After several years of lost travel, we may be feeling a bit rusty about getting back into the swing of things. Many of us are determined to travel to make up for lost time and to nurture our weary souls from what have been several dreadful years. Now, more than before, traveling requires some level of planning to make sure we are both safe and comfortable. Question is how do we get started?

Whether planning a series of short trips or a long trip, we all need to plan and prepare with some care because things may go wrong, regardless.

Below is a checklist that I have put together to help me think about my travel plans for now and in the future.

Step #1. Check all of your credentials to make sure that whenever you decide to travel, your passport is not six months away from expiring. Make sure you have a vaccination card that is updated if you plan to travel internationally. Also, make sure your driver license is updated  if you plan to be on the road or renting a car. You may want to consider updating your driver license a REAL ID for domestic travel within the USA without the use of your passport. This will be a federal requirement pushed back to May 2025. If you plan to do a bit of international travel, you may want to apply for a TSA Global Entry card to get through US Custom quicker in time to catch your connecting flight. There is also Clear, another US service for getting through security without waiting in line at a cost.

Step #2  Now we can decide how many trips your planning to take this year (or can afford) and what is the timeframe for those trips.

Step #3  Where do you want to go and by when? (most likely the hardest step). If planning to travel internationally check to see that those places have minimal restrictions or a visa with specific health requirements. Travelers should check with the State Department for vaccine requirements since decisions can change on a day-by-day basis. Find the latest travel and health restrictions for your trip by connecting to sherpa.com/travel-restrictions. Use their interactive map to discover COVID-19 or other vaccination requirements, quarantine protocols, and entry restrictions for anywhere in the world.

Step #4  Decide how much you plan to spend and research the cost of your trip. There are several websites that can help you identify the true cost of traveling such as Budgetyourtrip.com which allows you to assess the true cost of traveling alone or with someone. Also, study the currency exchange of the country you are visiting to be able to budget better.

Step #5  Next determine lodging availability before you book the flight. If you plan to book your flight using points, you need to do this as early as possible.

Step #6.  Purchase travel insurance to protect yourself from any sickness or injury. I have used my travel insurance when traveling to keep up with my health. There are so many options. You need to take some time and research what they are based on your family needs, your age and any health conditions you may have.

Step #7  Once you booked your flight and accommodations, you can then research the type of tours and activities you like to do when you arrive at your destination. Also, there are so many travel bloggers that share their travel experiences that could help you plan better. I do it all the time. During high season, consider booking your tours or excursions early, including the renting of a car. Booking tours and tickets online for venues is becoming the norm and reduces you waiting in long lines, especially in the hot weather.

Step #8  Depending on how long you plan to travel, you need to manage your home while you are away. Make a list of tasks such as pausing the mail and packages, paying bills, watering your plants or taking care of your pets.

Step #9 Last Step — Packing, regardless of the length of your trip, I recommend using my packing list to guide you especially if planning a long trip. Click here for my gratis/free packing checklist. Remember, less is best.

Bon voyage and don’t forget to send photos!

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