Quebec City Itinerary
  • The Best 4 Day Paris Itinerary

an opened suitcase with several items

Ah, packing—the task everyone loves to procrastinate.

To avoid last-minute stress, pack light and efficiently. Remember to pack for the weather and your planned activities.

Don’t forget your essentials, but try not to overpack either. Rolling clothes and using packing cubes can be a game-changer in optimizing your luggage space.

And if you’re not sure what to pack, simply Google ‘What to pack for [your destination]’ and you’ll most likely find several useful articles.

  • Packing for a Trip to Europe
  • What to Bring on a Hike

7. Preparing for Your Weekend Trip

three American passports

Before going on your weekend getaway, make sure you have all the necessary travel documents .

Do you need to bring a passport and driving license? And do you have suitable travel insurance for this trip?

I always make sure I have a copy of my important documents stored on my phone as well, just in case.

If you take any prescription drugs, make sure you bring enough for the weekend. And bring some basics such as painkillers and band-aids.

  • What to Look For in Travel Insurance
  • Why You Should Use a VPN While Traveling

8. Making the Most of Your Weekend Trip

silhouette of two adults and two kids with the sunset in the background

A weekend getaway is a fantastic way to escape daily hassles and unwind over the weekend.

This is exactly why you shouldn’t overcommit. If you try to squeeze everything in, your agenda will be jammed from morning until night. Keep things simple and enjoy your weekend getaway!

Be open to changing your plans if an opportunity presents itself.

Strike a balance between sightseeing, relaxation, and exploration. Engage with locals, immerse yourself in the culture, and be open to trying new experiences. It’s these small moments that make your weekend trip truly unforgettable.

Conclusion – Planning Your Weekend Getaway

That’s it. That’s all it takes to plan a perfect short getaway.

Choose a destination that fits your needs, set a budget, book transportation and accommodation wisely, research activities, pack light, and prepare for unforeseen circumstances.

But most importantly, enjoy every moment and make unforgettable memories!

  • 2 Days in LA – What Not to Miss on a Weekend Trip to Los Angeles
  • A Weekend Getaway to Big Bear Lake, California
  • Renting a Yacht in Dubai – A Unique Weekend Getaway
  • 5 Tips to Make Travel Planning Easier
  • The Benefits of Traveling With Family

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How to Plan the Perfect Weekend Away

Guide to planning the perfect weekend away.

If you missed travel during the pandemic and are keen to start getting out there again, a weekend away is the ideal place to start. Get dreaming about your next weekend getaway, whether it’s with friends, your partner, family, or by yourself.

Here’s how to plan the perfect weekend away!

The Joy of a Weekend Getaway

Been at home too long / too much in the past few years? Same. Weekends at home are amazing, but not All. The. Time.

A weekend away provides the opportunity to escape from day-to-day routines and domestic drudgery. It’s a chance to recharge, refocus and reconnect with whoever you’re with (including yourself if you’re having a glorious solo trip).

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Why Planning a Weekend Away is Important

Spontaneity is fun and all, but when you’ve only got 2-3 days to play with, planning is everything! If you want to have a great weekend away, you need to plan, and plan well. Once you’ve settled on your destination, have fun researching all the things you might want to do there (as well as the stuff you’re happy to leave out).

Trying to plan the perfect weekend away can be a challenge. You may not know where to go, what to do or how much time and money you should set aside for your trip. Proper planning will help you stay on top of it all and make sure that you get everything you want from your trip.

A weekend away is a great opportunity to recharge your batteries, enjoy a mini-adventure and have some quality time. Here’s how to start planning that weekend getaway:

1 Decide What You Want From Your Weekend Away

The “perfect” weekend away will be different for everyone. It obviously depends on what you enjoy doing, where you want to go and the time of year. Take the time to consider what you’d like your trip to look like.

Action-packed or laid-back? Far-flung destination or closer to home? Planes, trains or automobiles? Urban vibe or rural idyll? Getting a good idea of the type of trip you want will help you pick the perfect destination.

2 Set Your Weekend Away Budget

Before you pick your weekend getaway destination, first set your budget. Travel, accommodation, and spending money needs will obviously vary hugely depending on where you go, so deciding on your budget first will help you to narrow down destination ideas.

Bigger budget doesn’t always mean better! If your budget is small, a city break within a few hours drive of where you live can be a really fun weekend away.

3 Choose Your Weekend Away Destination

This could be either the easiest or hardest step, depending on whether there’s somewhere you’re already set on going. If you’re keen to visit a particular city or attraction, then skip straight to the researching and booking stage!

If you don’t have any fixed ideas, then pick a type of break (city / countryside / coast / theme park / etc) and enjoy researching possible destinations. If you’re flying, start by checking out the best deals on flights from your local airport. You can use https://www.kayak.com/explore to see deals from where you live.

Keep in mind, the perfect weekend away is not just about where you are going, but also what you can do when you get there. You might find a great deal on a hotel somewhere but not have anything to do nearby. Get the balance of location and activities right and you’re well on your way to an amazing weekend away.

How to plan the perfect weekend away

4 Choose When To Go On a Weekend Getaway

The obvious answer to when to go on a weekend away is when you have the time off work and the money to spend. But remember that not all weekends are equal: weekends during holiday seasons are busier and more expensive than others, some destinations will be a really different experience depending on the season, etc.

If you have the flexibility to travel outside of school holidays and holiday weekends, then take it! Your trip will likely be cheaper and less crowded.

5 Research Your Destination Before You Go

Once you’ve decided where you want to go – and how you’ll get there – it’s time to get researching (my favourite part of planning a trip!)

Do your homework now and it will pay off when you get to your destination. First on your list should be researching the best places to stay (which areas, hotels, apartments etc) and what the transport options are like nearby. Is it walkable? A great deal on a hotel won’t seem so great if it’s not central and you end up having to spend loads of time on public transport or blow a fortune on taxis or Ubers.

Next up should be the sights and activities you want to see and do. Get your must-do items on a list and then add in any extras you’d like to do if you have the time.

You can also start checking out the best restaurants, cafes and bars for your trip. Other things to research might be the parks and beaches, walks, and other free things to do.

6 Book Your Accommodation In Advance

Even if you love to stay as flexible and spontaneous as possible when you travel, the limited time you have on a weekend away means you don’t want to eat into that time finding accommodation when you arrive.

Make your weekend more relaxing by booking your accommodation in advance – and by staying in one place the whole weekend. Moving about will also cut into your fun time!

Depending on where you’re going, you don’t have to stick just to hotels. If you’re going to a rural or coastal location, then holiday cottages, guesthouses, campsites are all good options. And you’ll find Airbnb rentals available in just about every destination.

Booking your accommodation in advance will also usually secure you the best rate.

7 Make a Plan For Each Day

With just a few days to play with, it will really help to make the most of your time if you come up with a rough plan for each day. If you’ve already got your must-do lists of activities, tours, restaurants, attractions etc, then this should be pretty easy. Remember to factor in opening/closing times and travel time in between locations.

If your plans are weather-dependant, then you might want to leave this until the day before you go so you have the most up-to-date forecast.

If you’re planning a laid-back weekend away, then of course you can include things like an afternoon of people-watching at a destination café. It’s your weekend and you’ll know what fits your plans and mood.

8 Book Your Must-Do Activities Before You Go

If there are certain things that you definitely want to do on your trip, then book them in advance! This will help you plan your time, but also avoid any disappointment of getting there to see a Sold Out sign.

Same goes for any restaurants you want to visit. Book a table now so you don’t miss out – and enjoy looking forward to it.

9 What To Pack For a Weekend Away

The best packing rule for a weekend away is pack light! (And I say this as someone who finds it really hard to pack light.) You don’t need 10 different outfit choices or 6 pairs of shoes. Try to pack one weather-flexible outfit per day (layers are your friend!) and comfortable walking shoes.

My recommendations for weekend packing are:

  • A lightweight suitcase or holdall
  • Packing cubes – they make it so easy to organise your luggage!
  • Your favourite walking shoes
  • One outfit per day (with layers for temperature changes)
  • Nightwear and underwear
  • A lightweight day-bag – preferably a backpack to avoid sore shoulders
  • Lightweight rain jacket
  • Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen for hot weather
  • Hat, scarf and gloves for cold weather
  • Travel-sized toiletries and basic makeup items
  • Universal plug adaptor
  • Portable battery pack for phone
  • Book or kindle
  • Wallet / cash / passport / tickets
  • Guidebook / map / notes about your destination

Hope you have fun planning your perfect weekend getaway!

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It’s awesome that you talked about planning a weekend getaway trip and what we’d consider first. I want to surprise my girlfriend for her birthday in two weeks, so I’d like to take her on a short but luxurious trip, and I think your guide will definitely help me out. Thanks for explaining we must set our budget before choosing our trip’s accommodation.

This was very helpful I have already started to make a list of what to do on a boring weekend.

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planning trip for weekend

Plan Your Perfect Trip!

Planapple helps you create , organize , access and share all your vacation plans, what's planapple (watch this short video & see).

Play Video

How Planapple Simplifies Travel Planning

Organize ideas.

(Jotting a list of vacation ideas)

Collect your vacation ideas in an online trip notebook, and keep everything organized in one place.

Planapple is like a travel binder that organizes your vacation plans, with sections for where to stay, eat, play, and more.

That's where Planapple comes in. A web travel binder of sorts, Planapple helps you collect your ideas, possibilities, and plans — and saves them all in one place, organized and manageable.

Save things into your Planapple travel binder directly from sites like TripAdvisor, HomeAway, VRBO, Yahoo Travel, Yelp, and even email.

Planapple even creates a custom map tailored to your plans, so you can actually see which hotel is closest to your daily destinations!

Plan Together

(Friends giving the thumbs-up sign)

Discuss and decide your ideal itinerary with your tripmates.

Planapple helps you discuss things like which hotel to book

Planapple eliminates the communication challenges and email negotiations, making group planning far simpler.

Planapple's itinerary includes a day-by-day calendar, showing where you're staying, what you're doing, and even a countdown to your departure

And, as your burgeoning itinerary comes together, it's all captured in your Planapple binder for you and your tripmates to see, so no one misses out on one juicy detail.

Carry Your Plans

(Planapple smartphone app with your current trip to Hawaii)

Carry your plans on your mobile device —  or access them anywhere.

The Planapple mobile app, running on an iPhone, shows your travel plans grouped into categories like Lodging, Dining, Attractions, and Transportation

Planapple's mobile app puts your plans right in your pocket. Access your entire trip: itinerary, bookmarks, addresses, phone numbers, emails, even discussions with your co-travelers. (And Planapple can download it all to your phone before you go, avoiding scary international data charges.)

A woman lounging at a beach resort is checking her Planapple plans on her iPad

And, if you're a paper person, you can print your plans just as easily and take them anywhere you go. We get it.

Share With Friends

(Family and friends excited about your travels)

Create recommendations to share on Pinterest and Facebook.

A Planapple user's favorite places in San Francisco, complete with photos and a map

Planapple makes it easy to share what you did, where you went, and what you liked (or didn't!). Offer up your entire itinerary or just a few highlights — either way your friends will marvel at your travel-planning prowess. After all, what good is finding something wonderful if you can't scream it from the tippy top of the World Wide Web?

For family vacations, holidays abroad, or group trips of any sort… from a weekend getaway to an adventure across countries and continents… it's easy to plan your perfect trip with Planapple.

Ready to get going?

What is planapple.

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The Best Weekend Getaways to Take Right Now

Here's where to spend a few blissful days for that well-deserved break.

best weekend trips 2020

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Stowe, Vermont

best weekend trips 2020

Stowe may be a popular ski destination, but it's equally appealing in the fall with its abundance of outdoor pursuits. And, obviously, the foliage alone is reason enough to visit. The 68-room Topnotch Resort sits on an expansive 120 acres with views of Mount Mansfield. Hotel activities include horseback riding, ATV tours, biking, wagon rides, and, for something a little more relaxing, a lovely spa.

Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

best weekend trips 2020

Want to escape to a quaint New England seaside village? Look no further than Martha's Vineyard, with its miles of beaches and historic houses. Stay in Edgartown, a former whaling port, and you'll have access to shops, galleries, and restaurants galore. The Christopher is a chic boutique hotel with just 15 rooms that mix modern design with a classic New England aesthetic. For a seamless—and fast (read: no traffic)—trip from the New York area, book a flight on Tradewind Aviation.

Read Reviews The Christopher

Telluride, Colorado

best weekend trips 2020

It is a bit of a trek to get to this Colorado hideaway, but so worth it for its unlimited supply of fresh mountain air. The Madeline Hotel & Residences, an Auberge Resort , is surrounded on three sides by the majestic San Juan Mountains. Horseback ride through Colorado's backcountry, go fly fishing, cycle the mountains, or simply let the hotel set up a picnic feast for you in the middle of a scenic alpine meadow. However you choose to spend your days, you're guaranteed to return home refreshed.

Read Reviews Madeline Hotel & Residents, Auberge Resorts Collection

Washington, Connecticut

best weekend trips 2020

A quick two-hour drive from New York City, Washington, Connecticut has long been a retreat for a very discerning, moneyed crowd, because of its rolling hills, historic architecture, and proximity to the city. Soak that all in at the grand Mayflower Inn & Spa, an Auberge Resort , set on 58 acres of manicured gardens and woodland. There's plenty to do, including hiking, fly-fishing, archery, tennis, and croquet. In 2021, for its 100th anniversary, the hotel was refreshed by celebrated designer Celerie Kemble.

Read Reviews Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection

Whitefish, Montana

lone mountain and big sky montana at night

For a more adventurous weekend getaway, the mountain town of Whitefish, Montana offers four seasons of activities—from skiing Whitefish Mountain to hiking through Glacier National Park. Book a stay at the Lodge at Whitefish Lake , a classic mountain lodge that offers suites in the main building as well as standalone luxury homes on the property.

Read Reviews Lodge at Whitefish Lake

Malibu, California

best weekend trips 2020

This 27-mile stretch of sparkling ocean and beach is the epitome of barefoot luxury, which is why so many Hollywood A-listers own homes here. Hotels are pretty scarce, all the more lending to Malibu's locals-only vibe. Stay at the 47-room Malibu Beach Inn , located right on the water on a strip of coastline nicknamed Billionaire's Beach for all of its famous homeowners, like Larry Ellison, who owns 10 properties. For a real splurge, book a room at the intimate 16-room Nobu Ryokan , an oasis like no other that marries serene Japanese minimalism with the iconic California coast.

Read Reviews Malibu Beach Inn

Read Reviews Nobu Ryokan Malibu

Annapolis, Maryland

annapolis, maryland

Just 45 minutes outside of Washington, D.C., Annapolis feels a world apart. Yes, it's home to the United States Naval Academy, but it's far more than a college town. Embrace its nautical legacy with a visit to the Annapolis Maritime Museum, followed by an afternoon out on the water. And then enjoy Maryland's famous crabs for dinner before retiring to 134 Prince , a luxury inn in a Dutch Colonial home.

Read Reviews 134 Prince

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

autumn colors

Massachusetts' Berkshires are a year-round destination full of scenic hikes, stellar art museums, like MASS MoCA and the Clark Art Institute, and fun seasonal programming, like the region's famous Tanglewood concert series. It's also a hotbed for wellness resorts, including Canyon Ranch Lenox , which is centered around a Gilded Age mansion, and Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa , which is home to a 29,000-square-foot spa.

Read Review s Canyon Ranch Lenox

Read Reviews Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa

best weekend trips from us 2020

For East Coasters, Bermuda makes for a perfect weekend getaway. It's just a two-hour flight from NYC and Washington, D.C., meaning it basically takes less time to get there than it does to drive out to the Hamptons. Once you're on the island, head to The Loren at Pink Beach if you're in the mood for a little solitude. The property's one- and three-bedroom villas have their own private pools, making them prime spots for lounging and sipping on Bermuda's famed rum swizzles.

Read Reviews The Loren at Pink Beach

Bar Harbor, Maine

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A gateway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is everything you'd want from a coastal New England town, from stellar seafood restaurants to a bustling harbor from which you can easily hop on a boat for the day. The Primrose is a cottage-style inn built in 1878, but completely refreshed with new decor in 2020.

Read Reviews The Primrose

The North Fork, New York

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The South Fork of Long Island (aka the Hamptons and Montauk) may be buzzier, but for a more low-key, quiet, and down-to-earth alternative, head to the North Fork. Oysters at Little Creek Oyster Farm in Greenport are a must, as are the homemade pies at Briermere Farms in Riverhead. Then spend your afternoons visiting the area's many wineries, such as Bedell, Sparkling Pointe, and Kontokosta before retiring to the Sound View Greenport , a chic hotel where every room looks out onto the Long Island Sound and has direct access to the private beach.

Read Reviews Sound View Greenport

Asheville, North Carolina

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Drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway on your way to Asheville—the fall foliage is particularly spectacular, though the views are majestic no matter the season. There, you'll want to spend plenty of time at the impressive Biltmore Estate, the largest private home in the country, built by George Vanderbilt at the end of the 19th century. While you can't stay in the home itself, you can stay on the property at the Inn on Biltmore Estate , which grants you access to the Biltmore gardens, Antler Hill Village, and the Biltmore Winery.

Read Reviews Inn on Biltmore Estate

Asbury Park, New Jersey

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When the Asbury Hotel opened in 2016, it promised to bring about a much classier era to the oft-maligned Jersey Shore—and, in particular, the city of Asbury Park. It's just an hour away from New York City, but will feel like a proper vacation. Aside from the beach, which is a block away, the Asbury has plenty of al fresco spaces fit for play, including an expansive rooftop space that screens outdoor movies.

Read Reviews The Asbury Hotel

Texas Hill Country

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Easily accessible from both Austin and San Antonio, Texas Hill Country is filled with quaint towns, wineries, and, in the spring, fields of blossoming bluebonnets. Treat yourself to a wellness weekend at the Sage Hill Inn & Spa , a 16-room luxury property set on 88 acres just 25 miles outside of Austin. Spend your days meandering the hiking trails, getting a massage at the spa, or playing a game of pickleball on the courts.

Read Reviews Sage Hill Inn & Spa

Golden Isles, Georgia

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Located along Georgia's Atlantic coast between Savannah and Jacksonville, Florida, Jekyll Island is one of the barrier islands comprising the Golden Isles. Here, you can summer like the Vanderbilts, Morgans, Pultizers, and Rockefellers once did at the Jekyll Island Club Resort . There are loads of leisure activities, 20-plus miles of paved bicycle exploration, and two open-air restaurants. It's easy to see why some of the great American dynasties returned here year after year.

Read Reviews Jekyll Island Club Resor t

The Finger Lakes, New York

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The West Coast might get the lion's share of attention when it comes to wine regions, but the Finger Lakes is perfect for a weekend away for East Coasters or Midwesterners. Explore the eleven lakes, the charming towns that surround them, and the scenic gorges. Make your home base Aurora on Cayuga Lake. It's home to the Inns of Aurora , a collection of five boutique hotels in historic buildings.

Read Reviews Inns of Aurora

Mackinac Island, Michigan

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Retreat to Michigan's Mackinac Island for a leisurely weekend in what might feel like a bygone era. The island, located in between the state's Lower and Upper Peninsulas on Lake Huran, has banned cars, resulting in quite a peaceful atmosphere. Stay at the historic Grand Hotel , which bills its 660-foot-long porch as the world's longest.

Read Reviews Grand Hotel

Sedona, Arizona

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Sedona has the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation—the hiking is superb, as are the spa resorts. The 70-acre Enchantment Resort has the best of both worlds, with 50 hiking trails and an extraordinary destination spa called Mii Amo. (As of September 2022, the spa is closed for renovations, but will reopen in late 2022 or early 2023.) The property is also close to downtown Sedona, where you can get your fill of shopping between art galleries and funky boutiques.

Read Reviews Enchantment Resort

Lexington, Kentucky

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Kentucky has two major claims to fame: horse racing and bourbon. You'll find both in and around Lexington, between the city's famous Keeneland Race Course and the 15 distilleries within 45 miles of the city. While in town, stay at the ultra-modern 21c Museum Hotel Lexington , which also functions as a museum.

Read Reviews 21c Museum Hotel Lexington

Cape May, New Jersey

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Cape May is perhaps the most charming of all of New Jersey's beach towns, thanks to the colorful Victorian-era houses that line its streets. Spend the day at the beach or peruse the shops of the Washington Street pedestrian mall, which is particularly festive in December. Congress Hall is the grande dame in this seaside resort town, and it's been hosting guests since 1816.

Read Reviews Congress Hall

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Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

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Stefanie Waldek is a Brooklyn-based writer covering architecture, design, and travel. She's worked on staff at Architectural Digest, ARTnews, and Oyster.com, a TripAdvisor company, and has contributed to Condé Nast Traveler, The Washington Post, Design Milk, and Hunker, among others. When she's not dreaming about midcentury chairs, you can find her re-watching The X-Files,  likely in an airport lounge or on a plane.

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Home » Vacations

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How to Plan a Vacation: 12 Tips for Planning the Perfect Trip

We all could use more vacations. That should go without saying. But as far as planning our next great trip goes, well, let’s just say sometimes we end up needing a vacation from planning our vacation.

And let’s face it, some of us have been out of the vacation planning game for a long time now. 

Between travel restrictions, being married to work, or simply being a terrible planner, you’re here because you’re struggling to put together a solid plan for your next vacay.

But there’s no need to stress. We’ve put together 12 helpful tips to take you from troubled to triumphant and leave you with a foolproof plan for how to tackle your vacation planning one step at a time.

Table of Contents

1. choose your destination.

  • 2. Pick Your Travel Partners

3. Determine Your Budget

4. decide when you’ll go, 5. research travel deals, 6. ask for time off, 7. find a great place to stay, 8. research the area, 9. plan your itinerary (or don’t), 10. get your documents in order, 11. decide on travel insurance, 12. minimize travel risks.

When planning a trip, the first step is one of the most fun … deciding where you want to go for your vacation. The options here are endless, from vibrant and energetic cities to magnificent national parks and palm-studded islands.

Whatever you’re looking for, you can find the perfect travel destination to make your dream vacation a reality.

planning trip for weekend

It doesn’t even have to be a specific place to start. If you find yourself too spoiled for choice, try narrowing it down first by region to give yourself multiple destinations to choose from. 

Suppose you know you want to have a boozy getaway in wine country. Then you can start narrowing down your travel destinations to include places like Napa Valley, Bordeaux, and Tuscany. 

Or maybe you want a relaxing vacation in the tropics. Then you know you can cross off most of the continental US and start looking to places like the Caribbean for your ultimate getaway.

You don’t have to start off married to a specific destination just yet.

In fact, it may be better to start with only a vague idea instead. 

This way, you can adjust your plans to allow for changes in your budget and your time-off schedule and score the best deals possible for your trip.

2. Pick Your Travel Partners 

We’ve all heard the saying: “It doesn’t matter where you’re going. It’s who you have beside you.”

Well, when it comes time to plan a trip, that couldn’t be more true.

Trips—and how you plan them—are defined by the people who take them, from family vacations to epic bestie adventures. 

Sometimes, other travelers aren’t a requirement at all. 

planning trip for weekend

Solo travel is on the rise, and more and more women are doing it by themselves , from planning a quick weekend trip somewhere close by to traveling abroad and visiting a foreign country solo. 

And, of course, the answer to how to plan a vacation will differ immensely if you travel with family , plan a trip with friends, or even go it solo.

With a family, you may need a more disciplined plan, with precise itineraries for what you’re going to do and when. Whereas with friends or alone, you may be more inclined to go wherever your feet take you. You also may be less picky about where you stay and not mind traveling off the beaten path when something catches your interest.

These are all things to consider as you make your travel plans.

Now that you have at least a basic idea of the where, why, and who of your how-to-plan-a-vacation master blueprint, we can start talking budget. 

This is usually the worst part of trip planning—at the very least, it’s in the top three.

Don’t worry, it isn’t nearly as bad as it sounds. 

Okay, yes, this is the part where most of us have to start saving money and figuring out how much we need to afford our next trip and what that’ll cost in terms of time and effort. You have to start asking yourself questions like, will you need to work more hours, set aside more money each month, or cut back spending in other areas to afford your trip? 

But most people think of their travel budget as an obstacle to their dream trip. Of course, there’s bound to be some bad blood in the mix if you think of it like that. Instead, think of your travel budget as the little piggy bank or money jar you kept as a kid.

planning trip for weekend

Remember the incomparable joy you felt at adding more money to your stockpile, whether Christmas money, weekly allowance, etc.? 

Think of your travel budget just like that piggy bank and know it’s going to need filling before you can start booking all your plans. Use that to incentivize your decisions and give you that little boost of joy as you put each dollar away, knowing the cause is a worthy one.

And this is where having a more general destination comes in handy, too, as you can plan a trip around your budget. Set on an escape to wine country but looking for a less expensive option than Tuscany? Maybe Napa Valley will do the trick instead. 

When you’re going to go is almost as important as where because the timing can affect just about everything in the trip planning process, from how much money you spend to how you spend your time .

planning trip for weekend

This is one of our key takeaways for how to plan a perfect vacation: travel during your destination’s shoulder season.

The shoulder season is that time between peak season and low season. And this sweet spot is the gift that keeps giving, with cheaper flights, lower hotel rates, smaller crowds, and more.

On the other hand, if you plan your next trip for a holiday or peak travel time, prepare for inflated prices and larger crowds. If it takes place at a specific time—like during a famous festival or peak tourist season—then start your planning process early .

Savvy budget travelers know that having a solid budget in place before you start your planning process is key to getting the best deals and saving money. 

Two reasons.

  • You want to look for specific ways to save money, not go overboard because you found “deals” that you didn’t want to pass up.
  • It’ll be that much more satisfying to see how much money you save—and how much you come in under budget—from all the deals you nab during your travel planning.

Take advantage of countless online resources to help you compare prices and score the cheapest deals. Here are just a few to get you started.

  • Google Flights – for comparing flight prices from multiple airlines
  • Kayak – for finding cheap hotel room bookings 
  • Airbnb – for locating fantastic vacation rentals

While accommodations can take up a sizable portion of your budget, airfare tickets are arguably one of the most expensive parts of travel. To make matters worse, finding and booking flights can often be a nightmare. 

planning trip for weekend

If you want to be sure you never miss out on great flight deals in the future, try signing up for Next Vacay ! You may even find yourself with some new travel inspiration, as NV sends you all the best airfare deals to domestic and international destinations available right out of your home airport. 

You can even book directly through the airline to use travel points for a discounted or even free flight!

With a budget in place, you can search for the deals that’ll keep you at your budget thresholds or below. So, when a great deal from Next Vacay comes in several hundred dollars under budget, you’ll know it’s one you won’t regret snatching up right away!

Get Secret Flight Deals

If you’re not planning this trip because you already have time off approved, schedule time in your calendar to speak with your boss or submit your time off request as soon as you’ve nailed down the dates you want. 

Try not to schedule your request off during your busiest time at work or when you have a lot of unfinished projects awaiting completion. 

planning trip for weekend

The earlier you get your request in, the better positioned you are to have your time off approved. Then you can start cementing your travel dates and itinerary. 

Also, make sure you get the confirmation of your time off in writing. This way, if something happens, you can refer your boss back to the written confirmation and dispel any confusion.

Booking accommodation for your trip shouldn’t be complicated. We touched on this a bit earlier when talking about how to score the best deals on your travel, but plenty of search engine websites exist to help you compare prices on accommodations and get the best rates. We recommend starting with a few at a time:

  • Airbnb  
  • Booking.com  
  • Google Hotels or Google Vacation Rentals
  • Hostelworld

Who you travel with could also affect your accommodation plans, so keep the needs of your travel group in mind.

planning trip for weekend

Are you looking to stay in boutique hotels, secure a whole vacation rental for yourself, or simply book a single bed in a hostel? Do you need to make meals or wash clothes during your trip? 

Approach how you plan a vacation with this mindset of asking questions to hone in on what will work best. This way, you ensure you’ll find something to accommodate your group and fit your travel budget.

There’s more fun to be had in your travel planning. One of our favorite parts of planning a vacation is detailing the trip! That means once you’ve gotten some of the particulars, like budgeting and finding deals, out of the way, you can start researching where you’re going!

planning trip for weekend

This research can be as brief as or in-depth as you want. However, we always vote to do a bit more research than not here, especially if you’re visiting a foreign country. We can think of fewer things worse than finding out about an incredible sightseeing destination or local eatery on the last day of our trip. Trust us, it’s happened before, and it’s not fun. 

Not to mention, doing some recon on your destination is a great way to drum up excitement for your trip. It can also help you iron out an itinerary—if you’re into those.

Here are some helpful travel tips to get you started:

  • Look up famous sights or experiences at your destination (research travel blogs, recommendations from locals, and Google’s handy Things to do feature).
  • Note the average length of any activities you’re interested in.
  • Check out distances between activities and your lodgings (try checking out multiple locations with Google Maps).

Once you’ve got a list of things you’re interested in seeing and doing, you can narrow it down further. Consider this intro lesson 101 for the itinerary portion of our how-to-plan-a-vacation breakdown. 

Start with the things you:

  • Want to do most
  • Fit in your budget
  • Are easiest to get to

Then you can purchase tickets or time slots based on how busy you want your day to be and travel times between different attractions.

planning trip for weekend

If you’re not the itinerary type, don’t feel like you have to be just to check this off your travel planning list. 

Instead, try making plans for must-see attractions and purchase those tickets. Then leave the rest of your schedule free to wander down random streets, linger somewhere with a scenic view, or slip into other attractions that have same-day ticket slots open.

And for those by-the-book travelers, don’t stick to an itinerary at the cost of your enjoyment. 

Just because you’ve planned to visit something one day doesn’t mean it can’t be moved around or struck from your itinerary entirely if needed. Sometimes, you just need a day to sit and do nothing but enjoy the fresh air or have a drink with a newly made friend. 

Make plans, but don’t be afraid to break them.

Okay, now that you’ve gotten a chance to have some fun, it’s time to wrap up the last few details of your trip planning.

First and foremost, that means getting all your documents in order. 

A quick and relatively painless way to make sure nothing gets left at home is to create a checklist for all your essential documents and confirmations: 

  • Passport or visa
  • Drivers’ license/ID card
  • Flight booking confirmation
  • Accommodation booking/order confirmation
  • Tickets to attractions
  • Vaccination record or negative COVID-19 test result
  • Travel insurance

The more digital options you have, the better, as that’s fewer physical documents to carry around. You’re also less likely to forget your phone on a major trip. But a checklist will do the job of making sure you get everything you need together, so you don’t have any last-minute panic attacks at the airport.

Travel insurance isn’t always necessary when you decide to hit the road. Still, it can help relieve some stress knowing that you’re covered if something happens before or during your trip.

Different types of travel insurance will ensure coverage in different situations, so it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the primary forms of coverage available:

  • Trip cancellation, interruption, or delay insurance
  • Travel medical insurance
  • Emergency medical evacuation coverage
  • “Cancel for any reason” coverage
  • Baggage and personal belongings
  • Car rental collision insurance

You may find that some of these are covered already through things like your credit card, renters or homeowner insurance, or even your current health plan, so double-check before adding on the expense of travel insurance.

planning trip for weekend

Keep in mind there are benefits and drawbacks to adding travel insurance to your trip, so give time to consider all of them and determine if travel insurance is right for you.

  • Provides peace of mind
  • Offers compensation for lost items
  • Covers medical expenses
  • Helps save money if something drastic does occur
  • Can be expensive
  • May not cover pre-existing conditions
  • Claims could be rejected due to technicalities

Whether or not you need travel insurance will be up to you and if you’ll feel comfortable traveling without. Take the time to do your research and find out what you may already have covered!

At this point, we’re so close to being ready to fly you might be inclined to zip up your suitcase and call it a day. We’re almost there, we promise. Before you fly out, there’s just one last check you need to do in your travel planning: prepare for the worst.

It’s the last thing we want to imagine, especially on a trip abroad, but taking a few precautions ahead of time will doubtlessly save you lots of anxiety and dread should you run into trouble on the road. 

So, how can you prepare for the worst when you’re not sure what the worst might be? Here are a few things you can do ahead of your travels to make sure you’re not caught unprepared.

  • Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) – helpful for getting in touch with your local embassy and friends and family during emergencies
  • Make copies of your essential documents – keep a physical copy of your ID and passport with you and keep electronic copies of documents like travel insurance, credit cards, etc.
  • Research common scams – familiarize yourself with typical scams at your destination to avoid risky situations and tourist traps
  • Inform your credit card companies you’ll be traveling abroad – ensure your credit card companies know you’ll be out of the country so your accounts aren’t frozen 
  • Bring backup credit cards – try carrying one card on you and leave another at your accommodations in the event one is lost or stolen
  • Secure your valuables – ensure your valuables are locked up tight at your accommodations or kept in hard-to-reach places on your person to reduce the chances of theft

It’s never fun to imagine all the ways your trip might go wrong, but taking the time to make a few plans for what-if scenarios can help you avoid these situations during your vacation. And if they do still happen, you can minimize their impact on your travels and hopefully still enjoy what remains of your trip.

Which helps make all the planning, checklists, and scheduling worth it!

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8 Steps For Planning A Flawless Weekend Trip

Planning a successful weekend trip can be exciting and stressful all at the same time.

I know for us, we have so much we want to see, but so little time to do it. For example, in January we flew to Paris for the weekend and we meticulously planned and snuck in every drop of daylight possible doing and seeing things we loved.

We are also heading out on a weekend road trip to Boise (a 9-hour drive from Seattle!), and we have a long list of things to see and do.

Berty and I have gone on plenty of weekend getaways from Seattle , but the successful ones happen when we use these steps below! We hope this can help you make the most of your precious time off of work!

8 Steps for Planning a Weekend Trip

1. decide why you’re going.

Because you only have 3-4 days to make the most of your plans, make sure you are going for the right reasons. Do you want to discover a new place? Do you want to check something off your bucket list ? When Berty and I plan an adventure, we always go wanting to see a new destination. We go because we love discovering more and more about where we live!  Go with a purpose, and it will be a more meaningful journey!

2. Plan Ahead

To make the most of your precious daylight hours, we’ve got some tools to help you out along the way. If you’re planning a road trip, we recommend the app/web tool called The Dyrt . It’s a campground finding app, with a built-in road trip planner tool, so you can find campgrounds and gas easily along your route! Try their pro membership free for 30-days when using our code MANDAGIES !

There’s another website called AllTrails which helps you plan any hike, and gives you the necessary information. Even if you’re not a planner per se, having options will at least prevent you from wasting precious weekend hours!

READ MORE: Questions To Ask Before Planning A Road Trip

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 3. If Possible, Utilize A Long Weekend

Just a quick look on the calendar and I discovered several weekends that included government holidays and possibilities to extend your holiday. You can even get clever with your vacation days at work, and tack them on to a long weekend to extend your trip even more!

4. Choose Your Crew

Berty and I believe that trips with your family and/or friends is time well spent. We love sharing experiences with the people we love most! Not only do you have traveling companions to help with the load, but you end up sharing memories and deepening your relationship for the long haul. Last January, Berty drove to Jackson, WY with two of his friends and they still talk fondly about it to this day!

READ MORE: 8 Vital Reasons To Travel With Your Friends

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5. Get Up As Early As Possible

To get as much fun as possible out of your weekend trip, we suggest waking up early! Using all the daylight hours will allow you to spend more time exploring new places, or just soaking in one place! Either way, more vacation hours awake = more vacation fun. If you’re not particularly a morning person, our #1 tip is to plan something you’re TOTALLY excited about doing early in the morning. It will make waking up more bearable.

During our latest Utah road trip, Berty and I woke up at 3 am to start hiking to Delicate Arch for sunrise . We wouldn’t have seen these beautiful light rays if we had slept in!

Read More: How To Get Up For Sunrise (For People Who Hate Mornings)

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6. Choose Your Destination, But Leave Room For Changes

While having vacation goals and destinations are important, it’s also good to leave room for unexpected changes in the plan. I know for Berty and I, we don’t always have a 100% successful trip. We’re exhausted, lost, or didn’t research enough ahead of time to make our dreams a reality. True story when we went to Yellowstone in early April . Nearly everything was closed! However, instead of seeing obstacles as a roadblock, consider them detours and opportunities to discover something new along the way!

planning trip for weekend

7. Pack Snacks

If you’re anything like us, we are constantly looking for the next coffee shop, bakery, or gas station to pick up food! To prevent unnecessary stops, buy easy grab-and-go snacks beforehand and keep them within reach for a quick energy pick me up. But if you’re looking to stay on budget, we suggest pre-buying healthy options like baby carrots, oranges, trail mix, and LOTS of water!

Read More: How We Prepare Coffee On The Road

planning trip for weekend

8. Dress For Success

Check the weather forecast for your location before you go. Make sure to pack extra layers for cold nights, and if you live in the Pacific Northwest, always bring a rain jacket. 😉 If you’re hiking, make sure to bring sturdy rain boots and reliable socks. The right gear can make or break a trip!

Here are some weekend trip packing lists we’ve written about for the Pacific Northwest:

  • 5 Essentials To Bring On The Washington Coast
  • 21 Stylish Rain Jackets For The Pacific Northwest
  • The Ultimate Packing List For San Francisco
  • 12 Best Walking Sandals For Travel
  • 7 Travel Backpacks For Ther Adventure Lover

What steps will you take on your next weekend trip? Tell us in the comments below!

planning trip for weekend

For Quick Trips, You’ll Want To Check Out:

20 Energizing Hikes in the Pacific Northwest

The Essential PNW Bucket List

7 Functional Backpacks For The Adventure Lover

30 Essentials For Carry-On Only Travel

11 Places To See On The Olympic Peninsula

8 Clever Ways To Travel On A Tight Budget

How To Pack For A Pacific Northwest Weekend

Follow Our Pacific Northwest Board on Pinterest for some more weekend trip inspiration!

planning trip for weekend

Protect Your Trip »

29 top cheap weekend getaways in the u.s..

Weekend getaways are often cheaper by default – especially in these destinations.

Top Cheap Weekend Getaways

A couple poses for a nature selfie in Asheville, North Carolina.

Jason Tarr | Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

Asheville, North Carolina, is one of the best places for an affordable weekend escape.

Sometimes you just need to escape from your everyday routine – but you may not have weeks (or funds) on end to spend away from home. For those seeking a quick, affordable trip, we've compiled a variety of cheap weekend getaways across the U.S., organized by region so you can find something within driving distance to keep costs low (or further afield if you're up for the journey).

Top Regional Destinations:

Burlington, vermont.

Church Street Marketplace in Burlington, lined with historic buildings, at night.

Getty Images

You don't have to spend a lot of money to enjoy Burlington, Vermont – especially since the best ways to experience it are low-cost or free. Rent bikes and go for a ride on the Burlington Bike Path, which later becomes the Island Line Trail – a stunning pathway over Lake Champlain. You can also stroll Church Street Marketplace, where the Burlington Farmers Market is hosted on Saturdays; sample sweets at Lake Champlain Chocolates; and enjoy a craft beer tasting or two.

Niagara Falls, New York

Niagara Falls including American Falls in foreground and Horseshoe Falls in background, with autumn leaf colors

There's no cost to visit this iconic landmark , and if you want to get up close, you'll find several affordable tours of Niagara Falls – namely boat rides that'll get you up close to the roaring waters. A visit to Niagara Falls, New York, also omits the cost (and hassle) of getting or renewing a passport . Free and low-cost things to do in Niagara Falls include hiking state parks and sampling vinos along the Niagara Wine Trail.

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Cheap weekend getaways

You can enjoy an affordable weekend in Atlantic City – provided you steer clear of (or don't spend too much time at) the casinos. Instead, explore the beach and boardwalk, whose roots date back to 1870. Other budget-friendly things to do in Atlantic City including visiting Absecon Lighthouse (the tallest in New Jersey) and Lucy the Elephant. If you come here for a romantic getaway , treat yourself and your partner to dinner on the waterfront.

The Poconos, Pennsylvania

"Factory Falls, Delaware Water Gap Recreational Area, Poconos, Pennsylvania"

Spend as much or as little as you like in the Pocono Mountains. Located in northeastern Pennsylvania, the region's terrain affords a variety of free and low-cost activities amid beautiful scenery, from hiking and biking to fishing and boating. Lake Wallenpaupack, Hickory Run State Park and Lehigh Gorge State Park offer some of the best camping for those who'd like to keep lodging costs low, though you can also find affordable vacation rentals in the area.

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

A family explores Gettysburg National Military Park.

Courtesy of Destination Gettysburg

Gettysburg National Military Park (which also comprises the Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center) is free to visit, and there's no cost to explore the Civil War battlefields with a national park ranger. Gettysburg ghost tours – a must for anyone who's interested in the area's haunted history – are relatively affordable, too, as are local hotels , which include options under $200 and $100 per night.

Farm Sanctuary: Watkins Glen, New York

Cheap weekend getaways

Courtesy of Farm Sanctuary

Farm Sanctuary in the Finger Lakes region of New York is part animal sanctuary, part country retreat – and an ideal location for a weekend escape from New York City . Travelers eager for a break can book a tiny home or cabin and spend time with more than 500 rescued farm animals in Watkins Glen. Nightly rentals start at $250 per night (plus a $25 membership fee) for up to two people in May through December, and include a special tour each morning of your stay. Sample the region's signature rieslings and chardonnays at some of the top wineries in the Finger Lakes during your visit, or hike to waterfalls at Watkins Glen State Park .

Address: 3150 Aikens Road, Watkins Glen, NY 14891

Black Hills National Forest and Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Cheap weekend getaways

This area of the U.S. is home to Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park and the fascinating caverns of Wind Cave, making it easy to see several iconic attractions in one jaunt. To save on entry fees, consider the America the Beautiful National Park Pass. Priced at $80, it provides access to all national parks and federally protected lands in the U.S., so you'll likely be able to use it for another trip down the road, too.

Read: The Top Things to Do in South Dakota

Holiday World & Splashin' Safari: Santa Claus, Indiana

Cheap weekend getaways

Courtesy of Holiday World & Splashin' Safari

Holiday World & Splashin' Safari ranks among the most affordable amusement parks in the U.S., in part because of its free parking and modest lodging costs. The amusement park also offers complimentary family-friendly perks with admission, including sunscreen and soft drinks.

Address: 452 E. Christmas Blvd., Santa Claus, IN 47579

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Cheap weekend getaways

Courtesy of Wisconsin Dells Visitor & Convention Bureau

Wisconsin Dells is home to myriad water park resorts – many of which combine water park admission and overnight lodging in one rate. Other attractions in Wisconsin Dells include a Ripley's Believe It Or Not museum, a bustling downtown and plenty of gorgeous scenery marked by unique rock formations. You can frequently find hotel and attraction discounts on the Wisconsin Dells tourism bureau's website ; keep in mind for any family trips that the best prices are typically available when kids are in school.

Branson, Missouri

The sun sets over Branson, Missouri.

Courtesy of Explore Branson

Table Rock Lake State Park, where you can swim, canoe, kayak, fish, hike and bike, as well as Branson Landing, which features a spectacular fountain show at night, are among the free attractions in Branson, Missouri . You can also ride a free trolley around town from March to December. The most expensive activity in Branson might be a visit to Silver Dollar City, though you can often find deals on tickets, like discounted evening rates in the fall. For affordable lodging in Branson , try the Thousand Hills Resort Hotel , which often lists rates around $100 per night.

Indianapolis, Indiana

A father and daughter look at art on the Monon Trail in Indianapolis, Indiana, while a woman bikes in the foreground.

Courtesy of Visit Indy

There are a variety of free things to do in Indianapolis , including the Monon Trail, which connects downtown Indy to the Carmel area, with shops and restaurants along the way; the 250-acre White River State Park, perfect for a picnic lunch; and the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, which connects the city's public spaces. On the first Thursday of every month, the Newfields Art Museum offers free admission (and whether or not you go to the museum, the grounds alone are worth a visit). In the summer, Concerts on the Canal brings free entertainment to the area – just bring your own blanket or lawn chair.

No matter your budget, a visit to the Indianapolis Children's Museum is worth the splurge if traveling with kids – it is the largest children's museum in the world.

Cedar Point: Sandusky, Ohio

Cheap weekend getaways

Courtesy of Cedar Point

Not only is Cedar Point one of the best amusement parks in the U.S. – and the self-proclaimed Roller Coaster Capital of the World – but a visit here is also relatively cheap when you factor in the affordability of hotels in Sandusky . The Comfort Inn Sandusky , for example, offers free breakfast with rates starting at less than $100 per night. Keep in mind that, as a seasonal attraction, Cedar Point is typically closed from November to early May.

Address: 1 Cedar Point Drive, Sandusky, OH 44870

Read: The Top Water Parks in Ohio

planning trip for weekend

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Washington, D.C.

A panda snacks at the National Zoo in Washington, D.C.

Courtesy of Washington.org

With 22 free Smithsonian museums including the National Zoo, Washington, D.C. is an obvious choice for a cheap weekend getway. And while many hotels in D.C. are expensive, you can still find affordable accommodations on rental sites like Airbnb and Vrbo.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Cheap weekend getaways

Gulf Shores boasts more than 30 miles of white sand beaches , making it one of the best beaches on the Gulf Coast . You don't have to visit during the summer to experience the area's best weather, though: Spring and fall bring temperatures that are still comfortable for sunbathing, swimming and strolling on the sand.

Budget-friendly things to do in Gulf Shores include bike riding at Gulf State Park; casting a line at Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier; exploring The Wharf, an entertainment and shopping venue; and visiting the Orange Beach History Museum and the Gulf Shores Museum, both of which are free. At local hotels like the Staybridge Suites Gulf Shores , nightly rates for apartment-style accommodations and free breakfast currently hover around $100 a night.

Massanutten Resort: Massanutten, Virginia

An ideal weekend getaway from Washington, D.C. , Massanutten Resort offers four-season fun, from winter sports like skiing and snowboarding to golf, mountain biking and water park action during warmer months. A la carte fees for many activities allow you to spend as much or as little as you'd like, and while there's a nightly resort fee, it covers access to the indoor and outdoor pools, playgrounds, sports courts (including pickleball), hiking trails and more. Plus, the resort fee doesn't seem so bad when you consider that townhomes and guest rooms are available for less than $150 a night.

Address: 1822 Resort Drive, Massanutten, VA 22840

Asheville, North Carolina

People come together to play music, dance, and enjoy at the Asheville Drum Circle at Pritchard Park in downtown Asheville, North Carolina.

Krista Rossow | Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

Situated within the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is known for its mix of history (Biltmore Estate), nature (the Blue Ridge Mountains) and food (from craft breweries to a flourishing dining scene). Travelers can tackle a number of hikes in Asheville for some scenic – and low-cost – fun. You can also stroll along the 1.7-mile Asheville Urban Trail to learn about the city's unique past, go for a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway and explore downtown, where you're bound to come across some of the tiny city's famous street performers. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an easy and relatively affordable day trip from Asheville, too.

Bahia Honda Key, Florida

Cheap weekend getaways

You don't have to visit Key West – or break the bank – to experience the best of the Florida Keys; in fact, the best beaches in the Florida Keys are not even in Key West. At Bahia Honda State Park, for example, you can swim, rent kayaks and snorkeling gear, or even hop on a boat to snorkel in the Looe Key marine sanctuary reef. Entry fees at Bahia Honda State Park are $8 per vehicle with two to eight passengers. Plus, you can camp here for just $36 per night (not including tax and the utility and reservation fees). Renting a cabin costs about $120 per night plus fees from May through October, and slightly more in the cooler months.

Read: The Best Places for Camping in Florida

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Cheap weekend getaways

One of the most affordable beach destinations in the U.S., Myrtle Beach is known for its roster of low-cost or free activities that appeal to travelers of all ages. Explore the mile-long Myrtle Beach Boardwalk (home to the iconic Skywheel) as well as Broadway at the Beach (an entertainment complex), both of which offer live entertainment including music performances and fireworks shows. Vereen Memorial Gardens, just north of the city, is also free to visit. When it comes to Myrtle Beach accommodations , there are affordable options aplenty; the Crown Reef Resort, for example, offers an on-site, year-round water park and rates as low as $92 per night for a family of four.

Polk County, Florida

Bok Tower Gardens in Polk County, Florida

Courtesy of Visit Central Florida

A vacation in Orlando has its time and place, but if you're on the hunt for a cheap weekend getaway, head to Polk County instead. Here, you can explore stunning (and free) parks and nature preserves such as Bok Tower Gardens, a National Historic Landmark, as well as Bonnet Springs Park. The park connects several attractions, including a kids treehouse, a rooftop bar, a butterfly house, The Florida Children's Museum, botanical gardens and more. Legoland Florida Resort and Peppa Pig Theme Park are close by if you decide to splurge on a theme park visit.

New Orleans

Cheap weekend getaways

There are more things to do in New Orleans than you could ever accomplish in a weekend, but you can still enjoy a short and cheap trip to The Big Easy. Ogle the historic houses in the Garden District, stroll along iconic Magazine Street, wander through the French Quarter (where you're bound to see street performers), or stop in a local eatery for a famous po'boy sandwich or beignet. For affordable accommodations in New Orleans , look outside of the French Quarter.

South Padre Island, Texas

A father and daughter fish in South Padre Island, Texas.

Courtesy of South Padre Island CVB

Not only does South Padre Island offer 34 miles of coastline and the cleanest beach water in Texas, but it's also ultra-affordable. Low-cost attractions include Sea Turtle, Inc., which is currently building the world's largest sea turtle hospital, and South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center. There are also plenty of places to enjoy fishing, one of the island's most popular activities. A visit to the Port Isabel Lighthouse State Historic Site – the last Texas lighthouse open to the public – costs just $5 per adult ($3 for kids). Sandcastle Days, the island's beloved festival that is hosted every October, is also free.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

Cheap weekend getaways

One of the most beautiful national parks in California , Joshua Tree National Park is also fairly affordable thanks to campgrounds like Jumbo Rocks, where you can enjoy the seclusion of the deserted wilderness. There are more than 100 primitive campsites available here, with reservations required in the busy season from September to May; a maximum of six people can occupy a campsite for just $20 per night (on top of fees to enter the park).

San Luis Obispo, California

A woman walks on a nature trail overlooking San Luis Obispo, California.

Courtesy of Visit SLO CAL

Combining small-town charm with beautiful weather, San Luis Obispo is an ideal weekend getaway from Los Angeles (about 190 miles from the city). With the plethora of outdoor activities here, visitors can enjoy budget-friendly fun like hiking the area's trails, surfing in the ocean, zip lining or horseback riding. For local flavor, visit the Thursday evening farmers market or dine alfresco at one of many downtown patios. The town's free Concerts in the Plaza series features performances by the area's top artists. Beaches await those seeking relaxation in SLO, while wine lovers can explore the region's Edna Valley wineries.

Cheap weekend getaways

A glitzy getaway in Las Vegas can be yours – and it may be less expensive than you initially imagined. Hotels in Vegas can cost as little as $50 per night on weekdays (plus resort fees), and local attractions like Bellagio Fountains, the Fremont Street Experience, the Las Vegas Sign and Seven Magic Mountains (just outside the city) are all free to visit. This might just mean you'll have some room in your budget for a casino visit, tickets to one of the city's spectacular shows , and/or a tour of the Grand Canyon .

Sedona, Arizona

A couple mountain bikes on red rocks in Sedona, Arizona.

Courtesy of Sedona Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau

It won't cost you a penny to visit most attractions in Sedona , including Cathedral Rock, Devil's Bridge and Fay Canyon. And while Sedona's spa and wellness resorts are undoubtedly pricey, you can find lodging for less in off-peak months (summer and winter), as well as a variety of vacation rentals year-round.

Read: The Top Things to Do in Arizona

Gros Ventre Wilderness, Wyoming

Cheap weekend getaways

The Gros Ventre Wilderness, which is part of the greater Yellowstone ecosystem, is another natural wonder worth visiting. Plan a weekend here to discover rolling rivers, abundant wildlife, and amazing geological features such as rock formations and natural slides. As for accommodations, travelers can rent the cozy Hoback Guard Station cabin for $80 per night for a party of up to six guests from May to October.

Olympic National Park, Washington

Cheap weekend getaways

Olympic National Park is well worth a weekend visit, whether you want to hike, stargaze or explore its more than 70 miles of untouched Pacific Coast shoreline – which include dog-friendly beaches , if your furry friend wants to come along. While here, visit the famous Hoh Rain Forest, Lake Crescent and Rialto Beach. You can even camp within the park for as little as $40 per night for up to 10 people sharing a campsite. Note that you'll have to pay a fee to enter the park.

Read: The Best Weekend Getaways from Seattle

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Hot air balloons rise in the air at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

Courtesy of Visit Albuquerque

Albuquerque is quirky and fun, with an Old Town that features cobblestone streets and adobe-style buildings and is free to explore. Plan a visit during spring or fall for the best weather, then take advantage of local, low-cost festivals: May brings the New Mexico Wine Festival ($25 or less per ticket) to town, or come autumn, you can stop by the famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (around $15 per person) to witness one of the best hot air balloon festivals in the U.S. Other things to do in Albuquerque include visiting the Petroglyph National Monument, which is free of charge. Opt for a vacation rental rather than a hotel to save some coin.

San Antonio, Texas

Cheap weekend getaways

San Antonio is an affordable Texas destination brimming with cultural flair, historical significance and free activities. There's no cost to visit iconic attractions like the Alamo or the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, and you won't pay anything to stroll the famous River Walk (though dining at least once here is a must). Another popular activity, narrated river cruises are also cheap, with tickets for less than $15 per person via local operator GO RIO Cruises.

You might also be interested in:

  • The Best Cheap Family Vacations
  • The Best Cheap All-Inclusive Resorts
  • The Best Cheap Spring Break Destinations
  • The Best Presidents Day Weekend Getaways
  • The Cheapest Travel Insurance Companies

Cheap Tropical Vacations

Aerial of Entalula Island Beach Lagoon with typical Filipino Balangay boats.

Tags: Travel , Budget Travel , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

  • # 1 South Island, New Zealand
  • # 4 Bora Bora

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How to Plan a Trip: Your Step-by-Step Travel Planning Guide

Home » Blog » Travel Tips » How to Plan a Trip: Your Step-by-Step Travel Planning Guide

Planning a trip overseas, whether long or short, can seem overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be! In this article, we’ll show you how to take the stress out of travel planning, by laying out a simple step-by-step guide on how to plan a trip that’ll ensure you don’t forget anything.

How to Plan a Trip | Angkor Temples Cambodia

Have you ever been overwhelmed by the idea of planning a trip because it seems too, well…  overwhelming ?! 

There’s a lot to think about when planning travel: from getting a visa, to figuring out transportation, to booking accommodation and getting local currency, it can be downright stressful.

And it’s a bit contradictory, right? Stressing out over planning what is supposed to be a relaxing vacation. We’ve definitely been there. Many times , in fact. 

But we’ve learned our share of lessons along the way and now we’re here to help. 

In this article, we’ll show you how to plan a trip without the stress by laying out a simple step-by-step guide that’ll ensure you don’t forget anything.

Here’s exactly what you need to do to take a travel daydream and turn it into reality.

So whether you’re planning a 2-week getaway or a journey with no end date in sight, these steps will take you from the brainstorming phase to stepping foot in your destination. We think you might actually   have fun  planning your next trip.  That’s a dare .

Alright, take a deep breath, because we’re digging right in!

How to Plan a Trip

  • Step 1: Figure out your travel budget
  • Step 2: Decide on your travel style/partner(s)
  • Step 3: Choose a destination
  • Step 4: Book flights
  • Step 5: Book accommodation
  • Step 6: Research things to do
  • Step 7: Get travel insurance
  • Step 8: Minimize travel risks
  • Step 9: Pack your bags
  • Step 10: Last-minute prep

Step 1. Figure out your travel budget

How to Plan a Trip | Budapest Hungary

Before you can even begin to plan a trip, you need to take a good look at your finances and figure out how much money you have to spend on your adventure. This will dictate a lot of the future steps including where you can travel to and for how long. 

This step might sound scary, but we’ve broken it down for you so you can create your very own customized travel budget. We’re even sharing  exactly how we afford to travel and stay on budget .

If you have the time before you go, follow these  simple steps to save money for your travels .

Step 2. Decide on your travel style / partner(s)

How to Plan a Trip | Gili Islands Bali Indonesia

Is this a short vacation, a 3-week trip overseas or long term travel that you are planning for? 

…And who’s coming with you?

Take a moment to answer this question… Are you going to be traveling solo or with a partner? A group of friends, or with your family and children in tow?

The answer to this question can help shape your trip quite a bit. For instance, a solo trip to Tahiti may not be the best choice, as this popular honeymoon destination is going to be swarming with couples on romantic getaways. Likewise, party-centered Ibiza might not be the best place for a wholesome family vacay.

  • Traveling Solo? Traveling solo is an incredibly freeing experience, and there are  many great cities around the world for solo travelers .
  • Want a romantic getaway? Romance isn’t just limited to beaches and resorts. Check out our roundup of some of the  top romantic destinations for every type of traveling couple , some of which might be a little unexpected.
  • Looking for a perfect family vacation spot? There are destinations all over the world that are  amazing spots to bring your kids !

If you are planning on traveling with a partner, don’t book your flights without  asking them these questions first…

Step 3. Choose a destination

How to Plan a Trip | Two Wandering Soles

This step may seem obvious for some, maybe you already know exactly where it is you want to travel and that’s why you’re planning this trip in the first place. For those of you that have a destination nailed down, there are still a few things we’d suggest you consider, you can skip right down to the research step.

For those of you that have the itch to travel, maybe even the vacation time set up, but still have no idea how to narrow down just one place, we suggest looking at a map. No really! Hear us out…

Literally look at a map, and start circling all the cities, towns or attractions you want to visit. Look on  Instagram  for inspiration. Don’t limit yourself. What do you want to do? What do you want to see and experience? When planning a route, we typically look at other trusted bloggers’ recommendations.

And no need for paper maps anymore, go digital! Here’s a great tutorial on  how to use Google My Maps . It’s game-changing. 

We figure out how many nights we can stay in each city and how we’re going to get from city to city. We have many itineraries on our  Itineraries page  where you can see examples of our travel routes and recommendations. We also suggest taking a look at  Lonely Planet travel guides . 

Once you think you’ve nailed down a place, or places…

Do your research

How to Plan a Trip | Milford Sound, New Zealand

Don’t forget to do a little digging and make sure that the time of year you plan to travel is optimal. We have failed to do our research a few times and it ended up really affecting our trip.

Asking yourself the following questions can really save you the troubles or headaches down the road:

What will the weather be like?

  • Will it be the wet season? Hurricane season? Super-duper-unbearably hot?

Example:  We traveled in India during the hottest months of the year and literally could not do much outside some of the days because it was 110 °F (43.3 °C). After that, we vowed never to make the mistake of traveling without really understanding the weather first.   

Is it peak tourism season? Low season?

  • Will it be hard to get a hotel because it’s peak season? Will the lines and crowds at tourist attractions be ridiculous? 
  • Likewise, if you are traveling during low season, should you expect a lot of the businesses to be shut down? Will closures hinder your chance to see and experience everything you were hoping to?

Example:  We visited Croatia in July – its busiest month of the year – and found ourselves super frustrated with the crowds and jacked up prices. We ended up shortening our time there because we were not enjoying it as much as we expected.

Croatia in July was PACKED with tourists. If we had to do it over again, we would not have visited in high tourist season. A little research could have told us that July is probably not the best time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds!

Hold up! Before you start a Googling storm, we’ve got some good news: there are some resources out there that make this process for researching so much faster!

  • If you know WHERE you want to go,  Travelendar  (combination of travel + calendar) will tell you what time of year is best to visit.
  • If you know WHEN you want to travel, check out this list that breaks down  which destinations are best to visit each month of the year .
  • We’ve also done the research for you, nailing down the pros and cons of visiting during different times of the year for a number of popular destinations such as  Japan ,  Bali ,  New Zealand  and  Iceland .

But don’t worry if you don’t know where OR when you want to travel… check out this  calendar of events around the world  for inspiration!

How cool is that?!

How to Plan a Trip | Sziget festival Budapest

These events span all destinations and interests: from European music festivals (like Sziget Festival in Budapest, pictured above!) to cultural celebrations to naturally occurring events like the migration patterns of wildlife in Africa. 

When you find an event that interests you, click on it to learn more.

Pace yourself

Thinking about your pace will determine how many of the places you circled above you’ll realistically be able to see.

Do you want to pack in as much as possible, or do you want to choose a couple places and really get to explore them? Do you want to travel slow and take in the culture to really understand how locals live?

Or do you want to tick places off your list and move from city to city, seeing as much as you can? Maybe a happy mixture of slow and fast? This all depends on the amount of time you have and your budget.

Find out visa requirements

How to Plan a Trip | Applying for visas

Investigate if you need to obtain a visa for the country or countries you’re thinking of traveling to. You may not need one for the first country you arrive in, but will you need one for the other countries in your itinerary? Can you get a visa online, visa on arrival, or do you need to get it in your home country?

For instance, if you’re traveling to Vietnam, Americans need to apply for a visa ahead of time (and  here’s the best and cheapest way to get one ).

If you don’t know if you need a visa, check out your home country’s visa websites:

  • USA citizens
  • UK citizens
  • Canadian citizens
  • Australian citizens
  • Singaporean citizens

Step 4. Book flights

You know where you want to go? Check. Have your visa? Check. 

Now here comes our favorite part: It’s time to book a flight!

First, you’ll need to answer these questions: What airport will you fly into? Are you going to make a round trip and fly out of the same airport? Or are you departing out of a new place? 

Tips for getting the best deals on flights:

  • Know when to buy.  Depending on where you are flying to and from, there are different recommendations for how far in advance you should buy your flight.

This graphic from CheapAir illustrates how far in advance you should purchase flights for the best deals. This map is based off of flight originating from the U.S. Read more onBusiness Insider here .

  • Play around with breaking the flight up.  For example, instead of searching for a flight from Minneapolis to Japan, we’ll search Seattle to Japan. Then we find a flight from Minneapolis to Seattle. This allows you to have a layover in a cool city, and can be a lot cheaper. 
  • Another good gateway into Asia is flying through China. You can usually find one way tickets to China from major US cities for around $350! 
  • Sign up for price alerts.  Many search engines allow you to sign up for alerts between destinations. You’ll get email notifications when the fare goes down, so you can jump on it!
  • There are tons of credit cards that give you miles for purchases.  Find the  best travel credit card for you here . If you’re inclined to get an airline credit card, think about the major airlines at your home airport. You’ll most likely be booking flights with that airline so might as well rack up the points.
Don’t forget to sign up for the frequent flyer miles program  with flight you choose! Many airlines are part of a broad network and the miles are sometimes transferable.

How to Plan a Trip | Find Airline Deals

Understanding WHY a flight is cheap is important. Make sure you think about the arrival time at your destination. The cheapest flight might get in at 2 in the morning and you’ll have to wait for hours for your guesthouse to open, or hotel check in time. 

On the flipside, if you depart super early in the morning, you may have a difficult time hailing down a taxi that early (and have to pay a premium for the ride). Sometimes the absolute cheapest fare will actually cost you more in the end.

If your trip doesn’t involve taking a flight,  check out these  tips for planning an epic USA road trip . 

When searching for a flight we like to use  Skyscanner  first because it allows you to search across the entire month to find the cheapest flight.

Want more tips for finding the best deal on airfare?  You’re in luck, because we have an entire article dedicated to  how to find cheap flights !

Are you a nervous flyer? Don’t let the anxiety of flying prevent you from traveling. Check out these  tips for fearful flyers  that will help put you at ease.

Step 5. Book accommodation

Airbnb+Coupon+Code+Guide

Depending on how long your vacation is you may choose to book all your accommodation ahead of time or none at all.

For instance, if you only have two weeks, it might be best to arrange your hotels or hostels online so you don’t waste precious time trying to figure out accommodation when you’d rather be exploring. Plus, you don’t want to run the risk of everything being booked up! 

If you’re traveling long term, however, you may just book a few days at a time. Or you may prefer to wing it and walk into hotels once you arrive in a town.

We put a lot of consideration into where to book our accommodation when planning a trip. 

First, we want to consider location. We may start to research things to do in a destination before this step so we have a better idea of where we will want to visit and what the most central location will be for us. 

If a city is known for its nightlife, we might consider staying in a quieter neighborhood. If accommodation costs skyrocket the closer to the city center you get, we may consider saving money to stay somewhere further out. 

Transportation

How to Plan a Trip | Rent a Motorbike in Bali

We also consider transportation in a new city. If the city is very walkable, we’ll want to stay right in the center. If Ubers or public transportation is easily accessible, we may consider saving money by staying further outside the center. We recommend doing plenty of research on transportation options and costs before nailing down your accommodation. 

Length of stay

If we are planning to stay in one location for a longer period of time (a couple weeks or more), we like to have a place that feels a bit more like “home” than a hotel. We love to cook, so a place with a kitchen allows us to enjoy our passion and save money on dining out at the same time! We usually use  Airbnb  or  Booking  to find apartment-style rentals in new cities. 

If we have a short layover in a city, or are staying just a few nights, we might splurge on a hotel, or even try to save money by booking a hostel.

Everything you need to know about Airbnb :  You’ll find loads of info on how to book Airbnbs, red flags to watch out for when booking, and our favorite Airbnbs.

Booking resources

Depending on where in the world we’re traveling, we switch up our booking sites. Here are our favorites:

  • Asia:  Booking  or  Agoda  (we find Airbnb is only available in certain cities/countries and not in others in Asia)
  • Europe:   Booking , Airbnb or  Hostelworld
  • USA:   Airbnb  (we rarely stay in hotels in the US and Hostels aren’t nearly as prevalent in the US as elsewhere in the world)
  • South & Central America:   Hostelworld ,  Airbnb or  Booking

Step 6. Research things to do

How to Plan a Trip | Sólheimasandur plane crash in Iceland

When talking about how to plan a trip, this is where the fun really starts … We LOVE doing research to find out what kinds of adventures we can have in a new destination. 

Here are a few of our favorite resources for researching travel destinations:

Pinterest :  Probably the first place we look when we get curious about a new place. We use Pinterest as a search engine (just like we would use Google!) and we have found in our experience that there is TONS more helpful content on travel there than if we were to try and sift through the first page of Google. We love that you can save articles in organized boards as well to return to later (you may have noticed the Pins we create at the bottom of all of our own articles). 

Bloggers:  We are constantly looking to other bloggers we trust for advice on new destinations. We have some we follow closely so we always know where to check if they have information on a place. We like to read a few different suggested itineraries for new cities to figure out what the can’t-miss attractions are and get ideas on how to plan our own itinerary. We leave comments on posts and reach out via social media if we are still left with questions after reading a blog post about a new place. 

Airbnb Experiences :  Sometimes just checking out what’s offered on Airbnb Experiences is a great way to get ideas of cool things to see and do in a new place. You might even find an experience or 2 you want to sign up for!

Trip Advisor:  We like to check reviews for things on trip advisor to see what other travelers have to say about certain experiences or attractions. There can be some seriously good advice on there! 

Step 7. Get travel insurance

How to Plan a Trip | Bungee jumping in Banos, Ecuador

Even though you might be safer abroad than in your home country, accidents happen everywhere and you should always be covered. We never leave home without travel insurance and neither should you.

One of the most popular travel insurance companies is  World Nomads . They cover anyone worldwide and are extremely easy to use. We were covered by them when we trekked to Everest Base Camp  and were very happy with our experience. Fill out the info below to get an instant quote:

For more information on how to pick a policy and what we look for in travel insurance,  check out our detailed travel insurance comparison article .

Be sure to read our  essential travel safety tips  for more detailed advice about how to stay safe and protect your belongings while traveling.

Step 8. Minimize travel risks

How to Plan a Trip | Iceland romantic getaway

When breaking down the steps for how to plan a trip, this is an important one. There are plenty of steps you can take before you even set foot in a country to minimize your risk of something going wrong. 

Register on your country’s Smart Traveler program

For Americans, you should sign up for the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  (STEP). Through STEP you’ll get emergency updates that would affect your travels, such as bad weather or civil unrest or protests.

It will also give you easy access to your embassy in the country you’re visiting. Lastly, if anything bad were to happen to you on your travels, you’d be easier to track down. Check your country’s travel department for similar programs. 

Get all necessary Immunizations ahead of time

Before setting foot in a new country, you’ll want to be sure to protect yourself from foreign disease. Use the  CDC website  to research vaccinations and medications you might need in the destination(s) you are planning to visit. We’d also advise visiting your doctor before a longer trip to make sure all of your health concerns are taken care of. 

Scan your documents and email yourself a copy

Scan a copy of your passport and any credit cards you’re bringing, and email it to yourself. Do the same for your travel insurance documents and receipts of the valuables you’re carrying. If anything happens to these while you’re traveling, you’ll have an electronic version.

Know common scams

How to Plan a Trip | Top of the Burj Khalifa in Dubai

While you’re in research mode, do a quick search of common scams in your destination. Being aware of popular scams is often all you need to avoid falling victim. 

We have run into plenty of known scams on our travels, especially in bigger cities like  Bangkok , and have even fallen victim to some ourselves. Unfortunately, scams are a risk you run in traveling, and sometimes unavoidable, but the more informed you are, the better prepared you will be to avoid getting caught in a tourist trap. 

Bring backup credit cards

If you are traveling in a group or as a couple, you have a bit of a support system (assuming you each bring at least one credit card). 

This tip is particularly geared towards solo travelers. 

You will always want to bring a backup credit card (and perhaps a backup debit or ATM card as well) in case of emergencies. We’ve been in situations abroad where our cards have been stolen (sometimes it’s not always obvious as it happens with a swipe and we still have the card in our possession) and if you don’t have a backup, you will have a very hard time accessing your money. 

For this reason, we like to keep our back ups in a separate location in our luggage (one in our hand luggage, one in our suitcase) and then leave one behind at our accommodation in case we were to be mugged. It may sound a bit extreme, but it’s always good to be prepared!

Secure your belongings

It should go without saying that you’ll want to keep your belongings, and especially your valuables in secure places while traveling (you know, use a purse with a zipper for less-easy access and don’t hang it on the back of your chair on a crowded street corner cafe). There are some items you can purchase ahead of time to help keep your belongings safe while traveling. 

  • Basic travel locks
  • Bluetooth tracking luggage locks
  • Hidden pocket scarf
  • A camera bag disguised as a purse

Step 9. Pack your bags

How to Plan a Trip | Walking tour in Istanbul, Turkey

It’s starting to feel real now isn’t it?! Your trip is coming up fast and it’s time to get packing!

Packing for a trip can be quite the puzzle. You want to be prepared and make sure you don’t forget anything, but at the same time, don’t want to feel weighed down by too much stuff.

If you’re a self-proclaimed over-packer, or someone who always ends up using only half the things in their suitcase on every trip… I’m right there with ya! We recommend planning out your packing ahead of time so you are not rushing at the last minute to get everything you need stuffed into your oversized suitcase. 

One tip is to lay everything you think you will need for a trip out on a flat surface (your bedspread works great for this) and then take away half — yes half! — of it. That is how much stuff you should realistically be trying to pack. 

Another rule of thumb we like to try and stick to is packing in a carry-on for any trip shorter than one month .

This may seem incredibly daunting to some, but trust us when we say, you’ll be much happier trying to navigate the cobblestone streets of Europe or lifting your luggage onto a train if it’s smaller than a 50 pound bag!

How to Plan a Trip | Packing Solutions

Below are some essentials you’ll want to make sure you pack for any trip:

  • Passport/Identification
  • Wallet/credit cards (and backups!)
  • Chargers for  all  of your electronics
  • Kindle  or e-reader
  • Travel pillow
  • Insulated water bottle

Think about your electronics

This is a big one not to forget! If you are traveling abroad, you’ll want to look into the outlet situation you can expect in your destination and how it compares to that of your home country. 

A quick Google search will show you what type of outlets you’ll find in the country you’re visiting. Here’s a great  website for electrical outlets . Look at the voltage too, and check the compatibility with any electronics you’re planning to bring along. A great purchase is the  travel converter with adapters . 

Packing resources

Use these packing resources for tips and ideas to help you pack for your next trip:

  • How to Pack for 3 months in a Backpack
  • Ultimate Packing Guide for Long Term Travel
  • Eco Friendly Travel Gear Packing List

Step 10. Last-minute prep

How to Plan a Trip | Seljalandsfoss Waterfall in Iceland

You’ve made it to the final step! Your trip is just around the corner and all that’s left is doing a little research and making some last-minute arrangements.

Data/Internet access

Research the best way to gain access to data or Internet while you’re in your destination. If you’re traveling within your home country, this shouldn’t be a problem.

However, if you are traveling abroad, you might want to consider purchasing a prepaid local SIM card when you arrive. This will be the cheapest way to gain access to data abroad. 

Use our  ultimate guide to getting an international SIM card , including helpful tips for using your phone abroad.

Download some helpful apps

  • Google Translate:  Type in something you want to say, and it’ll translate the phrase into any language you select. You can even take a picture of a menu written in an entirely different language (like Korean, for example), and it will translate what is written. It is amazing!
  • Google Maps:  Before going to a new location, we typically download the offline map for our destination in our Google Maps app. If you have your GPS turned on, the app will show your current location with a blue dot even when you don’t have data or WiFi turned on. This is super helpful if you’re on a long bus ride and want to know exactly where you are, or when you’re lost wandering around in a big city. 
  • GlobalConvert:  This app makes it easy to convert anything from currency to distance to temperature. (Super handy for Americans unfamiliar with the metric system.) And the best part is, it works offline!
  • Time Buddy:  If you’re traveling on the other side of the world, this app makes it super easy to figure out time difference between where you are and your home country.
  • Trail Wallet:  Yeah, yeah, I know, we’ve talked about this one a lot. But it has seriously changed how we travel. This app converts seamlessly through currencies and shows you exactly where you are in regard to your budget. Download this app and you’ll be able to travel longer. Seriously. 

Have a plan for currency

Korean Won

On long-term trips, we typically withdraw money from a local ATM as soon as we enter a new country. We NEVER use currency exchanges as these tend to take a big percentage (like 30%). Plus ATMs are much more efficient.

Our Charles Schwab card ( more info here ) reimburses all ATM fees, so we only take out small amounts at a time.

Tip: Just remember to decline the currency conversion rate offered by the ATM. When you do this you are referring to the conversion rate set by your bank instead. And in our experience, the banks always give a more fair conversion rate and than the pre-set ATM conversion rates.

Notify your bank of your travel plans

This is a step that can sometimes be overlooked, but can put a serious damper on your travel plans when you enter a new country only to find your bank has automatically shut off your debit card because it thinks you are attempting a fraudulent withdrawal. 

How to plan a trip Laos

Learn the language (at least a few phrases)

We’re not insinuating that you must be able to have a conversation in the local language before visiting a foreign country. But learning a few key words or phrases shows locals that you are trying, and people usually respect this.

You’d be surprised how far learning “hello” and “thank you” can get you. Some other helpful words to learn no matter where you are traveling are: “bathroom”, “delicious” and “beautiful”.

And don’t forget about numbers. Write down the numbers 1 through 10 in a small notebook and translate them. Knowing a few numbers makes it a lot easier to order at restaurants. 

If you have any allergies or medical conditions, it’s a good idea to write it out and translate it to the language of your destination country. For instance, “I am a vegetarian,” or “I am diabetic”. Print it out in the local language (and the phonetic spelling) and carry it in your wallet. It will definitely come in handy. 

Refine your manners

A little research can go a long way. Certain gestures you might use everyday, like a thumbs up or okay sign, are offensive in some cultures. Avoid awkward situations by researching some basic manners in the country you’re visiting. 

Where to first?

How to Plan a Trip | Balloons over Cappadocia, Turkey

You’re ready to take the leap! However, the first few hours in a new country can be a little overwhelming (and the most likely time to get scammed). That’s why you should have a plan of how to get from the airport to your hotel (or wherever you’re headed first).

We typically write down the address (in the local language and in English) of our first hostel/hotel in a small book or in the notes app on our phone so we can show taxi/bus drivers, that way we don’t fumble over mispronouncing street names.

It’s also helpful to save the locations of your accommodation, local embassy, hospital and attractions you want to visit in your maps (that you’ve downloaded offline of course!) before leaving.

Book transportation ahead of time or get specific instructions on how to find public transport. Read our  travel tips , other blogs, or guide books on what is the best means of transportation in the specific country you’re visiting. If you have a plan and know what you’re doing, you’ll start off your vacation on the right foot.

Confirm reservations

It’s easiest to call or write to confirm reservations for things like accommodation and transportation before you find yourself in a foreign country with a canceled Airbnb reservation and nowhere to go. Confirm all your important reservations and keep copies of your confirmation receipts in your email.  

And there you have it, 10 simple steps for how to plan a trip to anywhere in the world. 

Following these steps will take some of the stress out of trip planning, but it is important to remember that even the best laid plans often go awry. This is particularly true with travel as there are just too many factors outside of your control.

And that’s okay.  In fact, that is half the fun of it! It’s what makes travel such an incredible  learning experience  and why we keep going back for more.

Need help planning the perfect trip?

Be sure to check out our  Travel Planning page  for resources on everything you need to know about how to plan a trip, from packing to budgeting and more! Or you can read some of our favorite articles about planning your next trip below. 

  • How We Afford to Travel & You Can Too!
  • How to Find Cheap Flights: 17 Expert Tips
  • How We Pick the Best Travel Insurance
  • Cheap Travel Hacks to Save You Money

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How to Plan a Trip | Two Wandering Soles

We want to hear from you!

If you still have more questions about how to plan a trip—both international or otherwise—leave your comment below and we’ll do our best to find you the answers you’re looking for!

Comments (14) on “ How to Plan a Trip: Your Step-by-Step Travel Planning Guide ”

It’s great that you talked about how we’d plan a trip and choose the things we want to do. We’re excited about traveling for our next vacation, and we’d like to start booking hotels and tours, so we’ll follow your tips to help us out. Thanks for the insight on finding all kinds of adventures for our vacation trip.

Bautiful blog and very informative ! Thanks for sharing

Hey guys! Honey is here. Two days back I returned from my vacation and enjoyed myself a lot there. I didn’t face any booking issues regarding stay and tickets reservation. This time I have got 10,000 off on my bookings through the usage of BOB cards and I gained that offer info from Saveplus. You guys must fly! Go on.

Thanks for reminding me to check out my finances first before planning a trip. I have allotted a part of my monthly budget last year so I could travel overseas but it might not be too safe because of the pandemic. I think it would be better to visit something local and just book a Kentucky bourbon tour.

This is a wonderfully structured article! Loved reading it!

Thank you very much for your very pragmatic info. May I have some names of reliable bloggers for my research please? Nic

Your blog is very informative. You have written every thing in deep.

Thank you for great information !

I like that you shared your thoughts with us. I am living in my camper van and I like to read more thoughtful articles like this one. Thanks for the amazing and beautiful post….

Thanks so much for the kind words!

What a wonderful post on how to plan a trip! You have some good points and tips! I also wrote a post on how I planned for my East Coast Trip, check it out on my blog http://innapishtoy.com/2018/05/19/planning-packing-trip/

Thanks for sharing Inna.

Good one content katie. I am impressed. It is very useful for my winter holidays.

So happy to hear it was helpful!

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Explore > Destinations > How to plan a long-weekend trip in 2022

How to plan a long-weekend trip in 2022

Ready for a bucket list-worthy escape that takes three days or less? We created a long-weekend calendar for 2022 so you can look ahead and plan with ease.

In 2021, more than a quarter of those polled in Expedia’s Vacation Deprivation study said they haven’t taken a vacation in over a year. That means millions of people are leaving paid vacation days on the table. It’s time to reclaim them. We’ve created an easy-to-follow long-weekend calendar to help you make the most of your earned days and get on your way to making lasting happy memories once again.

US Calendar

Looking for more advice? We also created a simple Travel Smart Checklist to make sure all your essentials are covered before you head out the door.

To get even more out of your long weekends, sign up to become an Expedia Rewards member. You’ll gain access to perks like Member Pricing, which could add up to 10 percent or more off bookings. And don’t forget to download the Expedia app for exclusive offers and promotions, and to keep all your long-weekend itinerary details handy no matter where you decide to go next.

With COVID-19, it’s important to stay safe and practice social distancing. We hope you find this content entertaining, inspiring, or useful for a future trip. Always research official websites for up-to-date information on closures and new health and safety policies as businesses and destinations reopen.

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50 Best Family Vacation Ideas on a Budget for 2024

From all-inclusives in the Caribbean to quick getaways in the U.S., there's something for every traveler in your group.

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It's not lost on us that travel, like everything else, is getting more expensive, so we focused many of our picks on properties that provide great value. When we feature splurgy spots, rest assured they're worth every penny.

Whether you're looking to chill out at an all-inclusive resort , get active in the great outdoors , check out new attractions at a theme park, hit the beach or cozy up at ski resort , there's a destination or experience here to match every vacation vibe and party size. After all, bringing the grandparents comes with so many benefits, not the least of which is babysitting so you can score some much-needed time for an interruption-free dinner, spa treatment or romantic walk on the beach.

Use this guide to help narrow down your options, and then check out the Good Housekeeping Institute 's tried-and-tested list of essential travel gear and accessories to get ready for your trip. You can also consult our guides on how to choose a family-vacation hotel as well as how to keep all ages entertained . Since the early bird gets the best deal, shore up your spring break and summer vacation plans now.

Mexico and the Caribbean

a slide with a shell that says"mexico and the caribbean"

Spend your days rolling in the waves, relaxing by the pool or enjoying quiet time (thanks to some superior kids' clubs) at these island resorts.

Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya, Mexico

nickelodeon hotels resorts riviera maya, mexico

With massive waterparks, daily slimings and Nickelodeon characters galore, the kids have it made at the all-inclusive Nickelodeon Hotels & Resort Riviera Maya, a Good Housekeeping 2024 Family Travel Award Winner. But grown-ups aren’t left out of the fun. Tequila tastings, spa treatments and romantic dinners can be on your agenda thanks to the supervised club for kids ages 4 to 12. And while you probably wouldn’t be booking a SpongeBob-themed room if you didn’t have the kids in tow, the decor is as mod and classy as it can be. All the accommodations are suites that sleep up to five and have two bathrooms. Suites have direct access to a pool from the balcony. (Yes, even on the top floor!)

RELATED: Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana Is the Best Place to Travel With a Baby and a Sibling

Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas

view of atlantis hotel in the bahamas, good housekeeping's pick for best family vacation destinations

Winner of a 2024 Family Travel Award, Atlantis is a top choice for families of all ages looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure. Its adrenaline-pumping waterpark features high-speed slides, including a one-of-a-kind tube slide down a Mayan pyramid. Animal encounters, like getting up close to a dolphin, are thrilling in a different way. But on the other side of the massive resort, the beaches are super chill. The gentle water is just perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. Supervised clubs for kids, tweens and teens truly wow, so adults can enjoy the casino and a meal at one of the resort's fine-dining restaurants.

EXPLORE NOW

Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda, Dominican Republic

the sunset at club med michès playa esmeralda, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

Movies under the stars, trapeze lessons, windsurfing — with cool activities like these, kids will never want to leave this newish resort in the lush, away-from-it-all part of the island. Supervised clubs for babies through teens keep the good times rolling while you’re at the adults-only Zen pool or doing treetop yoga. (Yes, that’s a thing.) Solar panels, recycling, plastic-free water bottles and other sustainable initiatives are part of the eco-minded resort culture.

Beaches Negril Resort & Spa, Negril, Jamaica

a sparsely attended white sand beach at beaches negril, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

While this all-inclusive resort and 2024 Family Travel Award-winner caters to all ages, toddlers and preschoolers will be star-struck. Sesame Street characters entertain them with story times, dance parties and even puppet-making! That’s on top of the mini water slides, splash areas and a playground that makes little ones squeal with glee and wears them out, so they’ll hit the sack early.

Private childcare and supervised kids’ clubs (for babies through teens, including those with special needs) are an option when you want a spa treatment, a quiet dinner or just to read a book on the resort's idyllic 7-Mile Beach. All the rooms and suites got a glow-up in 2020, plus there are new villas with butler service (sign us up!)

RELATED: 20 Best Caribbean Resorts for Families to Visit

Fairmont Mayakoba, Playa del Carmen, Mexico

an aerial view of the beach at fairmont mayakoba, a good housekeeping pick for best family resort

When it comes to baby and kid gear, this luxury resort has you covered. Need a bottle warmer? They got it. How about a step stool for a toddler to reach the sink? Yours for the asking. With these worries aside, you can concentrate on the beauty of the surroundings (the resort is surrounded by a lush mangrove forest) and incredible bucket-list activities, like kids’ carnivals and night kayaking. All the rooms have received a glow-up and there's a sleek new beach club to boot.

Rock House Resort, Turks & Caicos

the infinity pool at the rock house resort, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

Your family may never leave the water at this Mediterranean-inspired oasis , which opened in May 2022. In addition to a full kitchen and roomy living room, many of the villa-style accommodations feature a spacious private pool. (Yes way!) And if your crew ever tires of it, fun awaits at the resort’s oceanfront infinity pool and stretch of white sand beach, which is exclusively for resort guests. Just note that while a cliffside setting makes the resort incredibly picturesque, it’s impossible to navigate with a stroller — so bring the tweens, teens and even grandparents if they don’t have trouble climbing stairs.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Aruba Resort

embassy suites by hilton aruba resort

A brand that's popular with families because it offers separate sleeping spaces for kids and adults, Embassy Suites recently opened a location in Aruba. (Pinch us now.) The 330-suite hotel boasts a kids' pool and playground and is just steps away from the iconic Eagle Beach. A breakfast buffet (with made-to-order items) is included in the price, which is already a value. Rooms also feature a kitchenette, so you can stash drinks and snacks and save your budget for the island's many incredible water activities.

New England Cozy

a slide that says new england cozy with a whale tail

Lakes, lighthouses and hiking trails make New England a great place to visit in almost any season.

Quisisana Resort, Lovell, ME

two friends frolic in a lake at the quisisana resort, a good housekeeping pick for family vacation destinations

Kids will get a digital detox at this all-inclusive lakefront resort , but they’ll be too busy playing to miss their devices. Without TV or a Wi-Fi signal in the comfortable, air-conditioned rooms and cabins, they’ll be fully immersed in the slew of included activities — from paddle boating to tennis to sandcastle-building. They might even learn to kayak or catch their first fish.

At night, music fills the resort. Broadway-style shows, held in a new outdoor theater, entertain all generations. There’s something about the fresh air and a choice of lollipops that keeps most kids from getting too wiggly, and the caliber of the performances is at least on par with good community theater.

The three included daily meals — with menu items like lobster rolls and Maine blueberry pie — will leave your crew’s bellies happy and full. And if you do need Wi-Fi occasionally, you can pop in the main lobby for a signal. Shh: The kids will be fine without it.

Hidden Pond, Kennebunkport, ME

campfire at hidden pond in maine, good housekeeping's pick for best family vacation destinations

Open from May to October, this nature-focused retreat provides a refuge from city life. Yoga sessions in the garden, a shed filled with arts and crafts supplies for kids, guided nature walks and outdoor art classes are easy-going yet exciting at the same time. Cottages with fireplaces foster togetherness, and complimentary breakfast arrives at your door every morning so there's no need to rush out for coffee.

Smugglers' Notch Resort, Jeffersonville, VT

a family goes biking through green hills at smuggler's notch, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

Nestled in the Green Mountains, this resort is just as fun in the summer months as it is during prime ski season. Besides eight heated pools (some with waterslides!), the action-packed lineup of family activities has plenty to do whether you’re traveling with a toddler, teen or both. Sing-a-longs, magic shows and scavenger hunts keep little ones entertained while older kids will welcome the chance to take a guided hike, design and launch a water rocket or play glow-in-the-dark volleyball. A GH 2024 Family Travel Awards winner, condos at this property accommodate up to five bedrooms, making it possible for extended family and friends to stay together.

Ocean Edge Resort and Golf Club, Brewster, MA

the boardwalk to the beach bar at the ocean's edge resort  golf club, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

Beach, pool, eat, repeat — that’s how your crew will spend laid-back days at this Cape Cod gem . The private beach has gentle surf and at low tide, kids can spy little sea creatures in the tide pools. When the tide changes, head to the heated outdoor or indoor pools. Outdoor movies are the perfect wind-down to bedtime. And if you can pry the kids out of the water, activities like scavenger hunts, curated by the resort’s new director of fun (for real!) await. Just make sure to stay in the “mansion” section of the resort because that’s the part with private beach access.

Sebasco Harbor Resort, Phippsburg, ME

the kids' club at the sebasco harbor resort, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destination

Kids will never forget sleeping in a lighthouse next to the ocean. The resort’s 1945 lighthouse contains recently renovated guest rooms with amazing views, sea breezes and conveniences like a fridge and microwave. The lighthouse rooms are also near the resort’s iconic oceanfront saltwater pool, which recently got a makeover. A vintage bowling alley, weekly pirate cruise and old-school kids’ club add to the New England charm.

Bluebird Cady Hill Lodge, Stowe, VT

bluebird cady hill lodge

A fantastic value, this new '70s-inspired cozy lodge is perfect for families who want to explore Vermont's Green Mountains. The scenic trails of Cady Hill Forest are just steps away and downtown Stowe is about a 10-minute walk. Two- and three-bedroom cottages at Bluebird Cady Hill Lodge have plenty of space for families and a kitchen to boot. A game room, fire pits for s'mores roasting and a pool make hanging at the lodge a nice respite in between nature activities.

California Dreamin'

a slide that says california dreamin' with a picture of a palm tree

Choose your Cali adventure: You can find bustling cityscapes, tranquil trails, stunning beaches and even a fairytale castle.

Los Angeles, CA

morning scenery of griffith observatory and downtown la los angeles is good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

Tweens and teens won’t roll their eyes if you suggest a vacay in L.A. — where, trust us, they’ll ask you to eat at In-N-Out-Burger (look cool and say you already had it on the list). Some more must-dos: Visit the Griffith Observatory for the out-of-this-world exhibits and a stellar view of the Hollywood sign, and if you're an outdoorsy family you can hike down from the observatory to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and famous TCL Chinese Theaters .

The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures , where anyone 17 and under gets in free, is conveniently located near the classic La Brea Tar Pits and the cool LACMA ( Los Angeles County Museum of Art). Some outdoor shopping at The Grove L.A. and a beach day in Santa Monica with a spin on the iconic wheel at the Santa Monica Pier will get you more well-deserved parent cred. Or, you can take a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood , where, for now, you can find the only Super Nintendo World open in the United States. Stay at The Garland in North Hollywood, a Good Housekeeping 2024 Family Travel Awards winner. It has a swanky trolley that transports guests to and from Universal, as well as other kid perks like dive-in movies and a retro-chic family suite with bunk beds.

San Diego, CA

an overhead shot of the loews coronado bay over the water in san diego, a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destination

Can’t decide between heading to the beach or exploring a big city? San Diego has the best of both worlds, with near-perfect weather to boot. Make your home base a beach resort like the Kona Kai San Diego Resort & Spa , San Diego Mission Bay Resort or, if you're bringing a big group, Shore House at Del, a Good Housekeeping 2024 Family Travel Award winner. Intersperse oceanside fun with short drives to the city’s famous zoo and museums in Balboa Park. Plan to spend at least a half day at Liberty Station , a cultural attraction that has many places to eat and shop. New stores and restaurants are open at Seaport Village , which has a classic carousel for kids to ride.

RELATED: The Best Things to Do in San Diego With the Whole Family

Monterey, CA

guests wearing face coverings and enjoying the kelp forest exhibit at the monterey bay aquarium monterey is a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destination

The number one reason to book a vacation in this coastal town: the aquarium. Yes, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is that good. It levels up the typical touch tank experience by letting little kids crawl through tunnels surrounded by tropical fish displays and use squirt toys to learn how animals stand up to big waves. There’s even a padded zone with eye-level exhibits for toddlers! And the whole family will be wowed by the aquarium’s newish exhibition, "Into the Deep: Exploring Our Undiscovered Ocean." Some of the creatures in the 21 live exhibit areas are newly discovered and haven’t even been named yet. Mind blown! Stay at the hotel next door, InterContinental The Clement Monterey .

Disneyland Resort and California Adventure, Anaheim, CA

the ferris wheel at disneyland california adventure disneyland is a good housekeeping pick for best family vacation destinations

If you're looking for a Disney trip with young kids, Disneyland may have the edge over an Orlando vacay. Here are some reasons why: You can get on more rides without as much walking in California, so that means fewer tired and cranky kids. Summer weather is also usually better in Anaheim than in hot-and-humid Florida. And rides like Radiator Springs Racers, which looks like it’s right out of the movie Cars , are Cali-exclusive. The new Villas at Disneyland Hotel offer options that sleep up to 12 guests plus the decor is whimsical.

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@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Make the Most of Summer

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Romantic weekend.

The ultimate romantic weekend in Houston

On a quest for some quality time with your significant other? Houston offers romance, aplenty. Candle-lit dinners, cozy cafes and spicy spas—the lucky in love are well-served in the nation’s fourth-largest city.

The Details

Four Seasons Room

Where to stay:   Hotel Granduca Houston ,  Four Seasons ,  JW Marriott Houston Downtown ,  The St. Regis Houston ,  Hotel Icon , Marriott Marquis  or pick another hotel . Getting around : Traveling from Bush Intercontinental or   Houston Hobby Airport, take Super Shuttle, ride-sharing service Uber or a cab anywhere you need to go. In the city: Take a cab, Uber or use the  MetroRail  to travel between downtown, the Museum District and other neighborhoods. 

Hotel Granduca Houston

Four seasons hotel - houston, jw marriott houston downtown, the st. regis houston, ac hotel by marriott houston.

Noon:  Housed in a 100-year-old log cabin on lush grounds just minutes from Downtown,  Rainbow Lodge  is considered one of the most romantic spots to dine in Houston. The decades-old spot is charming and intimate, with cozy fireplaces and a meandering deck that looks out on a nearby creek. But the food is the main attraction, simple yet delicious prepared—from the cast iron-seared red snapper to braised buffalo short ribs.

2PM: Venture outside for a scenic stroll through one of Houston’s parks and greenspaces. Near the Galleria, the  Williams Waterwall  remains a popular picnic destination for couples. Have your picture snapped in front of the formidable fountain or bring a blanket, for a mid-afternoon nap under shady Oak trees. If you have time, the nearby  Houston Arboretum and Nature Center  is worth a visit. There, five miles of hiking paths wind through the western edge of Memorial Park.

5PM: Heat things up in the kitchen at one of Houston’s many cooking classes. Join other lovebirds at  Central Market ,  Sur la Table and Well Done Cooking School for sushi making, tapas 101 and Tuscan-themed lessons. For more information on local cooking classes .

10PM: All that cooking is bound to make the two of you thirsty. For vino and small plates, hit the dimly-lit, Midtown-set  13 Celsius , where you can sip beneath the stars or lounge atop an interior loveseat.

Houston Arboretum & Nature Center

Central market houston, saturday  .

9AM:  Say ahhhh, during a tension-relieving, muscle-relaxing visit to  Fiori Spa . The Tuscan-inspired retreat, located near The Galleria, is known for its underground thermal salt water pool, eucalyptus-infused steam bath and courtyard pool. Break away from stress with dual, good-enough-to-eat services like the luxury De Lusso Massage complete with hot stone and bamboo shoot massage and acupressure, or the Letto De Fiori shower-less body treatment that exfoliates, hydrates, and relaxes the body while incorporating massage techniques.

11:30AM: Venture a few blocks east to  The Galleria  and dig into fresh oysters and grilled fish at  The Oceanaire Seafood Room . The two-story restaurant offers white tablecloth service and a daily-changing menu. Afterwards, indulge in some retail therapy—more than 375 stores fill the three-level Galleria complex— and maybe even pick-up a hot new, outfit to wear for date night.

MFAH People Paintings

1:30PM: Before heading back to the hotel to freshen up for dinner, satisfy your culture craving in Houston’s picturesque  Museum District . Even though you won’t have time to hit all 19 institutions, it’s still worth a visit. Find glittering gems and jewels on show at the  Houston Museum of Natural Science , new works at the  Contemporary Arts Museum Houston  and more than 63,000 pieces at  The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston .

7PM: Romance abounds at Midtown’s iconic  Brennan’s of Houston . The Texas Creole spot is a delight to loyal couples near and far. Pairs can also find linger-worthy meals at Cafe Annie  and The Grove among Houston’s many dining gems.

9PM: For a calm and collected evening, go for post-show drinks at La Carafe or take a stroll through  Discovery Green Park . Night just starting? Dance the night away at  Sambuca , squeeze in an indie flick at  AMC Houston 8  or join party people for live music at the  Continental Club  or the  Mucky Duck .

The Galleria

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9AM: Start the day right with an ease-into-the-day breakfast in Houston’s  Montrose  neighborhood. Named one of America's Most Beautiful Neighorhoods in a 2011 Travel + Leisure round-up, the area offers endless appeal in the form of quaint cafes, boutique shopping and top-notch restaurants.  Blacksmith ,  Common Bond ,  Empire Café  and  Hugo’s  are all solid options for breakfast and brunch.

10AM:  Rent a bike at B-Cycle stations around the city. Spend the morning exploring the shady, tree-lined  Montrose  neighborhood, checking out all of the bungalows, cottages and mansions that line the historic ’hood.

1PM: Wrap up the weekend’s visit with coffee (or a glass of vino, if you're so inclined). At  Agora , cozy seating and a stellar patio provide a welcome retreat for cappuccino-sipping couples. Across the street,  Cafe Brasil  is another top-notch option for a last sip or bite on your trip.

Common Bond - Heights

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31 Things to Do for the Big Eclipse This April

On April 8, the moon will blot out the sun along a roughly 4,200-mile-long, 115-mile-wide path across North America. Where will you watch it? Here are some ideas.

A young boy lying on the grass, with black-framed eclipse glasses on, wears a blue jumpsuit with NASA patches on it. He is pressing the glasses to his face with both hands.

By Danielle Dowling

Danielle Dowling, a Times editor with degrees in physics and science education, also reported on last October’s annular eclipse from Texas.

Wherever you go to catch the total solar eclipse on April 8, those three or four minutes of daytime darkness — no matter how spectacular — might not be enough.

You may want to build it out to a weekend’s worth of activities while staying somewhere fun or indulging in some self-care. Or maybe you would prefer to pair this bucket list event with another. After all, it will be about 21 years before another total solar eclipse of this magnitude returns to the contiguous United States.

With the path of totality starting on the Pacific coast of Mexico, heading northeast through 13 U.S. states and ending in Newfoundland, Canada, there are an overwhelming number of eclipse-oriented events to choose from, with something to satisfy just about any desire. Here are 31 options.

Hang out with NASA

Space nerds, kids at heart and actual children may appreciate a little guidance from NASA scientists, who will spread out across numerous celebrations along the eclipse’s path — at free or reasonably priced events in places like Mazatlán, Mexico; Austin, Dallas, Kerrville, Stonewall and Waco, Texas; Carbondale, Ill.; Cleveland; and Niagara Falls, N.Y. NASA has also teamed up with Purdue University and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for a day of track tours and STEM symposiums ($20) at the racetrack.

Get hitched

Among astrologers, a solar eclipse represents a new beginning, so it offers a rather auspicious backdrop for nuptials. At Total Eclipse of the Heart in Russellville, Ark. (April 6 to 8), you can come for the weekend of hot air balloons, barbecue and ax throwing, and stay for the mass wedding ceremony, which will be held minutes before the eclipse. Tickets are $100 for each day’s festivities (there’s no extra fee to get married); aspiring newlyweds must register for the ceremony at totaleclipserussellville.com/elope . At the Texclipse Music Festival in Junction, Texas (April 6 to 8), you can exchange vows en masse during the eclipse, as well as treat yourself to local entertainment and a chili cook-off. A weekend pass is $135, and the marriage fee is $100, which includes 10 photographs from the ceremony. For each festival, you will still need to apply for a marriage license beforehand (you’ll probably want to get on that as soon as possible).

Choose your soundtrack

Texas dominates the musical offerings with some big-name lineups. At the Texas Eclipse festival in Burnet (April 5 to 9), prepare to have your senses flooded. In addition to more than 100 acts, including Tiga , the Golden Dawn Arkestra and the Disco Biscuits , the festival will offer a dizzying array of entertainment, including an immersive experience by the arts collective Meow Wolf . A four-day general admission pass is $349, and accommodations range from car camping ($175) to a glamping tent ($1,750). In Waco, the Eclipse Over Texas festival will present free concerts, with Band of Horses on April 5 and Big Boi and Arrested Development on April 6. And over in Austin, at the Moody Amphitheater in Waterloo Park, Vampire Weekend will serenade the sun as it slips into shadow on April 8 (it’s also the frontman Ezra Koenig’s 40th birthday). The show is sold out, but resale tickets are available through platforms like StubHub and Ticketmaster .

Arkansas will also bring the noise. Fans of underground music may want to head to Hot Springs, where the Ecliptic Festival (April 5 to 8) will feature acts like Blonde Redhead , Sun Ra Arkestra , Mary Lattimore , Deerhoof and Quintron . A four-day pass is $385, and day passes start at $70. Glamping packages range from $1,350 to $1,650; if you bring your own tent, camping costs $85 a night, or $300 for the weekend. About 200 miles northeast, in Dyess, you can celebrate the Man in Black before the sky turns black at Johnny Cash’s boyhood home . The event’s full weekend primitive camping package ($400) will get you a 20-by-20-foot spot to park and car camp from April 5 to 9, as well as four tickets to the Arkansas Roots Music Festival, taking place there on April 6. It will also get you four tickets to the NASA Lunch and Learn event on April 7, and four pairs of Johnny Cash Boyhood Home eclipse glasses. Unfortunately, Dyess lies just outside the path of totality, so you’ll need to drive about an hour west to see the eclipse in its full glory.

With the bluegrass musician Ricky Skaggs as one of the top names on its lineup, the Solar Strings festival (April 5 to 8) will fill its 700-plus-acre site in the Missouri Ozarks with the sounds of guitars, banjos, fiddles and more. A four-day general admission pass that includes car camping is $145; glamping packages are also available.

Ride the rails or hit the slopes

A few spots are still available aboard the Solar Eclipse Limited , whose fully restored Pullman cars will leave Penn Station in New York on April 7, headed for Niagara Falls, N.Y. There, the train will serve as a mini-hotel, providing food and accommodations as you take in the celestial sights. If its more-than-$8,000 price tag is a little too rich, you can travel to the village of Arcade, in western New York, and take a trip on the vintage Arcade & Attica Railroad , which will leave at 2 p.m. on April 8 and make a stop to view the totality at 3:19 p.m. Tickets are $22 for adults, $19 for children. If you prefer zipping through the snow, Smugglers’ Notch in Vermont is holding a weekend-long celebration capped off by a Winter Eclipse Carnival from noon to 4 p.m. on April 8.

Make a run for the border

Since the eclipse will start in Mexico and wrap up in eastern Canada, you have the option to go in either direction. If you head south, you’ll most likely be blessed with great weather (the probability of cloud cover in most Mexican towns and cities along the path averages about 20 to 30 percent). Mazatlán is the safest bet. Hotel rooms are still available and there’s an expansive boardwalk where you and your fellow eclipse watchers can gather to view the totality, which will last 4 minutes 27 seconds there.

Up in Canada, the rainbows that hover above Niagara Falls will turn red, as shorter wavelengths of light, like blue and green, are scattered more easily during totality. Prime eclipse-viewing spots in the area include the SkyWheel , the butterfly conservatory and Queen Victoria Park , where the Niagara Symphony Orchestra will kick off a free rock concert as the eclipse reaches its peak. In Montreal, you’ll be able to pair skyline views with daytime darkness on an island in the St. Lawrence River. Parc Jean-Drapeau has teamed up with the Space for Life planetarium to offer an afternoon of education and entertainment before the sun has its moment, all at no charge. The only drawback is that Montreal is on the edge of the path of totality, which means it will be in darkness for just a little over two minutes. (On the plus side, you’ll be in Montreal .)

Entertain the kids

If you’re taking your children to see the eclipse, they will need distractions. What’s better than an indoor water park, like the one at the Great Wolf Lodge in Sandusky, Ohio? Near the centerline of the eclipse’s path, it’s well situated, and its viewing party will offer free wolf ears for the kids and moon pies for everyone. A family suite that includes unlimited access to the park averages nearly $330 a night. You can also find child-friendly activities if you’re willing to travel back in time. Kinmundy Log Cabin Village in Kinmundy, Ill., will open its grounds to visitors from April 6 to 8, and while you won’t be able to stay in one of its 19th-century log cabins, you can explore them, with some occupied by volunteers re-enacting pioneer life. There will be a bonfire each night, and food trucks will be on site on April 7 and 8. Camping and parking for all three days is $150. At the Genesee Country Village & Museum in Mumford, N.Y., the third-largest living museum in the United States, experience life as it was in New York State from the 1790s to 1900. From April 5 to 7, you can attend a magic-lantern show, write a poem with a celestial motif, and sample 19th-century eclipse-themed treats for $17. On the day of the eclipse, $250 will get you and a carload of friends into the viewing area; individual tickets start at $55.

Treat yourself

Add some aahs to your oohs with the Moon Shadow package at La Cantera Resort & Spa in San Antonio, which includes an opening-night reception, a complimentary bottle of bubbly and a viewing party, starting at $3,500 for a three-night stay for two. Or how about a 15-day cruise through the Panama Canal — with a chance to witness the eclipse at sea near Cabo San Lucas, Mexico? Interior rooms are still available for $1,199 on the Emerald Princess , departing from Los Angeles on April 5. Or perhaps you have always wanted to roll down the highway in a luxury R.V., which becomes an asset if the weather takes a turn for the worse and clearer skies lie just a few hours’ drive away. Spot2Nite.com offers packages starting at $625 a night that combine R.V. rentals with campground sites from Texas to Ohio.

Fly the darkened skies

The best thing about viewing an eclipse from an airplane? “You don’t have to worry about clouds because you’re high above them. And at 35,000 to 40,000 feet, you’re seeing the eclipse against a much clearer, transparent sky as opposed to being at ground level,” said Joseph Rao, an associate and guest lecturer at Hayden Planetarium and an avid eclipse chaser who has seen 13 totalities — five aboard an aircraft . Delta Air Lines has been advertising path-of-totality flights from Austin (sold out) and Dallas-Fort Worth to Detroit. Southwest Airlines (which is running a sweepstakes to win a seat) also offers scheduled flights along the path. The downsides of an air-clipse? “You’re experiencing the event in a sort of sterile environment,” Mr. Rao said. Also, the angle of the sun in the sky at the time of totality may not line up with the view from a typical airplane window, which could limit some passengers’ ability to see it unless the pilots bank or set a special course — as a few reportedly did during the 2017 total eclipse.

Know Before You Go

Mind the centerline: When picking the spot to view the eclipse, remember that the closer you are to the middle of the path, the longer the eclipse will last. As you plan your trip, consult an eclipse map for the prime spots.

Factor in traffic: In the United States, there are about 32 million people living along the eclipse’s path, and tons more will be heading toward it. Give yourself extra time.

Bring some cash: If you’re headed to a rural area, the hordes joining you there will most likely tax the infrastructure. If the internet goes down, your credit card will become just another piece of plastic, and your phone a shiny brick.

Have backup eye protection: Most festivals will be handing out free solar eclipse glasses, but if you lose them, you won’t be able to track the moon as it slides over the sun (during the brief few minutes of totality, you can safely look at it without protective eyewear , according to NASA). Check the American Astronomical Society’s list of trusted manufacturers and sellers, then place an order now. Like, right now.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

What’s Up in Space and Astronomy

Keep track of things going on in our solar system and all around the universe..

Never miss an eclipse, a meteor shower, a rocket launch or any other 2024 event  that’s out of this world with  our space and astronomy calendar .

A nova named T Coronae Borealis lit up the night about 80 years ago. Astronomers say it’s expected to put on another show  in the coming months.

Voyager 1, the 46-year-old first craft in interstellar space which flew by Jupiter and Saturn in its youth, may have gone dark .

Two spacecraft have ended up askew on the moon this year, illustrating that it’s not so easy to land upright on the lunar surface. Here is why .

What do you call a galaxy without stars? In addition to dark matter and dark energy, we now have dark galaxies  — collections of stars so sparse and faint that they are all but invisible.

Is Pluto a planet? And what is a planet, anyway? Test your knowledge here .

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Long weekend on NorthWestern WA form Vancouver, CA - Coupeville Forum

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Long weekend on NorthWestern WA form Vancouver, CA

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planning trip for weekend

6 replies to this topic

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This is a lot for 2 nights--it's going to mostly be driving. And you'll have to cross mountain passes to get to Leavenworth; it's like going up to Whistler --there may be tire and chain requirements in place in March. Check the WSDOT site.

https://wsdot.com/travel/real-time/mountainpasses

planning trip for weekend

I agree that this is a lot of driving. In fact, I think it's way too much. Port Townsend and Coupeville are enough. They are both very pleasant destinations, too. Poulsbo is not worth it by a long shot, and Leavenworth is a bad choice for the reasons Christy1 outlined.

I would not try to do all of this with just 2 nights. That would mean one night in Coupeville and the other in Leavenworth, which doesn't mean much time in each actual place when you factor in the driving times. If you want to do Coupeville, then stay in the general vicinity for 2 nights and you can include Port Townsend. Or else choose Leavenworth for both nights so you can see the town and drive around to some of the scenic areas. Leavenworth is a lot of walking, and since she will need breaks there are oodles of places to stop and rest.

I think it is too many places listed for your short timeframe. On Whidbey Island, I've enjoyed staying at Captain Whidbey Inn in Coupeville.

I would not include Leavenworth in this rushed a schedule. In late March it could easily be snowing or raining or both in the mountains, making driving difficult and limiting the sightseeing options. Plus, it's a long drive there and back.

I'd stick to the lowlands and focus on Whidbey Island and the Skagit Valley. In late March (especially this year) the daffodils in the Skagit Valley could well be in bloom (followed by tulips in April) and the snow geese may still be present on the valley floor. I'd look at La Conner as an overnight stop, or at Coupeville or Langley on Whidbey Island. Google the places on this map. https://maps.app.goo.gl/za5Y4DjDkRgjySD58

Skagit Valley daffodils - https://gardyloo.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/080a.jpg

Skagit Valley snow geese - https://gardyloo.us/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/20100319_56as.jpg

Deception Pass - https://gardyloo.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/083b-2.jpg

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Get Spring Break-Ready With Amazon's Top Essentials for Your Next Trip: Swimsuits, Sunscreen and More

Amazon Spring Break Essentials

Whether you're planning a tropical getaway or a weekend escape, Amazon has all your spring break essentials.

Spring break is right around the corner and now is the perfect time to start getting equipped with the travel essentials needed for your upcoming getaway. To help check everything off your packing list, we've found some of the cutest styles on Amazon that are perfect to wear by the pool, beach, or national park this spring. 

Of course, your spring travel essentials should include some sturdy luggage to carry everything on your packing list. And, you can't forget plenty of sunscreen , sunglasses , swimsuits and even some cover-ups .

To help make sure you have everything for your getaway, we've gathered up some of our favorite clothes and accessories from Amazon Fashion's Warm-Weather Getaway collection . Whether you're planning a quick weekend family trip, a beach getaway or a poolside staycation, Amazon has a bit of everything for your spring break look.

From chic attire to must-have gear, shop the best spring break essentials available at Amazon.

Freie Liebe Straw Beach Bag

Freie Liebe Straw Beach Bag

Head down to the beach in style with this trendy beach bag. Crafted from lightweight and durable straw, it provides ample space for all of your essentials, including sunglasses, sandals, cosmetics and more.

With Coupon

Zeagoo Women's 2 Piece Casual Tracksuit Outfit Set

Zeagoo Women's 2 Piece Casual Tracksuit Outfit Set

This breathable linen two-piece outfit offers the perfect casual look for spring. 

Tskestvy 4 Pieces Retro Sunglasses

Tskestvy 4 Pieces Retro Sunglasses

Rock a retro look and block the sun from your eyes with a four-pack of rectangle sunglasses in green, white, black and tortoiseshell.

Bay Laurel Extra Large Beach Towel

Bay Laurel Extra Large Beach Towel

This quick-drying beach towel from Bay Laurel comes in a variety of colors. It also comes with its own bag, which will keep any stray sand stuck in the towel from lingering in your larger beach bag. 

Verabella Sun Hats for Women

Verabella Sun Hats for Women

You can't forget to pack a nice sun hat for your spring break trip. Keep the sun out of your eyes, and easily store this foldable hat in your beach bag.

BRONAX Cloud Slippers

BRONAX Cloud Slippers

Treat your feet with these cloud slippers, which have gone viral on TikTok. The lightweight, breathable and durable slides will mold to your footbed and create a slipper so comfy it'll feel like your walking on a cloud. 

JBL Clip 4

This dustproof and waterproof portable Bluetooth speaker is the perfect size to throw in your beach bag.  

YIMISAN Women's Ribbed Bikini Set

YIMISAN Women's Ribbed Bikini Set

Make a splash this spring with this one-shoulder crop bikini top and low-waisted bottom duo.

Supergoop! Play Lip Balm SPF 30

Supergoop! Play Lip Balm SPF 30

You've found your new go-to lip balm with SPF with this Supergoop! pick. It delivers lightweight hydration with SPF 30 sunscreen and a delicious mint flavor with added honey and sunflower seed oil.

Trendy Queen Women's Summer 2 Piece Outfit

Trendy Queen Women's Summer 2 Piece Outfit

This cotton two-piece outfit will keep you looking stylish and feeling comfortable all season long. Plus, pair it with white sneakers or neutral sandals for a fashionable spring outfit.

Le Specs Air Heart Sunglasses

Le Specs Air Heart Sunglasses

These Meghan Markle-approved sunglasses will easily become a staple in your spring wardrobe — especially since they'll go with, well, anything.

MEINICY Women's Mesh Woven Bucket Hat

MEINICY Women's Mesh Woven Bucket Hat

Stay cool in the scorching weather and protected from the sun's ultraviolet rays with this chic mesh woven bucket hat.

Steve Madden Grace Slide Sandal

Steve Madden Grace Slide Sandal

Stroll the boardwalk or a theme park with your friends or kids this summer in these classic sandals by Steve Madden.

Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan

Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan

With over 40,000 five-star ratings, this battery-powered pocket fan is a best-seller for a reason thanks to its foldable design that is perfect for a hot day at the shore.

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion, Pack of 2

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion, Pack of 2

Formulated for both face and body, Neutrogena's broad spectrum sunscreen offers effective sun protection while being highly regarded for its non-greasy feel.

The Drop Women's Maya Silky Slip Skirt

The Drop Women's Maya Silky Slip Skirt

Pair this lavender, silky skirt with a cropped white tee for a trendy daytime look — or dress it up for a more formal night out.

Viottiset Women's Ruched High Cut One-Piece

Viottiset Women's Ruched High Cut One-Piece

This tummy control one-piece bikini features a drawstring closure and cheeky, ruched high-cut silhouette.

Bsubseach Crochet Cover Up

Bsubseach Crochet Cover Up

Try out the sheer dressing trend by layering this crochet cover-up over your favorite bikini or underwear set for a more daring look.

LILLUSORY Women's Linen Summer Palazzo Pants

LILLUSORY Women's Linen Summer Palazzo Pants

With an airy and relaxed fit, these linen-blend pants feature an elastic waistband, adjustable drawstring and wide-leg design for added comfort.

AslabCrew 2-Way Zipper Unisex Belt Bag

AslabCrew 2-Way Zipper Unisex Belt Bag

Whether you're off to the beach or hitting the trails, this belt bag is a must-have for stashing essentials like your phone, sunglasses, earphones and other small items.

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M25 closure: How to avoid road traffic chaos this weekend

The new interchange at junction 10 of the M25 is expected to be completed next summer

As road closures go, it’s unprecedented. The M25, which has carried traffic around the outskirts of London for nearly 40 years, is to have a section closed completely during daytime for the first time this weekend to allow for works.

For drivers who were looking to use junctions 10 and 11 of the orbital motorway between 9pm on Friday and 6am on Monday, National Highways has given one piece of advice.

Turn off your sat-nav. At least for the diversions.

Road officials are urging motorists only to follow official diversions during the closure, which it has said will add an hour to normal journey times.

Otherwise, it fears, small country lanes in rural Surrey could be gridlocked near the works to build a new interchange

Related articles

Why the M25 is closing — the ambitious plan in maps

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  2. Weekend Packing List, Weekend Trips, Weekend Getaways, Weekend Breaks

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  3. Get the ultimate weekend packing list and tips on how to stay safe and

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  5. Day Trip and Weekend Trip Planner in 2020

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  6. How to Plan an Affordable Weekend Trip in 5 Easy Steps

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COMMENTS

  1. How to Plan a Weekend Getaway in 5 Easy Steps

    Ask friends and family about their favorite weekend getaway spots. Do Google searches for ideas like " romantic getaways in the South " or "best winter weekend getaways in the U.S.". Once you've chosen your destination, you're ready to get on with planning your weekend away. #2. Decide on how you want to get there.

  2. 10 Simple Steps To Plan A Weekend Getaway Or Vacation

    The best way to plan a mini-vacation is to add cities you wish to travel to your phone's weather app. The moment you check the weather for the location you are in, you can also check to find how the weather will be in your future destinations as well. 3. Choose a Destination And be Flexible About It.

  3. How to Plan a Trip in 8 Practical Steps (& What NOT to Plan)

    Instead, pack clothes that all go together and can be mixed and matched easily. I like to keep all the clothes I bring in the same family of colors, with a few basic templates: pants + shirt + cardigan + scarf, say, and then I bring 2 pairs of pants and 4 shirts and 2 scarves to mix and match.

  4. How to plan a weekend trip? Tips + Free planner inside

    Step 6 - Itinerary Planning for the weekend. To plan a 2 - 3 day itinerary, factor in the travel time. If you are driving to the destination, we recommend starting out early. We love sunrises and driving through the city in the morning, to beat the rush. This is also true if you are taking a flight for a weekend getaway.

  5. Travel More Often: How to Plan a Weekend Getaway

    In addition, a short weekend getaway is more affordable than a long, annual trip. Because you only need to plan for two days of accommodations, a few meals, and entertainment, you can save when compared to the costs of a big vacation. Of course, you may also choose to relax as much as possible, which we highly recommend.

  6. How to Plan an Amazing Weekend Trip (38 Tips)

    Get plane tickets. Get a ride to the airport or pay to park your car there for the weekend. Arrive at least two hours early at the airport. You can skip all these responsibilities by going on a road trip. Also, even though the travel time will be faster by plane, it may take you more time to prepare for a flight.

  7. Expert weekend getaway tips to maximize your trip

    Get up early, stretch, and appreciate your time away with alert appreciation. - Jennifer Miner, The Vacation Gals. Sleep when you're dead. Seriously. If you only have limited time, make the most of it. Be sure to know the opening times of everywhere you want to visit and get there EARLY. Stay late.

  8. 7 Tips to Plan an Unforgettable Weekend Getaway

    Sometimes a weekend trip is all you need to have a memorable and rejuvenating experience. Here are 7 tips to help you plan an unforgettable weekend getaway! While long vacations to exotic locales can be exciting and adventurous, they can also be costly in both time and travel expenses. Sometimes, a weekend trip is all you need to have a fun ...

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    Anytime we travel, we usually wish we could spend more time in a destination. So if it's possible, making a weekend trip into an extended weekend trip is always a plus for your planning. Even one more day can add on lots more fun! 10. Be Flexible. The biggest tip for weekend trips that we can offer is to be flexible.

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    Wanderlog is the best way to share your itinerary and travel plans with tripmates, friends, and families and collaborate with ease in real time so everyone stays in the loop. Plan your road trip or vacation with the best itinerary and trip planner. Wanderlog travel planner allows you to create itineraries with friends, mark routes, and optimize ...

  12. How to Plan a Weekend Trip

    Are you thinking about planning a weekend getaway? The weekend is a great time to hit the road and see some sights. And, it's less stressful than planning a long vacation.. A weekend trip is good for you in many different ways. Whether you choose to visit a city, relax in a small beach town, or go into the mountains, you'll return home feeling better.

  13. How to Plan the Perfect Weekend Away

    One outfit per day (with layers for temperature changes) Nightwear and underwear. A lightweight day-bag - preferably a backpack to avoid sore shoulders. Lightweight rain jacket. Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen for hot weather. Hat, scarf and gloves for cold weather. Travel-sized toiletries and basic makeup items.

  14. Best Weekend Getaways

    Whether you want to explore a new city, relax on a sunny beach, or enjoy some nature, you can find the perfect weekend getaway with U.S. News Travel. Discover the best destinations for 2023, from ...

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    For family vacations, holidays abroad, or group trips of any sort… from a weekend getaway to an adventure across countries and continents… it's easy to plan your perfect trip with Planapple. Start Planning Your Trip! Planapple: an easy, free, complete travel planning tool for effortlessly organizing trips with friends and family.

  16. Trips: Trip Planner to Plan & Manage Your Travel

    Plan your trip. Trips lets you plan, build and manage your perfect itinerary for adventures of any length, in any location. Start planning. Stay informed about unexpected changes. Trips keeps all your bookings in one place with real-time updates on any cancellations, delays or gate changes that may arise.

  17. 40 Best Weekend Getaways 2023

    Treat yourself to a wellness weekend at the Sage Hill Inn & Spa, a 16-room luxury property set on 88 acres just 25 miles outside of Austin. Spend your days meandering the hiking trails, getting a ...

  18. Road Trip Planner

    In-app RV navigation. Hit the road with safety and ease by using turn-by-turn directions, designed specifically for your RV. Simply enter your rig's size and propane restrictions, and we'll find the best routes to your next destination. Get RV GPS.

  19. How to Plan a Vacation: 12 Tips for Planning the Perfect Trip

    Get Secret Flight Deals. 6. Ask for Time Off. If you're not planning this trip because you already have time off approved, schedule time in your calendar to speak with your boss or submit your time off request as soon as you've nailed down the dates you want.

  20. 8 Steps For Planning A Flawless Weekend Trip

    8. Dress For Success. Check the weather forecast for your location before you go. Make sure to pack extra layers for cold nights, and if you live in the Pacific Northwest, always bring a rain jacket. 😉 If you're hiking, make sure to bring sturdy rain boots and reliable socks. The right gear can make or break a trip!

  21. 29 Top Cheap Weekend Getaways in the U.S.

    Washington, D.C. Courtesy of Washington.org. With 22 free Smithsonian museums including the National Zoo, Washington, D.C. is an obvious choice for a cheap weekend getway. And while many hotels in ...

  22. How to Plan a Trip: Step-by-Step Guide

    Step 7: Get travel insurance. Step 8: Minimize travel risks. Step 9: Pack your bags. Step 10: Last-minute prep. Step 1. Figure out your travel budget. Before you can even begin to plan a trip, you need to take a good look at your finances and figure out how much money you have to spend on your adventure.

  23. Plan a bucket list-worthy long-weekend trip

    Ready for a bucket list-worthy escape that takes three days or less? We created a long-weekend calendar for 2022 so you can look ahead and plan with ease. In 2021, more than a quarter of those polled in Expedia's Vacation Deprivation study said they haven't taken a vacation in over a year. That means millions of people are leaving paid ...

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    Hi. I'd like to ask for your collective wisdom. I am planning a trip at the end of March from Vancouver, CA to Coupeville, Leavenworth and other beautiful towns in the zone.The trip is expected to be from Friday to Sunday (2 nights, 3 days) and I will be taking my mother (75 years old), daughter (7 years old), wife and myself.

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    The M25, which has carried traffic around the outskirts of London for nearly 40 years, is to have a section closed completely during daytime for the first time this weekend to allow for works.