There’s nothing quite like the buzz of planning a trip. Whether it’s a backpacking adventure through Europe, a sun-drenched escape to Dubai, or that bucket-list getaway you’ve been daydreaming about forever, travel is personal. It’s your chance to do things your way—and no two “ultimate trips” ever look the same.
But one thing every traveller has in common? You’ve got to be prepared. Because while spontaneous detours are fun, no one wants to be the person who forgot their passport, packed three coats for Bali, or blew their budget before day three.
So here’s your guide to getting trip-ready like a pro.
Do your research (but keep it fun)
Pinterest boards and travel TikToks are great, but let’s get practical. Start by looking into:
- Accommodation options — hotels, hostels, Airbnbs, or a mix.
- Transport — trains, flights, car hire, ferries (yes, sometimes ferries are a thing).
- Must-see sights — because no one wants to come home and hear “Wait, you didn’t go there?”
Research isn’t about planning every second—it’s about giving yourself enough info to make smart choices. And honestly, half the fun is imagining yourself there while scrolling Google Maps street view.
Pack smart, not stressed
Packing can either be a vibe… or a full-on panic session. The trick is to keep it simple.
- Make a list (and actually stick to it).
- Pack for the climate, not for your fantasy version of it (yes, you will regret bringing jeans to Thailand).
- Think capsule wardrobe—pieces you can mix and match.
- Double-check your luggage allowance. Surprise airport fees are the enemy of joy.
Pro tip: Lay out everything you think you need. Then cut it by a third. You’ll thank yourself when you’re not dragging a 30kg suitcase up three flights of cobblestone stairs.
Get yourself ready
It’s not just about the bag—it’s about you.
Before a big trip, lots of people love a little pre-travel pampering. Maybe it’s getting fresh highlights, a manicure, a spray tan, or even investing in hair extensions that save you from spending hours styling abroad.
Book these ahead of time so you’re not running around the night before, panic-waxing at midnight.
Plan your must-dos (but leave space for adventure)
Every great trip is a mix of planned activities and spontaneous “let’s just wander and see where we end up” moments. So sketch out a loose itinerary:
- One or two must-see landmarks.
- A foodie hotspot or street market.
- A day to just relax (beach, pool, spa—take your pick).
Think of it as a backbone for your trip—you’ve got the essentials covered, but there’s room for detours and surprises.
Budget like a boss
Let’s be real: travel can be as luxe or as budget-friendly as you make it. But either way, you’ll need a plan.
- Work out your daily spend (accommodation, food, activities, a little shopping).
- Add a cushion for emergencies or impulse splurges (because you will want that unexpected souvenir or fancy cocktail).
- Start saving early. Break it down into weekly or monthly goals so it doesn’t feel overwhelming.
Remember: it’s better to have money left over at the end than to be broke halfway through your trip.
My travel glow-up moment
When I first started travelling, I learned this the hard way. Four years ago, I took a whirlwind trip to Australia and Thailand, and let’s just say my packing list included… way too many “just in case” outfits. Since then, I’ve perfected the art of prepping: research, lists, budgets, and yes, a giant world map covered in pins.
Because the ultimate trip isn’t just about the destination—it’s about how ready you are to enjoy it.
Final thoughts
Your ultimate trip doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. It could be hiking across national parks, spending winter in Dubai, or living your best city-girl life in Paris. What matters is that you’re prepared enough to relax and actually enjoy the ride.
So, research, plan, pack, save, and give yourself that pre-trip glow-up. Because when you step off that plane, the only thing you should be worrying about is whether your first drink will be a cocktail, a coffee, or a coconut.
