Roadtrip 101

Who else knows that summer 2022 will be the best one yet? We have planned for an extended vacation and mini-vacations planned throughout the summer. So much goes into preparing for a fun-filled adventure. And it's so hard to know what you have to plan and what can happen on the fly. Below is a list of all the most important things you have to plan, what is not necessary but nice to know, and what can happen on a whim.

Do these things:

- Have a budget - whole vacation, weekly, daily, etc.

- Check to make sure you have enough leave time

- Decide where you'd like to go to

- Pick dates based on your prioritized factors - Do you want to go during peak season? When is the best time of year to visit? Is there a specific experience you want to have? When would you enjoy the place the most?

- Ask off work and have confirmation before you book

- Make reservations for lodging each night

- Have a couple of places that are a priority to see during the trip

- Make a list of gear needed

- Purchase any necessities for the trip before you leave

- Have maps for navigation use

- Double-check your packing

Nice things to do:

- Have reservations for special activities made before leaving

- Research the best places to go

- Let a neighbor know how long you will be gone

- Add in some fun excursions unique to the area that will be a surprise for others on the trip!

- Create a daily itinerary

- Plan out your meals

- Pack extras

On a Whim:

- Restaurants to eat out at

- Gas station stops

- Places to shop

- Specific trails to hike (unless you have a specific one that requires a permit that you want to go on)

- Ranger programs (check them out at state and national parks)

Planning a vacation can be a daunting task. It takes hours and days to get only the essentials done so that you can go. The memories made are timeless, and the experiences can be otherworldy. I just got done planning our trip to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks that we are going on in just a week!

I began planning our trip in October. And I've gotten the majority of planning done over the past two months. Some trips will require more planning, while others will require less.

Where are you headed this summer? A vacation is so needed at times and can be the cure for feeling stuck in a rut or routine. I am a huge supporter of making vacations a priority. Even if you can only do a long weekend, DO IT!

Now that you have a few guidelines set here, make your plan! Have any questions on what to do next? Or want a suggestion for a long weekend in the south? Email us at followthefernweh@gmail.com

Be inspired + go!

- Following the Fernweh