Vacation Planning 101

by MJ Rosenthal

I remember my childhood vacations, swimming at the beach, hiking in the woods and boating at the lake. I also remember mom yelling at dad because he left the matches at home; dad spending half the day looking for his flip flops; and my brother and I fighting over the one and only beach chair.

If you want your summer vacation memories to be non headache-inducing, you'll definitely need to plan ahead. Here's how:

Smart Vacation Planning

Do the Math Before You Leave

Figure out exactly how much your trip will cost, because guestimations can be surprisingly inaccurate. To plan your budget, research prices for hotels, gas, food, souvenirs, tips, and other incidentals carefully. Then set a daily spending limit so you don't experience financial stress .

Create an Itinerary

Arranging daily vacation activities before you leave home means less hassle when you arrive.

• Look up directions, locations, possible traffic complications, discounts (like internet coupons or AAA), contact information and other important details about the sites you'd like to visit.
• Designate a notebook or folder in which to keep essential numbers, coupons, and brochures. Take it with you on all of your outings.
• Have a list of alternative activities in case the weather doesn't cooperate or you decide you don't want to brave amusement park crowds that day.
• If you are driving, purchase maps or print directions. Test the destination on your GPS system to make sure your software can track the location. Also, familiarize yourself with good spots to pull off the road for rest-stops and restaurants.
• If you have a more laid back schedule in mind, like a week at the beach, consider whether you'll need sandwiches for your picnic basket or ice for your cooler.

Put in on your Calendar

It seems obvious, but may people forget to put all important vacation dates on the calendar. Include planning deadlines as well.

• Payment due dates
• Emails to house/pet sitters
• Prep dates for packing, laundry, car service, etc.

One Month or More Prior to Departure

Talk to the your kids about the trip so they are excited and prepared for travel

Two Weeks or More Prior to Departure

• Create a "TO PACK" list; and save a copy for future use
• Make arrangements for getting to the airport, pet sitters, plant sitters, mail delivery, etc.
• Make a copy of everything in your wallet; take one copy with you and keep the other at home

One Week Prior to Departure

• Pull the luggage out of storage
• Wash the clothing you'll be taking along
• Gather books, magazines and maps
• Give a copy of your itinerary to a friend or family member, including all of your contact information

48-72 Hours Prior to Departure

• Pack luggage
• Put the kids clothing together in outfits and store them in labeled zip-lock bags, so they can identify what's theirs and get themselves dressed (it's a vacation for you, too)
• Pay any necessary bills
• Make a note of last minute items you need to take along (and post it in a obvious location)

Day/Night Prior to Departure

• Put together last minute items, including toiletries
• Store bottles or containers that might leak in re-sealable plastic bags
• Back-up your computer
• Unplug appliances, and turn heat or air down
• Call the airline and hotel to confirm departure times and reservations

You are now ready to enjoy your safe, memorable and organized vacation. Just don't forget the sunscreen.