Planning a trip can be both thrilling and daunting, but Travel With Ely founder, Elysabeth Lamoureux, has the perfect guide to help you craft an adventure that meets your every expectation. Whether you’re setting off alone or gathering friends for a shared journey, a well-thought-out plan is key to making your travel dreams a reality. Here’s how to streamline your trip planning process, ensuring your next journey is one for the books.
1. Determine Who’s Going
The first step in any travel planning process is identifying who’ll be joining you. Are you embarking on a solo adventure, planning a family getaway, or organizing a girls’ trip? This decision shapes everything that follows, from the destination to the activities you’ll engage in. Knowing your travel companions’ preferences will help tailor the trip to everyone’s enjoyment.
Photo Courtesy: Elysabeth Lamoureux
2. Set a Budget
Setting a clear budget is crucial to keeping your travel plans realistic and stress-free. Consider all aspects of your trip: travel expenses, accommodations, meals, activities, and even those unexpected splurges. Elysabeth emphasizes that a well-defined budget enables you to explore and enjoy without worrying about overspending, allowing you to make the most out of your journey.
3. Choose the Right Atmosphere
Every trip has a vibe, so it’s essential to decide what atmosphere you’re aiming for. Are you craving a laid-back beach retreat, an adrenaline-filled adventure, or a cultural city exploration? The atmosphere you choose should reflect the interests of your travel group, ensuring that everyone feels excited and satisfied with the destination.
Photo Courtesy: Elysabeth Lamoureux
4. Do Your Research
Research is the backbone of any successful trip. With your group, budget, and desired vibe in mind, delve into travel blogs, review sites, and social media to gather inspiration. This helps you avoid potential pitfalls, like accidentally booking a family-friendly resort during a spring break rush or finding out that your chosen spot isn’t quite what you imagined. Elysabeth’s tip: Pay attention to travel seasons, weather conditions, and any local events that might impact your experience.
5. Create a Loose Itinerary
Once your destination is chosen, it’s time to craft a flexible itinerary. Identify key activities, must-see attractions, and local experiences you don’t want to miss. Consider currency exchange rates, transportation options, and nearby cities or towns worth exploring. Elysabeth recommends keeping this plan loose to allow room for spontaneity – some of the best travel memories come from unplanned adventures!
Planning your itinerary also helps with packing; knowing your activities in advance makes it easier to bring the right outfits and essentials.
Photo Courtesy: Elysabeth Lamoureux
6. Find the Right Accommodation
Where you stay can make or break your trip, so choose accommodations that align with your budget, group size, and desired atmosphere. Whether it’s a luxurious hotel, a vibrant hostel, or a spacious Airbnb, your choice should complement your itinerary and provide a comfortable base for your adventures.
Elysabeth Lamoureux’s travel planning guide offers a structured, practical approach to organizing any trip. By following these steps, you can create a journey tailored to your group’s needs and preferences. Whether you’re off on a solo exploration or coordinating a large family gathering, careful planning ensures that every moment is memorable.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your calendar, start planning, and get ready to embark on an incredible adventure. As Elysabeth would say, the world is waiting – make the most of it!
Published by: Josh Tatunay
