National Plan for Vacation Day

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I just learned that today is “National Plan for Vacation” day in the U.S. You don’t have to tell me twice – I LOVE planning vacations. There is something so satisfying about dreaming about my next get-away.

Uncertain Times for Travel

We are certainly living in some uncertain times as far as travel goes. With so many lockdowns and restrictions due to COVID-19, it can be hard to know when it is safe to travel again.

I have had two major trips/vacations cancelled this past year and it was definitely disappointing. But right now instead of feeling disappointed, I am hopeful that things are starting to turn a corner. I am allowing myself to dream that things will eventually be better.

Dreaming of Travel

What is your idea of a dream vacation? Laying on a tropical beach with a good book and fruity drink in hand? On a cruise exploring different ports every day? Meeting Mickey Mouse and having Dole Whip and having to make the hard decision – what ride to go on next? Going to Europe and exploring different cultures and cities? All of those sound amazing to me and it’s hard to pick just one! What is your dream itinerary? Let me know in the comments!

How to Start Planning a Vacation on a Budget

Even if you don’t know exactly when you will take your next vacation, it can be fun to start dreaming and planning. I love finding a good deal, and I get excited just looking and searching for trips. Here are some simple steps to plan your next vacation on a budget.

1. Decide where you want to go.
2. Pick time of year (or approximate time of year).
3. Search for lodging in your desired area (do you prefer a hotel, resort, or condo? Do you want to be able to cook and have more space?).
4. Look up flights to get an approximate price. Depending on the dates, you might not need to book your flights for awhile, but it can be nice to have an idea what things cost. (And right now, a lot of airlines are offering free cancellations or extended cancellations if things change with COVID and you can’t travel).
5. Research ticket prices for excursions/theme parks.
6. Add in other costs – such as rental car or uber, food, spending money (souvenirs!).
7. Start setting some money aside each money to go towards your trip.
8. Start dreaming about your trip!

My Dream Vacation

I have never been on a cruise. I was supposed to go on a 40th girls trip cruise this past November that was sadly cancelled. Ever since I saw the photos of the tropical ports, the on-board spa (and restaurants and shows and activities!), I have been dreaming about a cruise. I know it is not safe yet and I don’t think cruising in the U.S. has started back up again. But ONE DAY this pandemic will be gone and it will be safe to cruise again.

A lot of cruise lines are booking out through 2023. I LOVE just scrolling this site (Cruise Critic) and looking up sample itineraries. It can be therapeutic to try and decide – Hmmm….would we rather go on a Mediterranean cruise or explore England? Or what about an Alaskan cruise? If we go to the Bahamas, which port is the best to leave from? So many fun things to dream about.

I don’t know if I am quite ready to book anything yet. But if the right deal comes along I will probably be tempted. (Kids cruise free! All you can drink package! Shore/Excursion credit!)

Have you ever been on a cruise? Any tips or tricks for us newbies? What vacation are you dreaming about?