Life :: Planning a Trip Abroad

Planning a trip does require some organization. How do you stay on top of planning?

I leave in a couple days for one of the biggest trips in my adult life. It hasn’t been the easiest thing to plan because I am planning it for 2 people. Andrew, who has already done a Euro-trip, was uninterested in helping me plan this thing, or make any decisions regarding what he wanted to see or do. So unhelpful. Perhaps I’m just being to caring about what he wants to do ;). Regardless, I’ve been doing research, and trying to figure things out, but I easily find myself overwhelmed. What’s a girl to do?

Apparently, plan a trip. No feedback from a partner going with you is extremely tough. Right now I’m kind of just hoping for the best. I should be better at this for the next trip.

5 Things I have learned so far:

  1. Don’t procrastinate. Time has a way of just flying by, and when you think you have plenty of time – you really don’t. I am learning this the hard way. And I am still procrastinating.
  2. Enthusiasm. It’s harder to stay excited about a trip when every one is asking how excited you are. I am excited, but every time you mention the trip I am reminded about #1 – which leads to just a little bit of anxiety. But as we’re just over a week away, I’m getting really, really excited. 
  3. Packing. I always have good intentions of packing light. I’m a little bit more worried about things I end up buying on that side. Although – I can’t really afford anything that can’t fit in my bag anyways. I have also been compiling lists upon lists of things to bring. I’m always a fan of a good check list, so I don’t forget anything at any point in my trip! 
  4. Budget. Things cost way more than you actually realize, and so it’s good to have a rough ball point figure. Also, when the numbers start to add up – don’t panic. It’s totally worth the money for the experiences! 
  5. Suggestions. Once everyone finds out that you’re going on a trip, if they’ve been there, they will let you know. I’ve heard more suggestions on things to do, places to go and stay, and how to get around. As it’s all pretty informative, I’m always appreciative, but don’t let suggestions force a decision. Only you know what you actually want to do and see. 
I am completely ecstatic that I’m going to be travelling, and as we get closer to the date, Andrew is also getting more excited. Let the countdown begin! Do you have any suggestions to add to this list?

Back to top