10 Easy Ways To Prepare For Your Next Vacation

Skip the stress of planning last minute by adding these 10 easy prep steps to your trip checklist.

From hotel to car reservations and must-have items, this vacation checklist has you covered, ensuring your upcoming trip goes smoothly.

1. Always Bring Carry On Luggage

Whether you're visiting multiple destinations, want to skip the extra fee of a checked bag, or simply want to avoid lost luggage, carry on luggage is an ideal solution. Be sure to check your airline regulations before your next trip to ensure your carry-on luggage is correctly sized.

2. Take Advantage of Personal Items

If a carry-on bag does not have enough space, bring a backpack as a personal item for extra

clothes, electronics, backup batteries, contact lenses, a bathing suit, etc.

3. Create a Vacation Packing List

While it may seem like extra work to create a packing list first, it will help you stay organized and ensure you pack the essential items. This is especially necessary for extended trips or international travel.

4. Use Durable Luggage for Checked Bags

If you must check bags for your upcoming trip, its worth splurging on durable options. There's nothing worse than needing to purchase luggage mid-trip because your checked bag ripped or tore. Aim for luggage made with polycarbonate, a long-lasting material.

5. Stay Organized With Packing Cubes

Crafted to help organize and compress your items, you can also fit additional clothing into your carry-on or checked bag with packing cubes.

6. Pack Appropriately for Your Destination

Consider your destination carefully before packing. For example, if you're heading on a camping trip, include insect repellent, toilet paper, and one pair or two pairs of extra socks to help keep your feet dry. For high-tourism destinations, pack a money belt.

7. Prep Your Travel Documents

At least a few days before your trip, pack the essential documents, including a driver's license (or passport), travel journal with emergency contacts, travel insurance information, etc. Be sure to put it in your backpack or personal item when all the documents are prepped.

8. Book the Hotel ASAP

The further out you book a hotel, the more cost-effective it will be. Additionally, booking the

hotel in advance is best to ensure you have a place to stay. If you're visiting a location for a convention or large event, you may need to book the hotel six months to a year (or more) in advance.

9. Look for Travel Bundles

Another way to save costs is to find a travel bundle that includes your flight, hotel, and rental car. Depending on the bundle chosen, the discounts may add up to a few hundred dollars or more.

10. Compare Rental Car Costs

If you book your rental car separately, check multiple companies first for the best price and

amenities. Its easy to assume companies like Budget are offering the lowest prices, but that may not always be the case.

Till next time, Safe travels, Bon Voyage and Blessed be the journey!!