We have all been travel-starved over the past few years, and now that the world has opened up again, we are flocking to the travel destinations we put on hold. This pent-up desire has opened up new challenges to travel.

Though there are many tips that can help you on your journeys, these are the four that quickly came to mind.

Plan a day to relax.

1. Are you flying to a different time zone? I encourage you to hold off planning anything on your first day at your destination.

Allow yourself a day to adjust to the time difference. Your first day is a great time to visit the spa, relax by the pool or beach or simply explore on your own. Your body will thank you for a day to adjust!

Airports are busier than ever before.

2. Allow extra time on your travel days.

Many fellow travelers are excited to be off exploring the world, which means you’ll encounter lines a little longer. You may experience a longer wait at the airport and customs and immigration, but you are on vacation, so don’t let that bring you down. Instead, prepare yourself mentally and pack extra patience.

Skip the baggage carousal.

3. Travel lighter.

As someone who struggles with this every time I travel, I rolled my eyes when I heard this. However, you’ll reduce your stress level if you can fly with a carry-on only. It’s no secret that airlines are facing challenges with lost luggage, so why not remove the possibility your luggage will be lost? A guest shared the idea of using packing cubes in her carry-on, and I am here to happily say you can get a lot in your carry-on with packing cubes.

4. Do not wing it.

Make arrangements in advance if you have your heart set on seeing or experiencing specific places. For example, have you always wanted to go to the top of the Eiffel Tower? Have you always dreamed of seeing the Tuscan Countryside and visiting the Chianti vineyards? Have you looked forward to swimming with the dolphins for years? Please book these tours before you travel. Many travelers are exploring the world this year, and you don’t want to be disappointed if your tour or activity is sold out.

It goes without saying that travel, especially these days, requires a travel professional on your side to navigate all the new changes to travel as well as the numerous details that go into elevating a great vacation into a fantastic one. 

Contact me if you wish your next vacation to be a memorable one for all the right reasons.