Travel Planning Revisited

Back in December 2020 I wrote an article on how I planned my travels. However, I didn’t mention how I kept that information filed and handy.

Like in an office where a lot of information and data is kept on file, some digitally on computer and others in written format filed in cabinets, the same is done with travel plans. I file all my travel information into a folder and separate the information under different headings, then I store the folder(s) on my desk or file them away in a filing cabinet, easily accessible when I need to consult or update them.

How do I separate the information I collect?

Principally in two folders; one with the destination(s) I’ll be travelling to and the other for places I would like to visit in future travels. The folder for immediate travel is marked as “Travel Plans” or the trip name. The other folder “Future Travels” where I keep files of destinations I would like to visit, etc. This folder can also be named “Travel Research”. In both folders I separate the info under the following headings.

Headings:

• Destination & Itinerary (including a map)
• Accommodation
• Transport
• Places to Visit (Sightseeing)
• Activities
• Where to Eat
• Shopping
• Weather (What to Wear)
• Public Holidays & Events
• Visas & Entry Requirements
• Advisories

In the Travel Plans folder if you have confirmed bookings/reservations place them either at the front or the back of the folder where they are easy to access. On the inside cover of the folder paste or staple a sheet with the headings leaving room to one side for check boxes to tick off tasks that need to be done before travelling. It’s not a complicated process but this refines your travel planning and makes it easier to know what has been done and what hasn’t. A checklist of sorts.

Destination & Itinerary

General info about the destination(s): history, culture, language(s), climate (weather), currency, shopping hours, public holidays, etc.

Add the itinerary listing all the places to visit and a map to visualise directions of travel. Use Google, Apple Maps or other map/navigation apps for a printout. You can expand the list adding dates, times and locations where you’ll be and mark these on the map printout(s).

Accommodation

Check the travel aggregators like Trivago, Hotelescombined and booking sites like Booking.com, Expedia, etc., to get an idea of room prices and the types of accommodation and their location in relation to airports and public transport.

Transport

Research all methods of public and private transport: buses, trains, taxis, Uber (and similar), hire cars, ferries, etc. Also if there are (free) shuttle services from hotels to/from airports.

Sightseeing

Jot down all the places of interest and then plan an itinerary and a time schedule. If visiting galleries, museums, events and other places where they charge an entry fee work out approximate costs. Also check whether you need to pre-book, perhaps online several weeks or months ahead.

Activities

This could be surfing, snorkelling, scuba diving, paragliding, etc., and other adventure or leisure sports and activities such as: cycling, hiking, trekking, mountaineering and canoeing. List places, contacts, and items you’ll be taking with you or perhaps renting.

Eat & Shop

Read up on the cuisine and the foods available at the various destinations. Where to eat on a casual basis: street food stalls, cafes, bistros, tavernas, etc., and formally at restaurants where you may have to book ahead.

Climate/Weather

Dictates what you’ll be taking with you to wear. Make a shortlist of items to expand and select at time of travel. If going into tropical and mountainous regions be vigilant about the possibilities of weather changes.

Public Holidays & Events

Make sure to know exact dates when you’ll be travelling and take into consideration any public holidays and events that may fall during that period. Public holidays may affect transportation, places to visit, shopping hours, etc. Events, museums and art galleries may necessitate pre-booking as well as concerts and sporting events. Take note of any cultural events. Most are free but make sure to research beforehand just in case they are paid or invitation only events.

Visas and Entry Requirements

The need for a Visa depends on the country you are visiting, your citizenship, purpose of travel and length of stay. Other entry requirements are a valid passport with at least 6-months before expiry, proof of sufficient funds, return ticket and health insurance. There may be other requirements. Confirm these with the embassy or consulate of the country you’ll be visiting.

Advisories

Something that may be out of your control but keep eyes and ears open and be sure to take the right action even if it has to be premeditated. Transport strikes that involve: public transport, trains, airports, etc., may happen at any time and will cause a lot of angst. Be prepared to call airlines, hotels, etc., to reschedule and change bookings. Keep emergency phone numbers handy. Insurance is not on this list but be prepared for these kind of setbacks by purchasing the right cover.

Travel planning is not that hard. It just takes a bit of patience and clarity. When the information is dissected and separated under the right headings and a timeline (itineraries and schedules) are sorted out, it all becomes clearer. No worries, angst or frustration. Take it as a challenge. I do and it is one of the reasons I find it enjoyable. Hope it is for you too.

Cheers