So, you want to plan a trip but have no idea where to start. Creating a solid itinerary for your trip is the key to having a great travel experience. The best itinerary is the one that lets you manage your time efficiently, and fully immerse yourself in the travel experience. Building an itinerary can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not the best planner. But with a little guidance, you can make an epic itinerary completely on your own! Here are 6 useful tips for creating the perfect travel itinerary.
What is a travel itinerary?
A travel itinerary is simply an outline of places to see and things to do during a trip. It can include flight info, hotel info, restaurants, etc. so that all your plans are located in one place. They can help you stay organized and ease the mental burden of planning during your trip.
You don’t need any special apps or planners to make a great itinerary. I’ve made all of mine with either my phone’s note app or in Google Docs if I’m sharing it with friends! The following tips are easy- to follow and will ensure that your itinerary is both practical and flexible.
Get clear on the basics
The first and most important step of the planning process is to clearly define your travel goals. Are you looking to immerse yourself in local cultures, seek out thrilling adventures, or simply relax and unwind?
These are 3 things you must get clear on:
- Location- where are you going? Are you visiting one city or many?
- Duration- Make note of how long you are going for.
- Purpose of travel– what’s the purpose of your trip? Will you be relaxing, adventuring, or both? Are you going there to see something specific?
Getting clear on these things will shape every aspect of your itinerary, from the destination to daily activities.
Location
There are lots of different ways to pick a destination. Maybe you have a bucket list of places you dream to visit. Or maybe you use social media to search for picturesque destinations.
Maybe you don’t have a specific place in mind, but you’re ok with going wherever your budget takes you.
- If you want to travel but don’t know where use Google Flights or Skyscanner and search by “anywhere” for the destination. This will show you where and when it’s cheapest to fly. You can use this technique to find somewhere within your budget.
- If you already have a bucket list destination in mind, the Hopper app will tell you when it’s cheapest to fly to that location. (But keep in mind, the cheapest time to fly there may not be the best time to visit).
Duration
When deciding how long to go, you’ll face the usual PTO challenges (if you work full- time like me). But you’ll also need to factor in travel time. Depending on your location and flight availability, there’s a chance that you may need to add a couple of days just for transit. Also, be sure to consider how much time you will need to explore your destination in a meaningful way.
Purpose of Travel
What would you like to achieve during your trip? Maybe it’s ticking off a bucket list experience or seeking deeper connections with locals. Your purpose influences not only what you do but also how you plan your days. For example, cultural immersion trips often involve longer stays in fewer places, allowing for a deeper connection. But adventure-based travel might have you moving quickly from one place to the next.
Research your destination
Once you’ve set your travel goals, the next step is to research your destination. If you want to get the most out of your experience, then research is essential. Thorough research allows you to make informed decisions about what to include in your itinerary. Here are some tips on how to research your destination and build the perfect travel itinerary.
Gather Reliable Information
Start by gathering information from multiple sources. In my opinion, the most reliable sources are first-hand ones from travel blogs and official tourism websites. Look for up-to-date information, especially for entry requirements, vaccinations, and transportation. These things change frequently, so I like to check this site frequently since I usually travel out of the US. Add all necessary documents needed to the top of your itinerary to ensure you have everything you need at at the airport!
Don’t underestimate the value of learning from other travelers. Reading reviews, watching vlogs, or joining travel communities on social media can provide you with tips that you won’t find in guidebooks! Firsthand accounts can offer a realistic perspective on what to expect and how to prepare.
Understand Local Culture and Customs
Understanding local customs is crucial, especially for solo female travelers. Researching cultural norms, dress codes, and common practices can help you avoid misunderstandings or awkward situations, and show respect to the communities you visit. For example, knowing whether tipping is customary or how to greet people can make a big difference in your interactions with locals.
You might not be able to learn everything about a place before visiting, but from my personal experience, the locals truly appreciate it when it seems like you’re making an effort to understand their customs.
Identifying Key Attractions and Activities
As you research, make a list of the key attractions and activities you want to experience. I start with a simple search of “things to do in [my location]”. From there, I take some time to look at any relevant travel blog posts or tourism pages that pop up. I also like to use Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube for visual inspiration.
When picking your activities, try to venture away from traditional sightseeing whenever possible. While walking tours are a great way to see a new city, there are many other ways to discover a new place. Try to do more hands-on activities, like taking a cooking class, or an organized hike with a local. Use Airbnb experiences to find these kinds of activities.
Also, consider seasonal activities that might only be available during your visit. Many people already have a general idea of where they want to visit. But they often overlook when the best time to visit is. For example, if you want to go to the Uyuni salt flats to see the mirror effect, you need to go during the rainy season (December to April). Many experiences are seasonal, so make sure you keep that in mind when doing your research.
Be sure to get a general idea of things to see and do before booking anything!
Sometimes, after researching, you might realize that your destination isn’t for you right now. And that’s ok! It’s better to learn this sooner, so you can start researching a destination that is more aligned with your goals!
Consider the Logistics
Logistics are the backbone of the perfect travel itinerary. They include transportation, accommodation, and insurance. They’re probably the least fun part of planning, but managing the logistics early helps ensure a smooth and stress-free trip.
Book your flight
After you decide where you’re going, use Google Flights to book. Once booked, add the flight info to the top of your itinerary. Make sure to note the departure time, arrival time, and flight number.
Transportation
Once your flight is booked, you’ll need to figure out how to get from place to place. Transportation is often overlooked since many assume Uber or taxis are readily available. Depending on where you go, they may not be!
Researching the best modes of transportation for your destination will let you know whether renting a car, using public transit, or even walking is best. I use Google Maps to research the best way to get from place to place—starting from the airport to my hotel/ hostel. Rome to Rio is also a useful site for figuring out transportation.
In cities with extensive public transportation systems, check if you should purchase your pass in advance. For example, in Japan, you need to purchase your rail pass before you enter the country. You can read my guide on that here.
Accommodation
Where you stay can significantly impact your itinerary. I look for hotels or hostels close to the locations I am visiting or that will give me easy access to them. Staying in or near a city center is always a good idea since public transportation will be easily accessible. It might be more expensive, but it could save you time and money on transportation. Alternatively, staying outside the city center might offer more affordable options but require more planning for commutes.
I use Google Maps to compare locations and prices. You might be tempted to pick the trendiest or most budget-friendly location, but make sure to factor in the time and money that will be spent if you pick a location that is out of the way of your itinerary. Try to find a balance between your budget and convenience.
Research neighborhoods that are safe and convenient, and look for accommodations that offer amenities you’ll need, such as Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and laundry.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance might seem like an unnecessary expense, but it can save you from losing money if something goes wrong. Whether it’s a medical emergency, lost luggage, or a canceled flight, travel insurance provides protection against unforeseen circumstances. Check to see if your credit card carrier offers any type of travel insurance or flight protection. This is often one of the perks of having a travel credit card.
If you can’t get insured through your credit card, then check out World Nomads. I’ve used them for all of my trips so far!
Planning Your Days
After gathering all your information, it’s time to start organizing your days! The perfect travel itinerary maximizes your time and ensures you hit all the must-see spots without feeling rushed.
Group Activities by Location
To make the most of your time, group activities by their location. This saves time and reduces transportation costs. For instance, if you’re spending a day in Rome, you should plan to visit the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill all in one day since they are all located within walking distance from one another. When researching your destination, use Google Maps to determine which places are close together.
Also, remember to factor in commute time between activities. Few things are worse than running late to a non-refundable tour, so try to give yourself some cushion in between activities so you don’t feel rushed and stressed. Even if you exclusively plan to use rideshare apps or taxis, leave some flexibility for traffic or other unforeseen events.
Schedule Activities in a Realistic Order
Another key aspect of organizing your days is to schedule activities in a logical order. If possible, start with the farthest or most time-consuming activity and work your way back to your accommodation. This helps you avoid rushing through the later parts of your day and makes sure you’re close to home base after an exhausting travel day.
Incorporate Breaks
This is probably one of the hardest points to remember, especially if you’re type A like me. I always feel like my time at my destination is limited, and I feel pressured to do as much as possible. But don’t forget to incorporate breaks into your itinerary. Take time for lunches and dinners. Research local restaurants, cafes, or street food options near your planned activities. Make sure to look for places that give you the chance to experience local cuisine. If you have dietary restrictions, this is also a good time to find places that cater to your needs.
Even 30-40 minute breaks in between activities can help you feel more rested, and allow you to enjoy your trip to the fullest!
Prepare to Be Flexible
Even the best thought-out itineraries can go left at any time. Maybe the museum you wanted to go to is randomly closed, or one of your tours is canceled due to weather. All of these things have happened to me, all on the same trip. This is why building flexibility into your itinerary is crucial. Being prepared for last- minute changes can save your trip from unnecessary stress.
Create Backup Plans
One way to build flexibility is to have backup plans. For example, if you’re planning an outdoor activities like hiking or a beach day, be sure to check the weather beforehand and research indoor alternatives in case of bad weather. This way, you’re never left without something to do.
Flexible Booking Options
When possible, choose flexible booking options for accommodations, tours, and transportation. Many hotels and tour operators offer free cancellation up to a certain point, which can be a lifesaver if your plans suddenly change. Similarly, booking transportation with flexible times or tickets gives you the freedom to adjust your schedule without losing money.
Embracing the Unexpected
Sometimes, the best experiences come from unplanned moments. Whether you stumble upon or a local market you didn’t know existed, or learn of a new location from a local, these surprises often become the most memorable parts of a trip. When visiting Jordan, I had every detail of my trip planned. Then a local told me about an experience that not many tourists do when visiting Jordan. It ended up being one of the highlights of my trip. You can read about it here.
Being open to simply going with the flow allows you to fully immerse yourself in the travel experience.
Review and Finalize Your Itinerary
Once you’ve put together your travel itinerary, the final step is to review and adjust it. This ensures that your plan is practical, enjoyable, and aligned with your travel goals.
Check for Overlaps
Creating itineraries can be overwhelming and you’re bound to make some mistakes, especially if it’s your first time. Overlaps, such as scheduling two activities at the same time, can cause unnecessary stress and lead to missed opportunities. Make sure to double-check the dates and times of the activities you’re planning, to ensure you’re not double booking yourself.
Share your plans
Whenever possible, ask for feedback from others who have visited the destination or from fellow travelers. They can offer valuable insights or suggest changes that could enhance your experience. Reading reviews from tour operators and social media groups can be great places to get advice and feedback.
Make Final Adjustments
Based on your review, make any final adjustments to your itinerary. This might involve rescheduling activities, switching accommodations, or changing your transportation plans. The ultimate goal is to have a well-rounded itinerary that meets your travel goals and allows you to stay stress- free during your trip!
And, with that, you’ve pretty much built your travel itinerary! It might feel overwhelming at first, but with time it gets much easier. Be kind to yourself and give yourself ample time to plan. You’ve got this!
Be sure to check out my other blog posts for more travel tips, destination guides, and inspiration for your next solo adventure. Happy travels!