Pre-packing can help ensure you don’t forget anything important for your trip.

Pre-packing can help ensure you don’t forget anything important for your trip.

10 travel tips to ensure a memorable trip

With summer well and truly here, many of us are readying for a getaway. Whether you’re dreaming of sandy beaches, mountain retreats or new cities to explore, a few key steps will help ensure a trip that’s memorable for all the right reasons!

1. Plan and book early

Summer is peak travel season, meaning popular destinations and accommodations fill up quickly. To avoid disappointment and secure the best deals, start planning and booking your trip well in advance. This includes flights, hotels, car rentals and any tours or activities you want to experience.

2. Create a budget

Having a clear budget helps you manage your expenses and avoid overspending. Consider all aspects of your trip, including transportation, accommodation, meals, activities and souvenirs. Setting a budget will also help you prioritize your spending and ensure you have enough funds for the entire trip.

3. Check travel restrictions and requirements

In the post-pandemic world, travel restrictions and requirements can change rapidly. Before you finalize your plans, check the latest travel advisories and entry requirements for your destination. This includes vaccination requirements, testing protocols, and any quarantine measures that might be in place.

4. Update travel documents

Ensure that your passport, driver’s license, and any other necessary travel documents are up to date. Many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date. If you need a visa, apply for it well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.

5. Purchase travel insurance

Travel insurance is a crucial safety net that can protect you from unforeseen events such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies and lost luggage. Choose a policy that covers your specific needs and provides adequate coverage for your destination.

Pre-packing can help ensure you don’t forget anything important for your trip.

Pre-packing can help ensure you don’t forget anything important for your trip.

6. Pack smart

Make a packing list to ensure you don’t forget any essentials. Consider the climate and activities at your destination to pack appropriate clothing and gear. Don’t forget important items like travel-sized toiletries, medications, chargers and travel documents. Packing light can also save you time and stress at the airport.

7. Prepare your home

Before you leave, take steps to secure your home. Arrange for someone to collect your mail, water your plants and keep an eye on your property. Unplug unnecessary electronics, set timers for lights and ensure all windows and doors are securely locked.

8. Plan for health and safety

Pack a travel health kit with essentials like Band-Aids, pain relievers, and any prescription medications you may need. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the local healthcare facilities and emergency numbers, just in case.

9. Organize your itinerary

While it’s great to leave room for spontaneity, having a rough itinerary helps you make the most of your trip. Plan your must-see attractions and activities, and allow for some flexibility in case plans change. Keep a copy of your itinerary, including important addresses and contact numbers, both digitally and on paper.

10. Stay connected

Ensure your phone plan covers international travel or consider purchasing a local SIM card or an international plan. Staying connected will allow you to navigate unfamiliar areas, stay in touch with loved ones, and access important travel information.

By taking these steps before the start of summer, you can ensure a well-organized and enjoyable travel experience!

Plan your adventures throughout the West Coast at westcoasttraveller.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @thewestcoasttraveller. And for the top West Coast Travel stories of the week delivered right to your inbox, sign up for our weekly Armchair Traveller newsletter!

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Travel

The M/V Puyallup docks at the Edmonds waterfront on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020 in Edmonds. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Show off your city: The best places to take a visitor

From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, here’s where to impress your guests!

Christmas Lighting Festival, Leavenworth, Washington, the Christmas capital of the Pacific Northwest.
How one village became the Christmas capital of Washington state

Leavenworth, in central Washington, calls itself the Christmas capital of the Pacific Northwest

Amtrak Cascades train 517 to Portland departs from Everett Station on Saturday, Sep. 2, 2023, in Everett, Washington. (Ryan Berry / The Herald)
U.S. federal money moves Pacific Northwest high-speed rail forward

Planning for an ambitious high-speed rail system in the Pacific Northwest will… Continue reading

People take photos of the lights surrounding the the fountain at the the entrance to the Tulalip Resort & Casino in Tulalip, Washington. Olivia Vanni / The Herald
Record Tulalip holiday display lights up the night

The largest light display in Washington is free of charge and open through Jan. 12.

Enchant Christmas returns to T-Mobile Park in Seattle! Enchant Christmas photo / Courtesy Visit Seattle
Why Seattle is a favourite holiday season destination

No matter the time of year, Seattle offers endless opportunities for adventure,… Continue reading

Tourists crowd the Snoqualmie Falls viewpoint to get photos of the falls and the adjacent Salish Lodge & Spa, in Snoqualmie, Washington. Ryan Berry / The Herald
Twin Peaks fans may know this Snoqualmie, WA retreat as the Great Northern Hotel

Salish Lodge Spa is a perfect mix of romance and relaxation – and suspense, if you’re a Twin Peaks fan

The award-winning and locally owned Magnolia Hotel is perfectly located for those wanting to enjoy downtown Victoria. Courtesy The Magnolia Hotel
City lights, cosy nights: ​​A weekend escape to downtown Victoria

“We need to get away,” I said to my husband after the… Continue reading

Mountains in the Spokane area are eying opening day as they start piling up snow.
Let it snow: Spokane-area ski hills ready for winter

It’s always a good sign when a chairlift starts running before the… Continue reading

A rainy day is no match for a city like Seattle, which offers an abundance of wet-weather activities, including a visit to the famed Space Needle. AdobeStock
12 great things to do in Seattle when it rains

An iconic city synonymous with rainy weather, Seattle brilliantly showcases that drizzle… Continue reading

Twede’s Cafe is pictured at the corner of Bendigo Boulevard and North Bend Way on Sunday, June 9, 2024, in North Bend, Washington. (Ryan Berry / The Herald)
Relive ‘Twin Peaks’ with cherry pie and damn fine coffee at Twede’s Cafe

The North Bend cafe, known as Double R Diner on the campy cult-classic, serves up nostalgia and a damn good breakfast.

Avoid being taken in by a fraudster by knowing some of the tell-tale signs. Photo courtesy Canva
Don’t fall prey to a vacation scam: 7 tips to safeguard your holiday travels

It’s a nightmare scenario: you’ve made all the arrangements for an exciting… Continue reading

People enjoy the grand opening of the new Heritage Distillery tasting room at Angel of the Winds Casino on Friday, Oct. 25, 2024 in Arlington, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Heritage, Stillaguamish partner on new Angel of the Winds distillery

Until 2018, it was illegal for tribes to distill on their land. Now, the casino near Arlington has its own tasting room.

Support local journalism

If you value local news, make a gift now to support the trusted journalism you get in The Daily Herald. Donations processed in this system are not tax deductible.