20 travel tips for planning (and enjoying!) the perfect getaway

While it is true that many seasoned travelers are able to score last-minute deals, planning ahead is usually the best way to save money — and hassle. At least 3-4 months before your trip, start searching for flights, accommodations, and activities in the area you're hoping to visit to get an idea of how much you'll need to save. 

Being a little flexible with when you're planning to leave and return can help you save a ton of cash on flights and hotels. It's generally cheaper to fly on a weekday, and hotel rates also tend to be cheaper. Depending on your destination, you may also be able to save substantial money — and beat the crowds — by traveling just before or after the peak season begins. 

It sounds boring, but planning an itinerary in advance of your trip can really help you make the most of your time. Spend a little time researching travel routes, finding cool activities to do, and trying to plan in a way that allows you to maximize the days you've got in the mountains or at the beach. 

There's nothing more frustrating — or less relaxing — than a trip that's planned down to the minute. Just make sure you've got an idea of at least a few major things you'd like to do on each day of your vacation, like hiking a certain trail or visiting a specific theme park. Be sure to scope out food options, like restaurants and grocery stores, too. 

Before you start just throwing stuff into your suitcase, make a list of the things you'll actually need. Be sure to consider special gear (like swimsuits for the beach or hiking boots for muddy trails) and don't forget to include all the chargers for your gadgets. 

Once your travel and accommodations are booked, make sure you budget enough cash to actually have a good time on vacation. It's possible to do that on a shoestring budget, just make sure that you've got a few nice meals and some emergency cash for incidentals that pop up along the way. 

Whether you're flying or driving, headphones can be an absolute life-saver when your traveling companions are making a ton of noise, especially if they have noise-canceling capabilities. Wireless headphones are an especially compelling option because you won't have any wires to get tangled up in your backpack. 

Use an old makeup bag or other zip pouches to make an easy-to-carry first-aid kit that contains all the essentials: pain medication, antibiotic ointment, bandages, allergy medicine, antiseptic wipes, and anything else specific to your own health needs. It's also a good idea to bring along anti-diarrheal medication and antacids should any stomach discomfort arise. 

Waiting for checked baggage is terrible, but having your luggage lost is even worse. Stick to a well-organized, high-quality carry-on bag to skip that hassle altogether. Just make sure before you leave that your carry-on suitcase actually fits the dimensions of your airline's overhead bins so you don't end up checking your bag anyway. 

A nice tote bag is certainly chic for travel, but a backpack is so much more practical. Not only does a great backpack offer tons of pockets for organizing, but it also won't be as heavy on your shoulders when you're rushing through the airport trying to make a connection. 

Considering all the chaos of airline travel this summer, getting to the airport early is just a good idea. If worst comes to worst and your flight is canceled, you'll hopefully know with enough time to rebook, and you can avoid any of the anxiety that comes with trying to make it to your gate before the boarding doors close. 

After schlepping to the airport and making it through security, you're probably going to want a snack. Most solid foods can be brought through TSA screening checkpoints, and it's so much cheaper to bring your favorite snacks from home than pay a premium at airport shops. 

Air travel is stressful, especially right now, and being a jerk isn't going to get you anywhere. Even if you're frustrated, being super polite to the gate agents and flight attendants you encounter isn't just the right thing to do — it might actually get you better service. 

Sometimes, bad stuff just pops up — you get sick, your flight is canceled, something comes up at work — right before you travel. Depending on the policy you purchase, many travel insurance companies offer coverage for travel mishaps (including canceled flights) that can give you serious peace of mind if something bad happens. 

Even if they don't match your outfit, your most comfortable shoes are the best shoes for traveling. Between airports and outings, you're likely going to be doing a lot of walking, and few things are worse than blistered, pinched feet. If you are prone to blisters even in good shoes, pack a few hydrocolloid bandages in your first aid kit to keep your feet in good shape through all the walking. 

Even if you're traveling to the tropics, bringing a lightweight shawl or wrap is always a good idea. It might be chilly on the plane or at your hotel, and you can always use it to jazz up a basic dress or top for a night out at your destination. 

If you like to vacation frequently, signing up for a credit card that offers airline miles or other travel rewards can help you save cash and bring some serious perks. You'll have to do some research to determine which card is best for you depending on your own personal financial decision, but saving up miles can add up to free flights, hotel rooms, and more over time. 

Streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max allow subscribers to download movies and TV shows, which means that you can watch your favorite entertainment even while your phone is required to be in airplane mode. Just make sure to download your episodes at home — airport WiFi can sometimes be shady. 

Before hopping on the plane or gassing up the car, let your bank know that you're headed out of town. Transactions in strange locations can trigger fraud alerts, which could leave you without a credit or debit card when you're hundreds of miles away from home. A quick phone call before you go will help prevent those awkward "card declined" situations. 

Whether traveling domestically or internationally, always take photos of your driver's license, vaccine card, or passport. If something happens and those essential documents get lost, having photos of your identification can help you figure out a way home.