pre tour itinerary

How to Create a Brilliant Tour Itinerary

By Breanna Lawlor

Share this article:

• Facebook icon
• LinkedIn icon
• Twitter icon

Do you enjoy puzzles? Sure, they can take hours to complete, and there’s no set method to approach them, but isn’t it so satisfying to plunk in that last piece and admire your handiwork?

Designing a tour itinerary is a lot like completing a puzzle. It might take a little longer than you thought when you initially set out, and there’s no one way to design a tour. Many possible variations can get you to your destination and delight guests along the way.

Just for fun, imagine what would happen if you marketed a tour without a tour itinerary? It’s hard to picture guests feeling confident that they’d receive enough value without having an idea of what to expect.

Understandably, a tour itinerary acts as a trip plan for your guests planning a vacation and wanting to feel prepared. So, we’ll look at what you need to include in the different types of tour itineraries in tourism and how to display them in an easy-to-digest way for your prospective guests.

What is a tour itinerary?

A tour itinerary acts as a roadmap for your future guests. It tells them what they’ll be doing and seeing should they opt to book your tour. Plus, it outlines arrival time(s), frequency and duration for each tour.

Before you begin laying the groundwork for your tour, see what some of your competitors are offering. Grab a few brochures to explore details, highlights and overall tour structure.

For guests, part of the draw of booking with a tour operator is having a pre-planned itinerary. This means travellers can simply show up and enjoy the tour.

Picture yourself in a potential guest’s shoes. They’re looking at different tour options, trying to decide what activity and where to book. A detailed tour itinerary simplifies the booking experience for prospective visitors and can be a powerful marketing tactic in motivating these visitors to book your tour.

So, right in your tour introduction, describe the experience to travelers as if they were on the phone or standing in front of you. To sound approachable and lighthearted, try speaking your tour itinerary description aloud. There are many components you’ll need to factor into your itinerary and we’ll dive into those next.

Components of itinerary in tourism

Let’s say you’re evaluating whether to offer one type of tour or a range of options, try to imagine what guests will be curious about. It’s important to determine how much you can fit into your tour’s duration without pushing the timeframe.

Your guests are seeking experiences that will immerse them in the local culture and foods. As a tour guide, this is an amazing opportunity to showcase off-the-beaten-path locations and experiences designed to provide guests with an authentic experience.

In your tour description, included details that customers might ask about so they can self-screen instead of booking a tour that isn’t quite right for them. When working on drafting up an outline for your tour itinerary, make a note of what you want to lead with. For example:

• Is this tour suitable for kids?
• What type of weather can guests expect while on tour?
• Is there a certain type of experience or skill required to enjoy this tour?
• Will guests be able to take photographs on tour?
• Is a lot of walking involved on this tour?
• Do tours run frequently or are they only offered at a certain time?

A tour itinerary will look different depending on whether you offer hourly, single-day and multi-day experiences. Here are some basic steps to follow when looking at components of a tour itinerary:

1. Start by researching ideas for your tour

Deciding on what to offer is a challenge. Before you decide on your tour name and start marketing, ensure you explore a handful of ideas. You’ll want to see how seasonality affects your future plans, discover the type of equipment you’ll need. Factor in variables like weather and guest numbers before committing to a specific tour type.

2. Evaluate the competition

You might have a brilliant tour plan in mind, but is it realistic? When creating a tour from scratch it’s wise to understand your competition and whether your ideas are realistic. So while the possibilities are endless, building sustainable tour business needs to look at the competition in your area.

3. Look into partnering with vendors or attractions

When evaluating opportunities to share the workload, are there fellow experience providers that your tour business might align with?

Sure, some might look like competition at first glance, but what if there’s a way to benefit from offering experiences in the same region? Consider exploring partnerships that offer complimentary activities, meals and chances to visit unique landmarks that might save you doing some of the work.

4. Decide on the mode of transportation

As you fine-tune the plan for your tours, you’ll need to figure out how travellers will move around. Your transportation needs will be based on guest count and whether you’re planning to visit uneven terrain while sightseeing on tour.

5. Find out where to accommodate guests

One of the biggest challenges of multi-day tours is in coordinating the logistics. Accommodation, meals and transportation will all need to factor in your group size.

Since longer tours typically come with a higher price tag than hourly or single-day experiences, guests expect almost everything to be taken care of for them. Fortunately, with larger groups, you’ll be privy to lower rates for blocks of hotel rooms and the ability to book at early-bird rates.

So, while might make more sense to seek out different types of lodging, like entire homes instead of a hotel, accommodations will need to align with the type of experience you’re offering guests. If you’re offering a high-price tag tour, guests may be pretty surprised if they’re offered a more rustic experience.

6. Plan the route

Part of the fun of designing a tour is trying it out yourself to see if you’re enjoying the experience. There’s a saying I remember from 11th-grade math that runs along the lines of failing to prepare is preparing to fail. If you’re pouring energy into perfecting a tour itinerary on paper, you need to give it a dry run to see if your expectations match reality.

7. Walk it out

So, consider doing a walk-through or inviting a few friends to join for the added benefit of another perspective. This will help fine-tune the details and assist with getting the timing down. And, as you grow more familiar with your tour, you might discover better ways to approach the route or plan out points of interest.  

For some National and Provincial Parks, you’ll also need to obtain a permit in advance just to visit certain sites. In Canada, you’ll want to research the Parks Canada website and here for information on permits in the USA , Based on your location, you’ll want to coordinate with your closest Tourism office.

Example of a tour itinerary description

Creating memorable experiences for your guests starts with how to market your offer. When describing a tour, you want guests to develop an emotional connection to the experience.

Let’s say you’re planning to offer a 2-hour paddleboard sunset cruise in the summer months. Your introduction could describe it as something along the lines of:

“Imagine gliding across the pacific ocean with unparalleled views of the scenic coastline, finishing with the warm glow of the sunset in a protected area of the harbour. You’ll have a whale of a good time. We hope to “seal you” you soon for our most popular 2-hour summer sunset paddle tour.”

In just a few sentences, guests can imagine themselves immersed in the experience. You’re highlighting the possibility of seeing ocean wildlife while simultaneously describing the serenity of this tour.

To further support travelers reading the full itinerary, aim to make your copy and tour descriptions easy to scan. To do so, add in plenty of bullet points, bold and photos to highlight components of the tour in a visual way. 

Common tour intinerary questions

• When will the tour(s) depart and return?
• What is the frequency of your tour? 
• Where will the central meeting point be? 
• Is accommodation be included in the tour?
• Do you offer transportation to and from the tour?
• Will extras be available on site or for purchase? 

Then, in the next section, repeat important information like meeting locations and tour frequency along with whether pricing differs depending on the time or date of booking. Are guests required to book in advance or book private tours if they book four or more spots? Address all of the questions in your tour description and make it easy for guests to find out if yours is the right type of tour for them.

3 different types of itineraries in tourism

Imagine you’re evaluating whether to offer an hourly or full, single-day tour. To deliver on a promise, explore how much you can fit into your tour’s duration without pushing the timeframe. 

• Hourly tours can run anywhere from 1 – 4 hours, based on what you’re going to include in the tour
• Plan for an activity that doesn’t make guests feel rushed by including enough time to put on extra gear or listen to a safety briefing pre-tour
• While on a walking tour, make a point to visit few landmarks, while also allowing guests “free time” to take photos and understand the culture
• As a bonus, you’ll be able to stay on schedule and still accommodate time for your guests to take photos

2. Single Day Tour

• A single day tour might last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours
• Curate a schedule that accounts for buffer time
• Account for ample time for guests to take photos
• Clearly describe if/when any meals are included
• Structure sightseeing for when places are less busy
• Describe meeting locations and tour frequency

3. Multi-day Tours

• Determine accommodation options for groups 
• Describe the type of transportation plus pick-up/drop-off locations
• Source suppliers for meals and restaurants
• Plan out transportation to and from each new location
• Factor in a few different activities to entertain different guests

Whether you’re offering short adventures or multi-day tours , make a point to test out your tour. This will allow you to see if your timing is accurate and if you need to make any changes. As a result, you’ll be able to make adjustments that help to elevate the experience for all of your guests. 

Final thoughts 

Designing a tour itinerary isn’t just about fancy words and shouting from the rooftops; it’s about designing a tour that your guests want to book. 

Travelers seek out activities and experiences that align with their expectations. So, if you’re hoping to create a tour itinerary that is attractive, you need to play into their interests and what you know works.

So many factors go into whether people decide to book; the images you choose, the layout of your website, your marketing tactics and the type of tour experience you offer. 

Knowing this, if you can prepare travelers and exceed their expectations, you’ll have guests raving about their trips — inspiring more guests to book with you. 

Want more tips like this in your inbox?

Subscribe to the Checkfront Newsletter

Read new tips on how to get more bookings every month.

Related Articles

How to start a Tour Operator business in 2024: A step-by-step guide

Dreaming of running a successful tour company? Check out these strategies!

• Business Tips

3 tips to tackle cart abandonment and capture more bookings in 2023

Imagine this: a shopper comes across your website and finds an enticing experience offering. They read your product description, flick…

Search Blog

Subscribe to our newsletter.

Get tips and strategies to grow your business and impress your guests.

Blog Categories

• Booking Management
• Guest Experience
• Marketing Strategies
• Operator Highlights

Game-Changing Organization and Planning Books

How to reach your goals when you have no motivation (top motivation tips), 66 romantic rainy day date ideas.

• The Ultimate 2024 Book List
• After Moving Checklist: What to Do After You You Move In
• Cyber Monday Tips, Secrets, and Game Plan
• How to Prepare for Your First Day at a New Job
• How to Develop a Successful Job Search Routine
• X (Twitter)

A Complete Pre Travel Checklist

Planning and preparing for an upcoming trip can be a stressful process.

But, it doesn’t have to be!

Take the stress and anxiety out of traveling by creating a comprehensive pre-travel checklist.

This will ensure nothing is forgotten, allowing you to enjoy your trip worry-free.

Let’s take a look at the most common pre-travel to-do items to create your perfect, customized pre-trip task list today.

This post may contain affiliate links where, at no additional cost to you, I may receive a commission if you use them. I only recommend products I use, trust, and adore. Please read my  disclosure policy  for more information.

Get Organized Fast!

Turn this pre-travel checklist into a project to easily focus your efforts and manage your time using this easy-to-use free project planning checklist and planner.

Pre-Travel Checklist

Before you skim the tasks below, be sure to pull out a sheet of paper, notebook, blank document (or whatever you prefer) to take notes. Only write down tasks that apply to you and your situation.

This way, by the time you’re done reading this list, you’ll have your very own, customized pre-travel checklist ready to go!

Tip: You can edit the free project planner pdf (download above) and save it to your computer. This way, the list is completely customized to fit your needs and can be quickly printed before every trip! 🙂

6+ Months Before Departure (complete as soon as possible)

• Determine travel dates
• Confirm travel dates with any other party traveling with you
• Request time off from work (consider taking an extra day as a buffer and recovery day)
• Check passport expiration date (and apply for a renewal if necessary)
• Check for any required immunizations (and get them done if necessary)
• Fill out and submit a travel visa (required for some international travel)

1-6 Months Before Departure

• Create your pre-travel checklist
• Set a budget for the trip (and make sure it fits within your annual and monthly budget )
• Save up for your trip (you can use this super cute travel savings box )
• Outline an itinerary
• Look up travel deals, milage points, and coupons before booking anything ( Rakuten usually has some great ones!)
• Plane tickets
• Other transportation tickets (trains, ferries, etc.)
• Ground transportation (car rentals, light rail, or anything else to/from the airport)
• Parking at the airport
• Parking at other locations
• Hotel rooms, vacation rentals, or campsites
• Activity tickets
• Tour reservations
• Consider purchasing travel insurance
• Organize transportation and/or parking between your home and the airport
• Find a home or pet sitter
• Make plans for your pets
• Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (through the US Dept. of State) to allow them to reach you in an emergency

Two Weeks Before Departure

• Check your luggage to ensure it is in working order (order new luggage if necessary)
• Create a packing list
• Inventory travel items
• Purchase any necessary travel items
• Check TSA regulations at departure and arrival locations (modify packing list if needed)
• Add a luggage tag identifier and contact information for any checked baggage
• Begin wearing new travel shoes or hiking boots to prevent blisters on your trip
• Place a stop order on your mail and newspaper service (for the US, you can do that here )
• Inform your security company of your trip
• Create a list of people to get souvenirs for
• Check in with your supervisor and coworkers, remind them of your vacation and create a plan if needed

One Week Before Departure

• Purchase travel snacks
• Contact your bank and inform them about your trip (so they don’t cancel your card while you’re away!)
• Take out cash to have on hand (including small bills and foreign currency)
• Finalize trip itinerary (including meals)
• Inform a trusted friend or family member of your trip and give them a key to your home in case of an emergency
• Create a Post-Travel Checklist to ensure a smooth return home
• Make at least one freezer dinner meal to have when you get back (this is a life-saver!) – Learn how I meal plan and prep in this post
• Get ahead in your home-related chores (laundry, cleaning, etc.)
• Check your yard, put away any tools and lock exterior sheds and storage
• Check in with home or pet sitter
• Organize a gift or payment for your house or pet sitter
• Make sure all bills are set to auto-pay (or pay them in advance)
• Download any useful travel apps (including the app for your airline)
• Set up international calling with your phone provider
• Get ahead in your work-load
• Delegate any work tasks you can
• Reschedule any meetings and appointments

Related: Get Back on Track After Travel FAST with this Ultimate Post-Travel To-Do List

2-3 Days Before Departure

• Check the weather at your destination
• Pack your bags
• Create a list of anything you can’t pack yet and leave it in your bag (like your phone, keys, etc.)
• Weigh your bags and check that they meet regulation
• Make a copy of your passport and debit cards to have as a backup
• Take a photo of the inside of your bag (in case it gets lost)
• Confirm all reservations
• Download entertainment for the plane, train, etc. (eBooks, movies, music, podcasts, etc.) – here are my top book lists if you are looking for a great new read!
• Charge all electronics
• Fill up your vehicle’s gas tank
• Clean out your fridge
• Clean the house
• Run and fold all the laundry
• Grocery shop for non-perishable items for when you return home
• Set out any instructions, pet food, etc. for home or pet sitter
• Complete or prepare for any tasks you can on your post-travel task list
• Create a “Getting Back to the Office” list
• Complete a weekly review and plan the week for after vacation (both work and personal life)

Related: My Favorite Book Lists To Keep You Entertained for Hours on End!

One day before departure.

• Check into your flight
• Print out a copy of your boarding pass (Tip: have 2 copies, always keep a backup!)
• Save a copy of your boarding pass to your phone
• Check your travel itinerary and set any alarms to help you remember when to wake up, leave your home, arrive at the gate, etc.
• Check in with your house sitter or pet sitter one last time
• Water your plants
• Set up a self-watering system for your plants
• Feed and water your pets
• Complete any extra pet-related tasks (clean the litter, give extra food, bring to pet sitter, etc.)
• Declutter the house
• Set timers for your interior lights ( these timers are cheap and work great)
• Close your blinds
• Set up an automated email response that says you’re out of the office, and what date you’ll return
• Shut down your workspace (shut down the computer, put away items, take out the trash, etc.)

On Travel Day

• Finish packing
• Double-check that you have packed your essentials (phone, keys, wallet, passport, prescriptions, boarding pass, other tickets, etc.)
• Weigh your bag one last time
• Take out all the trash
• Unplug all electronics and appliances
• Check the thermostat
• Lock all doors and windows
• Set your security alarm
• Double-check that you closed the garage (Home Alone vibes, anyone?)

Pin this post for later reference!

Work Pre-Travel Checklist

For convenience, here are the tasks in the above lists that are directly related to work:

• Request time off from work (as early as possible)
• Check in with your supervisor and coworkers, remind them of your vacation and create a plan if needed (1-2 weeks before)
• Get ahead in your work-load (1-2 weeks before)
• Delegate any work tasks you can (1 week before)
• Reschedule any meetings and appointments (1 week before)
• Create a “Getting Back to the Office” list (2-3 days before)
• Complete a weekly review and plan the week for after vacation (2-3 days before)
• Set up an automated email response that says you’re out of the office, and what date you’ll return (1 day before)
• Shut down your workspace (1 day before)

Must-Have Pre-Travel Home Essentials

Here are some items that will make travel preparation much easier!

• Indoor Outlet Timers: Using these timers is a cheap and easy way to make it look like someone is home. Just simply set the timer and plug in your lights, and your lights will turn on/off at the specified time each day.
• Indoor Plant Self-Water Bulbs: Fill these beautiful glass globes with water just before you leave and they will slowly water your plants while you are away.
• Luggage Scale: These are a great way to ensure you don’t make the time-consuming and expensive mistake of having your luggage be overweight.
• Bright Luggage Tag: Having a bright luggage tag is an easy way to identify your bag and ensure that, if it gets lost, it can easily be returned to you. I also love these bright luggage straps for extra protection.
• Pet Camera: It can be difficult to travel knowing that you won’t see your pet for a while. But, having a pet camera can help! There are two great options: the cheaper indoor camera or the more expensive pet camera that throws treats . I’ll admit, I definitely have the latter on my wishlist!

Must-Have Travel Essentials

In addition, here are some travel essentials I absolutely swear by.

• Packing Cubes: I am a huge supporter of packing cubes. It makes packing easy and keeps your clothes organized during your trip. This set is a great choice , it is cheap and gets the job done.
• TSA Approved Leak Proof Toiletries Set : Using a toiletries set makes packing and going through TSA a breeze. When you buy a set together, you can ensure it will all fit within the regulated dimensions.
• Toiletry Hanging Bag: Having a hanging toiletry bag is a super functional way to store your cosmetics and other essential items when traveling. You can easily find what you need and stay organized throughout your trip.
• Portable Charger: You do not want to get caught traveling with a dead phone. Trust me, I’ve been there (and missed my flight because of it). You will never find me traveling without a portable charger now, it is probably one of the most important travel essentials!
• Waterproof Phone Case: If you’re heading to the beach, a water park, or anywhere else with water, you might want to consider snagging a waterproof phone case. It’s a cheap way to ensure your phone stays protected.
• International Power Adaptor: If you’re traveling internationally, be sure to snag the correct power adaptor so you can use your electronics! You don’t want to skimp on this one, or you’ll be saying goodbye to your electronics quickly.
• Carry-On Sized Roller Luggage: If you’re in the market for new luggage, this is a great option . Be sure to double-check the dimensions with your flight requirements before you purchase!

Further Reading

Be sure to check out these great related articles to ensure you’re next trip is stress-free:

• The Ultimate Post-Vacation To-Do List (Get Back on Track FAST!)
• 24 Amazing Stress Management Techniques
• The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List (55 Essential Items You Can’t Forget!)
• The 10 Hiking Essentials – You Don’t Want to Be Caught on the Trail Without These!

Travel Inspiration and Itineraries

Looking for some travel inspiration? Check out these awesome travel itineraries!

• The Ultimate Utah Mighty 5 Itinerary
• How to Plan the Perfect Utah Road Trip
• 19 Things You Can’t Miss in Denver, Colorado
• The Ultimate Yellowstone National Park Itinerary
• Australia’s Top 10 Destinations
• 10 Things You Must See When Visiting New Zealand

There you have it, my ultimate pre-travel checklist! Don’t forget to write out your own task list and begin as soon as possible. Happy Travels!

Oh yeah, and don’t forget to make a Post-Travel To-Do List to ensure everything runs smoothly when you return.

Related Posts

Comments are closed.

• Work With Me
• Disclosure Policy
• Privacy & Cookies Policy
• Terms and Conditions of Use
• Career & Finance
• Productivity

Privacy Overview

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

The Essential Pre-Trip Checklist

Caroline Costello

Caroline Costello's travel accomplishments include surviving a 2 a.m. whitewater rafting excursion in the Canadian wilderness, successfully biking from Dusseldorf to Cologne without a map, and gaining access to a covert pizza speakeasy in New Orleans.

Caroline is an active member of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW). Her work has appeared on USA Today , the Boston Globe , AOL.com, MSNBC.com, ABC News, TODAY Travel, and CruiseCritic.com, among other publications.

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

For a stress-free, tranquil trip, preparation is key. If you’re getting ready to go on vacation, download our pre-trip checklist to help you take care of the essential tasks before embarking on your getaway. This customizable and editable chart includes everything you’ll likely need to do before heading out the door, from arranging pet care to taking care of finances. Download the list and add in any extra preparations you might need to complete—and you’ll be well on your way to a worry-free adventure. NEW: Download a mobile-friendly version of the pre-trip checklist.

Pre-Trip Checklist for Home/Pets

• Turn off AC/fans
• Take out trash
• Clean out fridge/throw out food
• Return due library books
• Close/lock windows
• Unplug electronics
• Turn off lights/set timer for lights
• Notify home-security system co.
• Arrange house sitter
• Place stop order on newspaper
• Place stop order on mail
• Stock up on pet food and litter
• Arrange pet sitter or kennel stay
• Obtain documentation for required pet vaccinations

Pre-Trip Checklist for Finances/Health

• Visit a travel clinic if traveling to a foreign country
• Program ICE (“in case of emergency”) number into your phone
• Check overseas medical coverage
• Refill prescriptions
• Get necessary immunizations
• Make copies of passport/ID
• Notify CC co./bank of travel
• Pay necessary bills in advance
• Research entrance fee costs
• Create trip budget
• Take out cash at ATM
• Obtain foreign currency
• Get small bills for tipping

Pre-Trip Checklist for Itinerary/Flight

• Look up baggage fees for airline
• Add new luggage tags to your suitcase
• Download travel apps/e-books
• Set up away message
• Set up flight alerts via text
• Weigh packed luggage
• Set up a travel plan for cell phone
• Charge all electronics
• Remove previous airline luggage tags
• Check in online/print boarding passes
• Confirm rental car reservations
• Confirm flight, train, bus reservations
• Confirm hotel reservations
• Create/print itinerary
• Check weather
• Notify friends/family of travel
• Check your passport expiration date
• Program phone numbers into cellphone
• Arrange transportation to the airport

More from SmarterTravel:

• The Essential Beach Packing List
• 10 Things You Should Never Pack in Your Checked Bag
• 10 Things to Pack That Will Save You Money

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2012. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Australia: Upscale, 8-Night Cairns, the Gold...

Down Under Answers

Greenland: Luxe, All-Incl. 11-Nt Exploration Small-Ship...

Swan Hellenic

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Trending on SmarterTravel

• Destinations
• Travel Tips
• Travel With Us
• Paid Travel Internship
• TTIFridays (Community Events)
• SG Travel Insider (Telegram Grp)

The Ultimate Pre-Trip Planning Checklist — 12 Things to do Before Your Next Trip

Pro-tip: Don’t keep these pre-trip plans for the last minute!

Photo credit: Annie Spratt (@anniespratt) via Unsplash

Pre-trip planning can be just as important as the trip itself (if not, more tbh). Therefore, we’ve put together a checklist of things for you to do/think about as you plan out your next dream holiday.

1) Sign up for a multi-currency card

If you don’t already have a multi-currency card, now’s a good time to sign up for one. You get the convenience of going cashless without paying for it with jacked-up exchange rates like with credit cards.

This is especially useful when you’re travelling in countries that prefer cashless payment (many parts of Europe as well as major cities in Asia). You could even save the trip to a physical money changer and travel with zero cash!

My personal favourite is YouTrip , which offers real-time exchange rate conversion over 150 currencies and has a clean app interface that allows you to easily track your travel expenses.

*Pro-tip: It’s also useful for online shopping when you’re not travelling! You’ll be surprised, a few bucks saved here and there can definitely add up to quite a bit.

Once registered, all you have to do is link your YouTrip card to your local debit or credit card to transfer money over. Using the YouTrip app, you can either use the “Exchange” function to change your currency in advance or just leave the credits in your home currency and the app will convert it at the time of transaction.

If you haven’t gotten a YouTrip card yet, use the promo code < TRAVELINTERN5 > to get S$5 when you  sign-up for a YouTrip account !

Revolut is another good alternative. On top of the usual functions of obtaining currencies at favourable rates, there’s also no extra fee when you withdraw from ATMs (up to a certain amount).

Read also: The Best Multi-currency Travel Card For Travellers — YouTrip vs Revolut vs InstaReM vs TransferWise Review

2) Download budgeting apps

If you haven’t started putting money aside for travels, now’s a good time to save up. Simply calculating your estimated budget and putting aside a small sum every month already sets your pre-trip plans in motion!

You can roughly estimate your trip budget by shortlisting the activities and experiences as well as type of accommodation you fancy.

P.S. Our budget itineraries are pretty useful for that! 😉

Allocating a pre-trip budget also ensures you’re not spending more than you can afford. To stick to your plan, we recommend downloading a budget app.

Our favourite is Trail Wallet . The app is user-friendly and organises your spending into categorises such as food, activities, transport, etc. You can also set the exchange rate so you’ll always know how much you’ve spent in your home currency.

For Android users, TrabeePocket is another favourite for its similar easy-to-use functions.

3) Get in shape for your next adventure

Nothing brings you down more than being short of breath at the start of your hike 🥵

Or when you run out of energy to snorkel further to see more fishies in the sea 😭

Even exploring a city can really drain your energy if you’re not used to walking long distances.

If you know your trip involves hiking, sea activities or even just a whole lot of urban exploring on foot, make sure to prepare your body for it!

As someone who travels for work , I can confidently say being fit makes the trip a lot more enjoyable. Working out doesn’t need to be heavy-duty or take up hours of your time! It can be as simple as having night walks in the park or a quick 8-minute full-body workout .

Feel free to skip this tip if you’re lounging by the beach, though 🍹

4) Shop for smart travel essentials

Instead of rushing to buy what you need the week before your trip, why not stock up on essentials early?

Uniqlo is my favourite place to shop for basics such as T-shirts and bra-tops which are versatile with many outfits and saves luggage space! There’s also has great options if you’re travelling to colder climates! If you’re travelling in winter , now is a good time to buy off-season pieces as prices are usually marked down.

Shopee is also great for pre-trip shopping. Apart from affordable fashion, you can also find other travel essentials like USB charging adapters , refillable silicone bottles and packing cubes that are perfect for every trip.

Read also: 13 Travel Gifts Any Jetsetter Will Love — Starting From Under S$15

5) Relook your packing list

Do you really need 14 tops for a two week winter trip?

Our rule of thumb is that you only need to pack about a week’s worth of clothes no matter how long the trip. We’ve even travelled a month on just a cabin sized backpack !

This might be surprising but other than Southeast Asia, backpacks are also more convenient in places like Japan as many subway stations don’t have lifts or escalators!

If we’re travelling across multiple cities — whether it’s Asia or Europe — a backpack is usually our choice of luggage!

Read also: Ultimate Travel Packing List: 35 Essentials to Pack for Long-Term Travel

One tip is to look out for places where you can do laundry. When travelling in colder seasons, it’s also easy to simple re-wear and match different tops with the bottoms to change the look entirely.

Read also: The Secret to Packing Lighter — 7 Travel Essentials for the Smart Traveller

6) Pick up the local language

Knowing simple phrases of a country’s language can be helpful in making friends with locals. So if you have extra time, why not try to learn the language?

My personal favourite is the app Duolingo — it turns the whole learning experience into a game and there all kinds of languages (even High Valyrian if you’re going to Essos)!

Read also: 10 Free Online Resources to Learn a New Language — Japanese, Spanish, Korean and More

However, if you happen to be in a rush, or if you simply don’t feel like committing to learning a new language, a quick way is to create a cheat sheet of useful everyday phrases and store it in your phone.

Omniglot is a great website to use when compiling your cheat sheet. It has 250 languages, complete with audio to help you get the pronunciation right.

For quick and easy referencing on trips, download the offline language pack for Google translate. This will come in handy if you happen to miss your last bus and need directions from locals!

Also check out our destination pages for 10 of the most essential phrases you need in each country.

7) Put together a sickass trip playlist

Photo credit: Fixelgraphy (@fixelgraphy) via Unsplash

What better way to get you in the mood than a playlist that gets you grooving? This comes in handy when you’re road tripping with your pals or on a long train ride to the next city.

Spotify is the easiest place to get creative with your playlists. You can compile songs that perk you up in the morning or your friends’ favourite sing-a-long tunes.

Not sure where to start? Check out our playlist that’s full of chill vibes, perfect for long drives along the coast or a dreamy staycation!

8) Find Out Which Countries Are Open to International Travellers

Greece will be opening its borders on 15 June .

If you’re hoping to travel soon, the options are currently limited as most borders are closed. However, some countries have announced dates when they’ll be reopening as the COVID situation gradually improves.

Countries like Thailand, Bali and Iceland are in fact scheduled to reopen for international travellers by June 2020. Find out which countries are available for travelling by keeping this page bookmarked !

Be prepared that travel will be different from before. There will be more steps and measures at the airport and during the flight to lower the chances of catching the virus during transits. The last thing we want is to be sick while on holiday!

Read also: Travelling Out of Singapore After COVID-19 — What to Expect

9) Consider travelling solo

A long period of lockdown has us feeling the effects of cabin fever and isolation. This might seem ironic but to me, nothing is as recharging or illuminating as solo travelling. If you’ve never experienced travelling solo, now’s the time to work toward checking it off your bucket list.

The most liberating thing about solo travelling for me is being able to explore in my own time and at my own pace — something you don’t get to do as much when you have to accommodate your travel buddies.

The idea can seem daunting at first but travelling on your own doesn’t mean you’re alone. You’ll find yourself connecting better with locals and other travellers, which always makes the trip extra meaningful and special. They can give you a more intimate insight into their culture and even take you to hidden gems that other tourists don’t know about.

Read also: A Beginners Guide to Solo Travelling For The First Time

10) Or travel with us!

If solo travelling just isn’t your thing but you’d like a more immersive experience into a different culture, check out TTI Experiences ! Join us and other fun, adventurous travellers on exotic locations with access to meet elusive local communities, like the Mongolian Reindeer nomads . It’s a genuine adventure like no other!

Be one of the first 50 participants to sign up for the  North Mongolia Reindeer Expedition  and get a 25% discount (U.P. S$5,390)! You save S$1,400 and your spot is valid till Dec 2021* — of course we’ll only be travelling when it’s safe to!

* Extendable if the travel restrictions are extended.

11) Learn how to edit your travel photos

A skill I picked during circuit breaker was learning how to edit my travel photos better with Lightroom . With all the tools in the system, Lightroom can either seem like a magical place or a hell hole of confusion. However, once I got the hang of it, the journey to achieving the perfect picture was very satisfying.

For the more visual learner, there are many helpful Youtube tutorials on how to get started. If you’d like a greater challenge after honing the basics, why not try figuring out your style and making your own presets!

Read also: Lightroom 101: 9 Simple Techniques That Will Instantly Improve Your Travel Photos

12) Interact with other travellers

Photo credit: Travis (centre)

Even after googling in-depth about a destination, there are times where research and reviews cannot match up to a friend’s personal recount. I personally prefer talking to other travellers who have been to places I plan to travel to.

On Telegram, SG Travel Insider is a great place to get that second opinion. Here you’ll be able to connect with other travel enthusiasts for advice and suggestions on where you’re heading to next!

Photo credit: Nicola Nuttall (@nicnutt) via Unsplash

Travel is not the same as before. With most borders closed and few flights operating, our skies have been pretty silent this year.

However, as the pandemic slowly improves, countries are announcing their plans to reopen their borders to international travellers — there is hope! If you’re thinking about backpacking for your grad trip , or visit Iceland when it opens, there is an abundance of helpful guides and itineraries on The Travel Intern to get you started on your pre-trip planning.

Whether you’re learning a new language , creating a playlist or shopping online for travel essentials , these are small ways that can make a big difference during your trip.

That said, there’s no specific formula to pre-trip planning — that’s what makes travelling unique to each person. The final pre-trip tip I can leave you with is to expect the unexpected. Our ‘perfect’ plans might take unexpected turns, but we can still turn seemingly bad experiences into amazing ones!

What other pre-trip plans do you usually make before each trip? Share with us in the comments below!

For more travel inspiration, follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  YouTube , and  Telegram !

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Travel Intern (@thetravelintern) on Aug 15, 2019 at 6:30am PDT

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

The Ultimate USJ Guide and Tips (2024) — Universal Studios Japan

Mobile Payment in China: Step-by-step Guide to Using Alipay and WeChat Pay without a Chinese Bank Account

Singaporean Guide to Travelling in Retirement with S$2.7k a month

The Best Card for Overseas Spending — Multi-currency Cards vs. Miles Credit Cards

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Travel Laptops in 2020 – Thin, Light and Powerful

19 Unique Travel Experiences You Can Buy That Make You Richer

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

11 Unique Things to Do in South Australia — Quirky Wineries,...

7 Boutique Hotels in Singapore For an “Out of the Country”...

How to Pay in China Without WeChat or Alipay — New...

11 Things to do in Clark, Philippines — A Quiet Adventure...

20 Things to Eat-See-Do in Sabah’s Capital Besides Climbing Mount Kinabalu

• Terms Of Use
• Privacy Policy

INSTAVENTURE

For an Instagram-worthy Instant Adventure

WHAT'S AN INSTAVENTURE?

INSTAVENTURE is your personal Trip Designer!

We research, plan, and organize your trip so you don't have to!

Do you want to plan a vacation but have no idea where to start?

Do you want to travel the world, but don't know how to find the best places to stay, the best areas to visit and the most awesome activities to do?

Are you tired of researching and sifting through the overwhelming amount of choices, or asking your friends on social media for their recommendations?

We're here to do it all for you! 

We offer personalized travel itineraries, customized to you and your travel companions, so no two travel experiences are alike! We'll tell you where to stay and map out a day-by-day (or hour-by-hour!) itinerary for you to follow for maximum fun! No need to plan anything, it's all taken care of, so you can just use your vacation to relax!

New York, New York City, Chicago, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Bahamas, Bermuda, Philadelphia, Philly, Miami, Florida, Orlando, Greece, Santorini, Washington DC, Boston, Bali, California, Hawaii, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Dallas, Austin, Outer Banks, Virginia Beach, Baltimore, Richmond, Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Vermont, Seattle, Alaska, France, Paris, London, Spain, Portugal, England, Scotland, Ireland, Barcelona, Amsterdam, Cabo, Vienna, South Africa, Mexico, Mexico City, Acapulco, Cancun, Curacao, Morocco, Egypt, South Korea, Singapore, Philippines, Manila, Bora Bora, India, Australia, Melbourne, Sydney, China, Shanghai, Thailand, New Orleans, vacation, trip, planning, travel, travel agent, trip planner, help planning a trip, itinerary, planner, customized, personalized, guide, quiz, research, best things to do, top 10, where to eat, what to see, best bars

How INSTAVENTURE WORKS

Take the INSTAVENTURE Quiz to share your preferences!

Whether you like sports or spas, parties or parks, walking or biking, we want to get to know you.

A private pool in the jungle? A kitchen in the city-center? A balcony overlooking the ocean?

We've got you covered!

We'll contact you for your free consultation to lock down all the details!

Sit back and relax while we get to work!

We'll present you with your finished itinerary including transportation, accommodations, activities, restaurants, and a map.

You complete your planning by booking directly with each venue, with direct links clearly highlighted in your itinerary. 

This gives you the freedom to change your activity times as you wish, and keeps you in charge of exactly how much you spend! Because we do not offer inflated travel packages, we are able to find you the lowest cost for each booking.

A simple few clicks of your own helps you to SAVE LOTS OF MONEY! 

SAMPLE ITINERARIES

Curious what a travel itinerary looks like? Explore below to see what your next trip could include! (These are actual previous client itineraries!)

Porto & Lisbon, Portugal

Adventure Plan

Lagos, Nigeria

Leisure Plan

Options to fit your lifestyle and budget

There are three options:

The Leisure Plan

The Adventure Plan

The Relax Plan

LEISURE PLAN

Adventure plan.

-Flight choice

-Accommodation choice

-List of each activity/meal chosen based on your interests

-Applicable hours

-Official link for more information and to make a direct booking

First 3 Days Included

Each Additional Day 

The benefit of this option is that it allows you to move at your own pace and set your own schedule with no need to worry about running out of things to do. You can mix and match activities on the fly to have a more relaxed-paced vacation.

The benefit of this option is peace of mind and enhanced safety- no worrying about getting lost. You don't need to think about anything. Simply follow the itinerary and you are on your way! 

All Benefits of Leisure Plan

-Mapped/arranged/scheduled

-Internal travel accommodations

Exclusively for Resort Vacations!

-Resort choice

-Transportation

-Official links to make a direct booking  ​

One Flat Planning Fee

Since resorts offer plenty of all-inclusive food and activities, this choice includes just the basics of helping you to plan a relaxing vacation at one affordable flat fee.

*Special Deal: 14+ Days start at 525*

(Less Than Two Weeks)

*Prices do not include 8.88% tax and 3.3% + .60¢ processing fee

Pre-made guides

We have partnered with the new Thatch App to bring you highly-curated pre-made itinerary guides to your favorite cities!

With all the care of our custom itineraries, we're launching affordable guides to many cities around the world. You'll get a day-by-day schedule, arranged by neighborhood to make the most out of your trip.

Each guide contains:

-Multiple choices of places to stay for every taste and budget

-3 restaurant suggestions per day

--All the important details like opening hours, prices, etc.

-Helpful tips for getting around, culture, money, and other things to know. 

-A n interactive map in the app so you'll never get lost

Our first city launch is...

New York City, NY

Pre-Made Guide

Which city should we launch next? Let us know your suggestions in the contact box below!

DO I NEED TO BE A MILLIONAIRE?!

No way! We believe travel is for everyone! Give us your budget and we will create an itinerary that works for you! Personalized itineraries include all price information so you can see exactly what everything costs and how it adds up for you to stay within your budget. We can include plenty of free activities for you to see your chosen location without racking up the cost! And we have three product options so you can choose how much you want to spend on planning!

CAN'T I DO THIS MYSELF?

You sure can! Many people poll their friends on social media for recommendations that end up being too vague or uninteresting. Then there's the hours upon hours you might spend slogging through travel websites that list the same generic activities, and thousands of hotel listings that start to make your eyes cross! Then there's the hassle of making sure everything is actually feasible to get to within a day and how you're going to get there. We also  make sure to research and include local events and festivals that are happening during your trip dates, so no two vacations look the same!  We are here to create a vacation that you will love without the stress that comes with it! You get your time back and you get to enjoy!

WHY DO I NEED TO BOOK THINGS MYSELF?

The short answer is: TO SAVE YOU MONEY! The long answer is: Because we are not a travel agency, we provide consultation only. We do not provide packages that overcharge you for things you don't want or need. You pay only for the activities you choose to book, and we provide the direct link so that all you have to do is click, enter your information, and you're done! This keeps your financial information safer, and keeps you in control of your trip!

WHEN SHOULD I FIRST CONTACT YOU ABOUT MY TRIP?

Ideally, you should get in touch 4-12 weeks before your trip. Any sooner than that and we can't find the latest happenings to add to your itinerary, ie. festivals and culture days, because city event calendars haven't been published yet. Because we work one-on-one, we take great care to make the best itineraries for you with amazing detail, so itineraries generally take 2-4 weeks to create. If your vacation will be happening sooner than that (who doesn't love spontaneous trips?!), let us know so we can work together to get it to you faster.

WHAT IF I DON'T LIKE MY ITINERARY? CAN I GET A REFUND?

We believe communication is key! If the activities we chose are not to your liking, no problem! You'll get one free edit. Just let us know the activities you don't want, and what else you're looking for. We'll work one-on-one with you to find a great replacement! No refunds are given.

WHAT IF THERE ARE UNEXPECTED ITINERARY CHANGES OR CANCELLATIONS?

We are not responsible for any changes in schedule, whether one of your party becomes ill/injured or if any venue on the itinerary cancels or changes its hours. If a venue cancels after purchasing tickets, making reservations, etc, please get in contact with the venue itself for refunds. (We would be happy to help point you in the right direction.) Additionally, you may want to purchase trip insurance. We have partnered with World Nomads  to offer you travel insurance. Click here for more information.

SATISFIED CUSTOMERS

"Do yourself a favor and hire Kris to plan any and all of your trips! Kris planned a 3 month overseas trip for my husband and I. I cannot even put into words how amazing she did! She provided us with a detailed itinerary with EVERYTHING we needed. Our itinerary was divided up into each city we visited, with an itinerary for each day, transportation methods, recommendations, budget and more. Kris's PDF file itinerary was very user friendly and so easy to just click the link and book. Our trip would not have happened if she didn't help plan everything out. We truly cannot thank her enough for providing us such a wonderful itinerary! We enjoyed every part of our trip thanks to her! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND USING HER!"

Lorissa N Asia and African Safari

Travel insurance.

Click to get to know INSTAVENTURE Founder Kris!

READY TO BOOK?

Send an email for more info and to discuss your INSTAVENTURE! 

[email protected]

Thanks for submitting!

Alaska Pre Cruise Tours

Explore Alaska by land, then relax on board.

• Alaska Vacations
• Cruise Tours

Quick Links

• Alaska Cruise Tours
• Alaska Cruises
• Denali Essentials to Whittier
• National Parks Getaway
• Small Towns Discovery

Trip Finder

Many passengers are lucky enough to board a cruise through Alaska's Inside Passage already having had a few days' worth of Alaska adventures. Pre-cruise land packages give you that opportunity to experience a different side of Alaska, places like Denali National Park and Fairbanks , before embarking on a southbound cruise to Vancouver, BC .

The packages below are designed to pair perfectly with an Alaska cruise embarking from Seward or Whittier . They begin in either Anchorage or Fairbanks , two of Alaska's larger cities easily accessed by air from the continental U.S. On the final day of each package, convenient cruise transportation is included so that transitioning from land to ship is as easy as possible.

Considering a Royal Caribbean or Celebrity cruise out of Seward? Look for a package that has you arrive the day before your embarkation date with a final overnight in Seward. This will accommodate those cruise lines' early departure times and give you a chance to explore the many charms of this bayside town.

Packages range in length, going from four-day trips to Denali National Park up to a ten-day trip that also visits Talkeetna , Seward , and other small Alaska towns. Packages also have a range of transportation options. You could travel exclusively by the railroad on the Fairbanks to Seward Rail Adventure , or by a combo of bus and train on the Fairbanks to Whittier Alaska Sampler . For those visitors who'd enjoy the freedom of traveling via their own rental car , our pre-cruise self-drive package ending in Whittier is a perfect fit.

You can book these packages as they are or customize your own trip based on how much time you'd like to take and where you'd like to go using our Trip Finder tool. Since we offer numerous railroad and motorcoach cruise transfer options between Anchorage and both Whittier and Seward, nearly all of our packages that end in Anchorage can be modified to connect with cruises. If you're still shopping for your cruise, you can also use our Alaska Cruise Finder tool to search for cruises based on sailing month, route , and cruise line .

Alaska Small Towns Discovery - Tour 182

Enjoy both a detailed itinerary and the independence of traveling by rental car in this 10-day Alaska vacation package. The trip starts in Anchorage and ends in Whittier to easily pair with southbound cruises. Learn More >

Denali Essentials to Whittier - Tour 144

Before joining a cruise from Whittier, explore the boundless landscapes of Denali National Park on a five-day land package that includes flightseeing, sightseeing, and a splashy raft trip. Learn More >

Denali Express to Seward - Tour 142

Complement an Alaska cruise leaving from Seward with this four-day, pre-cruise land package to Denali National Park. All transportation, activities, and accommodations are included. Learn More >

Denali Express to Whittier - Tour 143

Complement a cruise embarking from Whittier with this land package to Denali National Park. The four-day trip includes all transportation, activities, and accommodations. Learn More >

Fairbanks to Seward Rail Adventure - Tour 162

Travel exclusively by Alaska Railroad on a pre-cruise land package that includes a full day of activities in each destination: Fairbanks, Anchorage, and Seward. The eight-day trip ends in Seward. Learn More >

Fairbanks to Whittier Alaska Sampler - Tour 163

See more of Alaska before your cruise out of Whittier with a six-day land package featuring activities, accommodations, and all transfers between Fairbanks, Denali National Park, and Talkeetna. Learn More >

National Parks Getaway - Tour 124

Travel by railroad and motorcoach between Anchorage, Denali National Park, and Kenai Fjords National Park on this six-day trip. Ending in Seward, this is an ideal pre-cruise land tour. Learn More >

Pre-Cruise Alaska Road Trip - Tour 135

A weeklong, pre-cruise, self-drive itinerary that starts in Anchorage and ends in Seward. Convenient one-way rental car included. Learn More >

Let us plan your trip for you

Roadtrippers Autopilot™ creates your itinerary based on what we’ve learned from over 38 million trips. You’re never more than a few clicks away from your next great adventure.

• Auto Travel

Let Autopilot take the wheel planning your next road trip, scenic drive, RV journey and everything in between. Then enjoy the ride while uncovering hidden gems along the way.

Get real-time traffic updates and access to wildfire smoke maps to stay informed and connected throughout your journey.

Collaborate

Share your itinerary with your copilots so they can help with the finishing touches.

Let Roadtrippers be your guide, navigating the twists and turns as you roam the open roads with confidence and ease.

Exclusive Access To Autopilot

Let us do the planning for you! Enter in a few key details and we’ll craft a custom tailored trip just for you.

Choose the right plan for you—and try it free for 7 days

Premium planning.

RV-Friendly Tools

Overnight RV Parking

Start free for 7 days

Then $35.99 (that's only $2.99/month), then $49.99 (that's only $4.17/month), then $59.99 (that's only $4.99/month).

† RV-Friendly routing features (including routing warnings for vehicle hazards and propane restrictions) are available in the U.S. only.

Free 7-day trial

Test drive the best features of Roadtrippers Premium for free! Eligible users will get exclusive access to all the tools needed to plan the perfect road trip.

Create a Roadtrippers account to start your 7-day free trial.

Already have a Roadtrippers account?

We need your email address

Before we can sign you up for Roadtrippers, we need your email address. Click the button below to go to your profile.

Plan your next adventure with a Roadtrippers Premium account

Due after 7-day free trial

Thank you for signing up for a Roadtrippers Subscription

Get started planning your next trip now!

Good news...you already have Roadtrippers!

Thanks for being one of our most dedicated users.

• Trip guides
• Trip Planner
• Sign up Log in Sign out
• Log in Sign out
• ROADTRIPPERS MEMBERSHIP
• RV RESOURCES

Plan your journey, find amazing places, and take fascinating detours with our app.

We couldn't find an existing Roadtrippers account using that service. Please try signing in with another option or create a new account with Roadpass.

We need your email address to send you trip itineraries and other updates.

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Tips

Pre-travel Checklist: What To Do Before Going On A Trip

Published: September 7, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Florrie Theriault

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Essentials
• Travel Organization
• Travel Planning
• travel tips

Introduction

Planning a trip can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. From deciding on a destination to booking flights and accommodations, there are numerous details to consider before embarking on your adventure. To ensure a smooth and stress-free journey, it’s essential to have a pre-travel checklist in place.

In this article, we will guide you through the essential steps to take before going on a trip. By following this comprehensive checklist, you can minimize last-minute hassles and maximize your enjoyment while traveling.

Whether you are a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first adventure, this pre-travel checklist will help you stay organized and prepared. From checking travel documentation to arranging necessary vaccinations, booking accommodations, and notifying your bank, each step plays a crucial role in ensuring a successful and worry-free trip.

By taking the time to go through this checklist and completing each item, you can focus on the excitement of your upcoming journey rather than worrying about unexpected issues that may arise.

So, grab a pen and paper, or open up a notes app on your phone, and let’s get started with this comprehensive pre-travel checklist!

Step 1: Check travel documentation

Before embarking on any trip, it’s crucial to ensure that you have all the necessary travel documentation in order. This includes a valid passport, identification cards, visas, and any other required permits.

Start by checking the expiration date of your passport. Many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. If your passport is nearing expiration, it’s a good idea to renew it well in advance to avoid any last-minute complications.

Next, determine whether you need a visa for your destination. Research the visa requirements for the countries you plan to visit and find out if you are eligible for visa-free entry or if you need to obtain a visa prior to your trip. Keep in mind that visa processing times may vary, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance.

Additionally, some countries may require specific permits or documentation for certain activities, such as trekking or volunteering. Make sure to research and arrange for any necessary permits or documents ahead of time to avoid any issues during your trip.

It’s also a good idea to make copies of all your travel documents, including your passport, visas, and identification cards. Keep one set of copies with you and leave another set with a trusted friend or family member. This will come in handy in case your original documents get lost or stolen during your travels.

By checking and organizing your travel documentation beforehand, you can avoid any unnecessary stress or delays when it’s time to embark on your trip.

Step 2: Review passport validity

One of the most important aspects of international travel is ensuring that your passport is valid for the duration of your trip. Most countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. Failure to meet this requirement can result in denied entry into your destination country.

Start by checking the expiration date of your passport. If it is set to expire within the next six months, it’s essential to renew it before your trip. Passport renewal can typically be done through your country’s passport office or embassy. Be sure to check the processing times and provide all the necessary documents and fees to avoid any delays.

If your passport is valid, but close to its expiration date, it’s still a good idea to consider renewing it before your trip. Unforeseen circumstances or changes in travel plans may require you to stay in a foreign country for an extended period, and having a valid passport will ensure your ability to travel freely and avoid any complications.

When reviewing your passport validity, also take note of the number of blank pages available. Some countries require a certain number of blank passport pages for visa stamps upon entry. It’s advisable to have a minimum of two to four blank pages available in your passport before traveling. If your passport is low on blank pages, consider renewing it to avoid any issues at immigration checkpoints.

Remember to double-check that the name on your passport matches the name on your flight bookings and other travel documents. Any discrepancies can cause confusion and potential problems during your journey.

Taking the time to review your passport’s validity and taking necessary steps for renewal or obtaining additional pages will ensure a hassle-free travel experience and avoid any last-minute complications at immigration checkpoints.

Step 3: Research visa requirements

When planning an international trip, it’s important to research and understand the visa requirements for your destination. Different countries have different visa policies, and it’s essential to ensure that you have the necessary visas before you travel.

Start by identifying the countries you plan to visit during your trip and determine if they require a visa for entry. Some countries have visa-free entry for certain nationalities, while others require visas for all visitors. Check the official embassy or consulate websites for accurate and up-to-date information regarding visa requirements.

Once you determine if you need a visa, find out the specific type of visa required. Some common visa categories include tourist visas, business visas, student visas, and work visas. Each visa type has different eligibility criteria, application processes, and fees. Make sure to understand the requirements and restrictions of the visa you need.

It’s crucial to note the processing time for visa applications. Some visas can be obtained upon arrival at the destination, while others need to be applied for in advance. Plan your travel dates accordingly, allowing sufficient time for visa processing. Keep in mind that processing times may vary, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance to avoid any last-minute complications.

Prepare all the necessary documentation for your visa application, including a valid passport, passport-sized photos, visa application forms, proof of travel itinerary (such as flight bookings and hotel reservations), and any additional supporting documents specific to the visa type. Ensure that you meet all the criteria and have all the required documents ready before submitting your application.

If you find the visa application process complex or time-consuming, consider utilizing the services of a visa processing agency or consulting with a travel agent who specializes in visa assistance. They can guide you through the process and help ensure that your application is complete and accurate.

By researching and applying for the necessary visas well in advance, you can avoid any last-minute visa issues and enjoy a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

Step 4: Arrange necessary vaccinations

Before traveling to certain destinations, it’s important to check if there are any recommended or required vaccinations to protect your health. Different countries have different health risks, and getting the appropriate vaccinations will help prevent the spread of diseases and ensure your well-being during your trip.

Start by researching the specific vaccinations recommended for your destination. Check the official websites of health organizations, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the World Health Organization (WHO), for the most up-to-date information on recommended vaccinations.

Some common vaccinations that may be advised for travelers include those for diseases like typhoid, yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, meningitis, tetanus, and influenza. The need for specific vaccinations may vary depending on factors such as your destination, planned activities, duration of stay, and your current immunization status.

Once you have identified the vaccinations needed, schedule a visit to a travel clinic or healthcare provider specializing in travel medicine. They will evaluate your specific requirements, discuss any additional medications or precautions, and administer the necessary vaccinations.

Keep in mind that some vaccinations may require multiple doses spread over several weeks, so it’s essential to start the vaccination process well in advance of your trip. Some vaccines also need time to take effect in your body, so it’s crucial to get them at least a few weeks before your departure.

Some countries may require proof of certain vaccinations as an entry requirement. Make sure to carry your vaccination records with you during your travels in case they are requested by immigration officials. Additionally, consider keeping a digital copy of your records on your phone or in a cloud storage service as a backup.

Remember that vaccinations not only protect you but also the communities you visit by preventing the spread of contagious diseases. By arranging the necessary vaccinations before your trip, you can travel with peace of mind and focus on experiencing the wonders of your destination without health concerns.

Step 5: Purchase travel insurance

Travel insurance is an essential aspect of trip planning as it provides financial protection and peace of mind in case of unforeseen events or emergencies during your journey. It’s important to purchase travel insurance that suits your needs and provides coverage for a range of situations.

Start by evaluating your specific requirements. Consider factors such as the duration of your trip, the activities you plan to engage in, the value of your belongings, and any pre-existing medical conditions. These factors will help determine the level of coverage you need.

Travel insurance typically provides coverage for trip cancellation or interruption, medical emergencies, lost or delayed luggage, emergency medical evacuation, and personal liability. Be sure to read the policy carefully and understand the coverage limits, exclusions, and claim procedures.

When purchasing travel insurance, consider the following:

• Choose a reputable insurance provider that is well-established and has a good track record of customer service.
• Ensure that the policy covers the specific destinations you plan to visit. Some policies may have restrictions or exclusions for certain regions or countries.
• Check the coverage limits to ensure they are adequate for your needs. For example, medical coverage should be sufficient to cover potential expenses in your destination country.
• Consider any additional coverage you may require, such as adventure activities, rental car insurance, or coverage for high-value items.

Compare quotes from different insurance providers to get the best value for your money. Look for policies that offer a good balance between coverage and cost, and check if any discounts are available for things like group travel or multi-trip insurance.

Once you have purchased travel insurance, keep a copy of the policy document and emergency contact numbers with you during your trip. Familiarize yourself with the claim procedures and requirements, and make sure to follow them in case you need to make a claim.

While no one wants to think about negative situations during their trip, having travel insurance provides valuable protection and reassurance. It allows you to focus on enjoying your journey, knowing that you are covered if anything unexpected happens.

Step 6: Notify bank and credit card companies

Before embarking on your trip, it’s important to notify your bank and credit card companies about your travel plans. This simple step will ensure the smooth use of your cards and help prevent any potential issues or fraud alerts while you are away.

Contact your bank and inform them of the dates and destinations of your trip. This will help them monitor your account for any suspicious activities and avoid unnecessary card locks or holds. Many banks provide online or mobile banking options that allow you to set travel notifications easily.

Informing your credit card companies is equally important. Provide them with the same information and ensure that your cards will be accepted in the countries you plan to visit. Some credit card companies may have partnerships or restrictions with certain countries or merchants.

Take note of the customer service numbers of your bank and credit card companies, and keep them handy in case you need to report a lost or stolen card while traveling. It’s also advisable to carry copies of important phone numbers in case you don’t have access to your phone or internet.

While you’re notifying your financial institutions, it’s a good idea to inquire about any foreign transaction fees that may apply to your cards. Some cards offer additional benefits for travelers, such as no foreign transaction fees or travel rewards. Take advantage of these features to save money and earn rewards during your trip.

Inquire about the availability of ATMs in your destination country and any associated fees for cash withdrawals. This will help you plan your budget and ensure you have access to local currency when needed.

Be cautious while using ATMs abroad and ensure that you choose reliable and secure machines. Avoid using ATMs in isolated or poorly lit areas, and always cover the keypad when entering your PIN to protect against skimming devices.

By notifying your bank and credit card companies in advance, you can avoid any disruptions to your finances and ensure a hassle-free experience with your cards while traveling. It’s always better to be proactive and prepared when it comes to managing your financial matters during your trip.

Step 7: Secure necessary currency

When traveling to a foreign country, it’s essential to have the necessary currency on hand to cover your expenses. While many places accept credit cards or offer currency exchange services, it’s always a good idea to have some local currency available for immediate use.

Research the currency used in your destination country and determine the current exchange rate. Familiarize yourself with the denominations and any common practices for tipping or bargaining. This will help you avoid confusion and make transactions smoother once you arrive.

There are several ways to secure the necessary currency:

• Exchange currency at your local bank or authorized currency exchange provider before your trip. This allows you to have some local currency on hand when you arrive.
• Use ATMs in your destination country to withdraw local currency. This is often a convenient option, although it’s important to be mindful of any associated fees or daily withdrawal limits.
• Consider obtaining a prepaid travel card, which allows you to load funds in the local currency and use it like a debit or credit card while traveling. This option provides added security and convenience.

When exchanging or withdrawing money, be cautious of the location and reputation of the exchange service provider or ATM. Choose reputable establishments or ATMs in well-populated areas to minimize the risk of scams or counterfeit currency.

It’s a good idea to carry a mix of payment methods, including cash and credit cards, to provide flexibility depending on the situation. Keep your cash securely stored in a travel wallet or money belt, and avoid displaying large amounts of cash in public.

While it’s important to have local currency on hand, it’s advisable not to carry excessive amounts. Only exchange or withdraw what you anticipate needing for immediate expenses and rely on other payment methods for larger purchases or emergencies.

Remember to inform your bank or credit card company about your travel plans to avoid any potential card blocks or fraud alerts when using your cards abroad.

By securing the necessary currency before your trip and being mindful of safe and convenient exchange options, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free financial experience during your travels.

Step 8: Make accommodation reservations

Choosing the right accommodations for your trip is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Making advance reservations not only ensures that you secure a place to stay but also gives you peace of mind knowing that your accommodation needs are taken care of.

Start by determining your preferences and requirements for accommodations. Consider factors such as location, budget, amenities, and the type of accommodation you prefer, whether it’s a hotel, hostel, vacation rental, or bed and breakfast.

Research online travel websites, hotel booking platforms, or review websites to get an idea of the available options and customer feedback. Take note of the prices, ratings, and reviews for each property you consider.

Check the availability of accommodations during your intended travel dates. It’s important to book early, especially during peak travel seasons or popular events, as popular accommodations tend to fill up quickly.

Read the terms and conditions of each property carefully before making a reservation. Pay attention to the cancellation policy, payment requirements, and any additional fees or taxes that may apply. It’s also helpful to understand the check-in and check-out times to plan your travel accordingly.

If you have specific preferences or requirements, such as accessibility features or dietary restrictions, contact the property directly to ensure they can accommodate your needs. This personal communication can also provide you with the opportunity to ask any specific questions or request special arrangements.

Consider booking accommodations that offer flexibility or free cancellation options, especially if your travel plans are subject to change. This provides you with the flexibility to modify or cancel your reservation without any significant financial implications.

Once you have made your accommodation reservations, keep a record of the booking confirmation details, including the property name, address, contact information, and any reservation codes. It’s advisable to carry a printed or digital copy of these details during your trip for easy reference.

By making accommodation reservations in advance, you can ensure a smooth check-in process and have a comfortable place to stay that meets your needs and expectations throughout your trip.

Step 9: Plan transportation arrangements

Planning transportation arrangements is a crucial step in ensuring a smooth and convenient trip. Whether you are traveling within a city or between different destinations, having a solid transportation plan in place will help you navigate efficiently and make the most of your time.

Determine the best modes of transportation for your specific needs. Consider factors such as distance, budget, convenience, and local transportation options available at your destination.

If you are planning to fly, compare flight options and book your tickets well in advance to secure the best fares. Take note of baggage restrictions and any additional fees that may apply to ensure a hassle-free check-in experience.

For ground transportation, research the local public transportation system, such as buses, trains, or subway networks. Familiarize yourself with the schedules, routes, and fare payment methods. Public transportation can be a cost-effective and efficient way to get around, especially in urban areas.

Consider renting a car if you prefer the flexibility and convenience of driving yourself. Research reputable car rental companies, compare rental rates, and ensure you have the necessary driving license and insurance coverage.

If you are planning to use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, check if they are available in your destination and familiarize yourself with their app and payment methods.

For longer distances or inter-city travel, consider booking train or bus tickets in advance. This will not only ensure that you secure your preferred departure time but may also offer discounted fares.

If you intend to explore more rural areas or scenic routes, consider guided tours, organized day trips, or hiring a local driver or guide. They can provide valuable insights, take you to hidden gems, and ensure a stress-free experience.

It’s important to factor in travel time and consider any potential delays or traffic congestion when planning your transportation. Allow sufficient buffer time, especially for important events or activities, to avoid rushing or missing out on scheduled plans.

Having a transportation plan in place will save you time, minimize stress, and allow you to focus on enjoying your destination without worrying about logistics. It’s always a good idea to research and plan ahead to make the most of your travel experience.

Step 10: Pack essentials and check baggage allowance

When it comes to packing for your trip, it’s important to strike a balance between bringing essentials and avoiding overpacking. By packing strategically and efficiently, you can ensure a hassle-free travel experience and avoid any issues with baggage allowance.

Start by making a comprehensive list of essential items you’ll need during your trip. Consider the weather, activities planned, and cultural norms of your destination. This will help you pack clothing, footwear, and accessories that are suitable for the trip.

Check the baggage allowance and restrictions of your airline or transportation provider. Different airlines have varying weight and size restrictions, so it’s important to adhere to their guidelines to avoid any additional fees or complications.

Organize your belongings in a systematic manner to optimize space and facilitate easy access when needed. Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and minimize wrinkles. Use packing cubes or compression bags to further maximize space and keep items organized.

Consider the essentials that you should always carry with you in your carry-on bag. This includes important travel documents, medications, electronics, toiletries, and a change of clothes. Having these items easily accessible will ensure that you have the essentials in case of any unforeseen events, such as delayed or lost luggage.

Before packing, familiarize yourself with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines for carry-on and checked baggage. Be aware of prohibited items and restrictions on liquids, gels, and electronics. This will help you pack efficiently and avoid any issues during security screenings.

Remember to pack necessary chargers, adapters, and power banks for your electronic devices to ensure you stay connected during your trip. It’s also a good idea to carry a universal travel adapter if you are traveling to a country with different electrical outlets.

Consider the weight distribution of your luggage and pack heavier items closer to the wheels to maintain balance and stability. This will make it easier to maneuver your luggage and minimize strain on your body.

Lastly, leave some space in your luggage for any souvenirs or items you may acquire during your trip. Packing a foldable daypack or an extra collapsible bag can also come in handy for carrying additional items on your return journey.

By packing essentials and adhering to baggage allowance guidelines, you can travel comfortably and efficiently. Remember to review and modify your packing list based on the specific requirements of your trip and destination.

Step 11: Create a travel itinerary

Creating a travel itinerary is a key step in staying organized and making the most of your trip. It helps you plan your days, allocate time for different activities, and ensure you don’t miss out on any must-see attractions or experiences.

Start by researching your destination and identifying the top attractions, landmarks, and activities that you want to explore. Consider your interests, budget, and the duration of your trip to prioritize and select the experiences that align with your preferences.

Once you have a list of attractions and activities, plot them on a calendar or itinerary template. Consider factors such as opening hours, distance between locations, and any pre-booked tickets or reservations.

Allocate sufficient time for each activity, allowing for rest periods and leisurely exploration. Avoid overloading your itinerary with too many activities, as it can lead to unnecessary stress and exhaustion. Leave room for flexibility and spontaneous discoveries.

Research transportation options and estimated travel times between attractions. This will help you plan the most efficient routes and understand the time it takes to move from one place to another.

Consider the local culture, customs, and traditions when planning your itinerary. Research local festivals, markets, or events happening during your visit and try to incorporate them into your schedule for a more immersive experience.

Include time for relaxation and downtime in your itinerary. Traveling can be overwhelming, and allowing yourself moments to unwind and recharge will enhance your overall enjoyment of the trip.

It’s also important to factor in meal times and dining experiences in your itinerary. Research local cuisine and restaurants, and make reservations if needed, especially for popular or highly recommended establishments.

Share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member at home. This ensures someone knows your general whereabouts and can be reached in case of emergencies.

Remember that your travel itinerary should serve as a guide and not a rigid schedule. Be open to unexpected opportunities or recommendations from locals that may enhance your travel experience.

By creating a well-planned travel itinerary, you can make the most of your trip, optimize your time, and ensure a balanced and enjoyable travel experience.

Step 12: Set up automatic bill payments

Before heading off on your trip, it is important to ensure that your regular bills are taken care of while you are away. One way to manage this is by setting up automatic bill payments, which can save you time, hassle, and potential late fees.

Start by making a list of your recurring bills, such as rent or mortgage payments, utility bills, credit card payments, and any other monthly obligations. Check the due dates for each bill and determine whether they can be automated.

Contact your service providers or financial institution to set up automatic bill payments. Many banks offer online bill payment services, allowing you to schedule payments in advance. Alternatively, you can authorize automatic payments directly with service providers using your credit card or bank account.

Verify that you have sufficient funds in your account to cover these automatic payments. It is also advisable to keep track of your accounts and review statements regularly to ensure that payments are processed accurately and on time.

If automatic bill payment is not feasible for certain bills, consider making arrangements with a trusted friend or family member to handle your bills while you are away. Provide them with clear instructions and any necessary information to avoid any missed payments or potential issues.

It is also a good idea to notify your bank or credit card company about your travel plans to avoid any unexpected holds or blocks on your accounts due to unusual spending patterns.

Automating bill payments while you are away not only ensures that your financial responsibilities are met but also provides peace of mind and allows you to fully enjoy your trip without the stress of managing bills remotely.

Step 13: Arrange pet care or house sitting

If you have pets or a home that requires ongoing care while you’re away, it’s important to make arrangements in advance to ensure their well-being and the security of your property.

If you have pets, consider the options available for their care. Some choices may include:

• Boarding your pet at a reputable kennel or pet care facility. Research and visit the facility beforehand to ensure it meets your standards and that your pet will receive proper care and attention.
• Arranging for a pet sitter to come to your home. This option provides your pet with the comfort of familiar surroundings. Hire a professional pet sitter or ask a trusted friend or family member to take care of your pet’s needs.
• Asking a responsible friend or family member if they can temporarily take in your pet while you’re away. Ensure that they are comfortable and capable of providing the necessary care and attention.

Whichever option you choose, provide clear instructions to the caregiver about your pet’s feeding schedule, exercise routine, medications, and any other specific needs they may have. Leave emergency contact numbers and the contact details of your veterinarian as well.

If you own a home, consider arranging for house sitting services to ensure the security of your property. A reliable house sitter can help with tasks such as collecting mail, watering plants, and ensuring the home appears occupied to deter potential burglars.

If house sitting is not an option, ask a trusted neighbor or friend to keep an eye on your property. Let them know your travel dates and provide them with a spare key, so they can periodically check the house and report any suspicious activities.

Before leaving, make arrangements to stop or redirect any regular deliveries, such as newspapers or packages, to avoid signaling that the house is unoccupied.

Remember to show your appreciation to those who assist with pet care or house sitting by offering a small token of gratitude or extending the same favor when they need it in the future.

By making arrangements for pet care or house sitting, you can have peace of mind knowing that your beloved pets are well taken care of and your home is secure while you enjoy your travels.

Step 14: Organize important contact information

Organizing important contact information is an essential step to ensure you have easy access to key contacts in case of emergencies or unexpected situations during your trip. Having this information readily available will help you navigate any challenges that may arise.

Create a list of important contacts that you may need to reach out to during your trip. Include the following:

• Emergency contacts: Write down the contact information of your local embassy or consulate in the destination country. This will be crucial in case of lost or stolen passports, medical emergencies, or other urgent situations.
• Accommodation contacts: Keep a record of the contact details for your booked accommodations, including phone numbers, email addresses, and physical addresses. This will make it easy to communicate with your hosts or reach out for assistance if needed.
• Transportation contacts: If you have booked flights, trains, or other forms of transportation, keep the contact information for these providers. This will allow you to quickly contact them in case of delays, cancellations, or other travel disruptions.
• Travel insurance provider: Note the contact details for your travel insurance provider, including their customer service number and any emergency assistance line. This information will be invaluable if you need to file a claim or seek help in case of medical emergencies or travel disruptions.
• Bank and credit card contacts: Keep a record of the contact information for your bank and credit card companies. This includes their customer service number and any dedicated international helpline. Reporting lost or stolen cards, checking on account activity, or resolving any financial issues will be easier with this information.
• Personal contacts: If you’re traveling with others or meeting up with friends or family at your destination, make sure you have their contact information. It’s also a good idea to share your itinerary with them so they know where you’ll be and how to reach you in case of an emergency.

Organize this information in a format that is easily accessible to you, such as a digital document, a dedicated section in your travel planner, or even a note on your phone. Consider carrying a printed copy or having a backup saved in a secure cloud storage service.

By organizing important contact information, you can quickly reach out for assistance or connect with the necessary resources if a situation arises during your trip, allowing you to navigate any challenges with ease.

Step 15: Confirm bookings and reservations

As your trip approaches, it’s essential to take the time to confirm all your bookings and reservations to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. This step will help you avoid any potential misunderstandings or complications that could arise if there are any discrepancies or changes to your plans.

Start by going through your itinerary and cross-referencing each activity or accommodation with your confirmations. Ensure that the dates, times, and details of each booking match your intended travel plans.

Contact your airline or transportation provider to confirm your flight or transit details. Check for any schedule changes, departure gates, or updated travel advisories. Make sure you have the necessary documentation, such as e-tickets or boarding passes, and follow any specific instructions provided by the airline.

Reach out to your accommodations to reconfirm your reservations. Verify the check-in and check-out times, any special requests you may have made, and the payment details. It’s also a good idea to inquire about their cancellation policy in case any unexpected changes to your plans arise.

If you have booked any tours, activities, or excursions in advance, contact the respective providers to confirm the details. Ensure that you have all the necessary information, such as meeting points and any specific requirements or restrictions for the activity.

Double-check any car rental reservations and ensure you have all the necessary documentation, such as your driver’s license and reservation details. Confirm the pickup and drop-off locations, as well as any additional fees or fuel policies.

Revisit your travel insurance policy and understand the coverage provided. Confirm the contact information for the insurance provider and familiarize yourself with the claim procedures in case of any emergencies or unexpected incidents.

Review any restaurant reservations you may have made and confirm the date, time, and number of guests. If there are any changes or cancellations, make sure to inform the restaurant in advance to avoid any penalties.

By taking the time to confirm your bookings and reservations, you can address any potential issues or misunderstandings before you embark on your trip. This will help ensure that your travel plans run smoothly, leaving you free to enjoy your journey with peace of mind.

Congratulations! You have reached the end of your pre-travel checklist. By following these essential steps, you have set yourself up for a successful, organized, and stress-free trip.

From checking travel documentation and reviewing passport validity to researching visa requirements and arranging necessary vaccinations, each step played a crucial role in ensuring your smooth journey.

By purchasing travel insurance and notifying your bank and credit card companies, you have taken important steps to protect your finances and have peace of mind during your travels.

Securing necessary currency, making accommodation reservations, planning transportation arrangements, and creating a detailed travel itinerary have equipped you with the tools to navigate smoothly through your destination and make the most of your time.

By setting up automatic bill payments, arranging pet care or house sitting, organizing important contact information, and confirming all your bookings and reservations, you have taken care of the crucial details that help ensure a worry-free trip.

Remember, while planning is important, be open to unexpected adventures and embrace the spontaneity that comes with travel. Use this checklist as a guide and adapt it to suit your specific needs and preferences.

As you embark on your journey, stay curious, open-minded, and respectful of the cultures and communities you encounter. Engage with the locals, savor new flavors, and soak in the beauty of your surroundings.

Whether you are exploring a new city, relaxing on a tropical beach, or immersing yourself in a different culture, this pre-travel checklist has set the foundation for an unforgettable experience.

Now, go forth with confidence, explore the world, and create lasting memories on your incredible adventure!

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Alaska Overland Excursions

An Alaska cruise is one of the most popular ways to visit this spectacular state. For many, it's a once-in-a-lifetime dream vacation that provides access to otherwise difficult-to-reach places.

Make the most of your time by pairing your Alaska cruise with a land-based excursion for the complete Alaska experience. Land tours allow you to see Alaska's thriving cities and cultural centers, where Alaskans live, work, and play.

We're here to help you arrange your pre-cruise or post-cruise land tour.

Why Choose Pursuit?  

Explore Alaska Vacations

Alaska is calling...  #explorealaska.

Connect with @PursuitAlaska on    

Our local experts are here to answer any of your questions and help plan an unforgettable Alaska adventure.

1.800.808.8068   |  CONTACT US

Stay connected

Ultimate Around the World Itinerary | 1 Year Around the World

By: Author Charles

Posted on August 25, 2023

In March of 2019, I quit my job, packed a couple of carry-on bags, and took a one-way flight to Auckland, New Zealand to begin my around the world itinerary.

Over the course of the next 375 days, I traveled to 20 countries and countless cities in 6 continents. I put together this post to walk you through the exact route, and how it all came together the way it did.

Whether, you are just interested in reading along, or you would like to put together an around the world itinerary for yourself, I hope this can inspire you!

*  Affiliate Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you make a purchase through the links provided, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting the work I put into TripTins!

1) Around the World Itinerary Overview

I knew from early on in my career that travel was a very important aspect of my life. I didn’t know at the time though, that I would have it in me to quit my safe corporate job of 6 years and travel for an extended period of time.

Instead of taking those few 10-day vacations and always looking forward to just taking that next trip, I thought a full year of solo travel would be the right move for me. I could visit places that would have taken years for me to get to, and challenge myself consistently along the way.

So, on March 13 2019, I hopped on a flight from JFK to LAX and then onwards to Auckland, New Zealand (essentially as far as one can get!). Over the course of the next 12 months, I got to experience some of the best travel moments of my life.

Whether it was meeting locals, exploring cities, hiking high into the mountains, trying new foods, engraining myself in new cultures, or hanging out with like-minded travelers. The one year of travel ended up being the best decision of my life, and one of the reasons, this site came to be .

Around the World Stats Days: 375  Countries: 20 Cities: ~100

2) Travel Considerations

As I planned the trip, there were a few “main” aspects that I was sure to plan the trip around. These included – weather, local holidays for & peak seasons, logistics, among a few other considerations.

Probably the most important aspect of the around the world itinerary, was making sure I was visiting countries during the best time of year from a weather standpoint .

I did not want to go through all of this, just to visit countries when it was rainy season or when I couldn’t take part of certain activities.

For example, I made sure to visit Nepal during November when the weather was at its clearest (but quite cold) and there was little risk of rain and clouds ruining the trekking views. I made my way to the Philippines at the tail end of the dry season and Costa Rica at the beginning of their dry season.

At the end of the day, it was all about being able to fully enjoy my time in each place on a day to day basis and not have constant days where the weather wouldn’t allow me to do anything.

With that said, the weather is unpredictable and you never know what it can bring (no matter how much you plan). There were certainly days I was completely rained out of doing anything, and times where I had to move things around last minute to circumvent the weather.

But by initially planning the trip to avoid poorer weather conditions, I feel as I was really able to get the most out of the journey.

Local Holidays & Seasons

Another thing that I considered is to avoid traveling to countries during the local’s national holidays . While dealing with tourists is one thing, dealing with a whole country traveling at the same time is another.

This isn’t across every country out there of course, but for some countries during these holiday times, many locals decide to travel for themselves.

This results in less availability for hotels and more expensive prices altogether . A couple that come to mind are Golden Week in Japan and Holy Week in the Philippines. 

I will caveat that with saying, sometimes it can be a great experience to take part of certain local celebrations if that is what is of interest to you.

In addition to holidays, I also tried to avoid peak season when most tourists are traveling to a certain destination .

Now, this is certainly not avoidable if traveling for a year, but it can help to steer clear of some places during those peak seasons.

Instead, I tried to visit places during shoulder seasons, as the weather is great but just less people are traveling to these places. At the end of the day it is just picking and choosing what works best.

The last main consideration when planning the trip was the logistics side of things. I just wanted to be sure that there was an easy way to get between city A and city B .

Whether that be a plane, boat, train or bus, I just didn’t want to put myself in the position where I would have to go drastically out of my way to continue on with the next city or country.

To the best of my abilities, I attempted to book direct flights when possible . I remember in the Philippines for example, there were not direct flights between certain islands or they were not operating every day of the week. I had to put the itinerary together so I was not wasting full days just to get between two islands. 

If I was renting a car, and I was taking a one way route through a country (such as Austria), I had to be certain that I could pick up and drop off the car in two separate locations without a hefty fee. 

With that said though, there were certainly times where I had to compromise with logistics. If I really wanted to travel somewhere but it would take days of traveling, I had to be fine with that. It all becomes a balance between everything .

Other Considerations

Also considered in the travel planning was the flexibility and having time to just unwind without anything planned. While I put together a list of countries and things I wanted to do in each country, I never had it written out to a tee.

I consistently moved things around as I went and sometimes did not even have a set date to leave a country I was in. Having that flexibility helped big time when things didn’t go 100% according to plan .

I also wanted to be sure that I had time to just rest and recover . For the majority of the trip I was out and about from morning until night. All of that traveling can take a toll on the body.

So, you will see times in the itinerary where I may have stayed longer than one may expect just to have time to do nothing and all.

When I combined the weather, holidays, and logistics, an itinerary began to form that I continuously worked on for months leading up to the trip.

→ Learn more: check out the planning a trip around the world and around the world cost guides for many more considerations when putting together an itinerary, as well as my around the world packing list

With that said though, there were some things that I had to plan around, making this around the world trip a bit more difficult to plan out than initially expected. See the next section for more on that…

3) What I Planned Around

Now, the around the world itinerary didn’t come without any hitches. There were a few things that came up which altered my initial travel planning.

Timing is never perfect to take a full year off from your friends and family. And there were certain events that I just had to come back for. Due to this, you will see a bit of interesting travel plans that the trip goes through.

» I spent October of 2019 back in the US as I had weddings to attend of close friends. Due to this I ended up staying the month back in the US before heading out again (and did get to visit NYC, Philadelphia and Chicago during my time back). Then again in December 2019, I came back again, but this time just for a quick weekend.

» On top of that, my trip was originally going to be closer to 15 months of travel. As we all know though, Covid started to ramp up in March of 2020. The end of my trip was a bit hectic trying to figure out where to go and what to do. But on March 20, 2020 I ended up taking one of the final flights out of South Africa before the world went into lockdown.

4) Around the World Itinerary Details

From start to finish the trip lasted 375 days with 329 days outside of the country. Over the course of those 375 days I visited 6 continents, 20 countries, and upwards of 100 cities. I ended up splitting out my trip in five phases:

Phase 1 : NZ/AU/Asia Phase 2 : Middle East / Europe Phase 3* : Nepal Phase 4 : Central and South America Phase 5 : Asia/Africa -> cut short

→ *I returned home before/after I traveled to Nepal

Below is the country by country route I took along with the number of days (including days to travel to them). Throughout the remainder of the post I will go into detail about where I decided to travel to in each country.

Country #1: New Zealand (29 days) Country #2: Japan (12 days) Country #3: South Korea (11 days) Country #4: Philippines (20 days) Country #5: Indonesia (30 days) Country #6: Australia (21 days) Country #7: Singapore (4 days) Country #8: Israel (17 days) Country #9: Jordan (4 days) Country #10: Austria (10 days) Country #11: Germany (6 days) Country #12: Slovenia (11 days) Country #13: Croatia (15 days) Country #14: Montenegro (10 days) Country #15: Nepal (26 days) Country #16: Belize (17 days) Country #17: Costa Rica (24 days) Country #18: Argentina (21 days) Country #19: Chile (11 days) Country #20: Sri Lanka (24 days)

Bonus : South Africa for 5 days until I had to take an emergency flight back home on my final day

Some of my travel plans would not necessarily look efficient on paper (Chile to Sri Lanka for example). However, given I did need to make some stops back in the US as I spoke about earlier, and with Covid ending the trip early, the trip doesn’t always make perfect sense without knowing the details.

You can see that I did spend quite a bit of time in many of these countries (24 days in Costa Rica). Like I said, when planning the trip, I did not want to rush myself in a country.

I wanted to truly enjoy all different aspects of where I was . I also wanted to be sure to have enough “rest” days, to just spend time to regroup and reset before continuing on.

You may find many itineraries out there that visit double the amount of countries in the same time period. But at the end of the day, each person has their own travel style and what they want to accomplish on a trip like this.

For me, it was seeing the world at my pace and really engraining myself in each country I visited.

5) Around the World Itinerary Map

Below is a map of each and every place I visited all along the year long journey. You not only can see the cities I visited, but you can also see nearly every attraction I got to visit along the way.

Feel free to zoom in for more details!

6) 1 Year Around the World Itinerary

With that all said, below is a breakdown of each country along with the main cities/attractions I got to enjoy along the way.

New Zealand (March 13 – April 10)

I started off the around the world itinerary by taking a one-way flight to Auckland, New Zealand and from there got to explore both the North Island and South Island of the country.

After spending a night in Auckland, I grabbed a rental car, and then began the journey from north to south. Along the way I was able to visit the following places:

• Auckland • Waitakere Ranges • Rotorua • Taupo • Tongariro Alpine Crossing • Wellington • Abel Tasman National Park • Punakaiki* • Wanaka • Te Anau • Queenstown • Mount Cook • Pukaki • Christchurch

* As I was making my way down the western coast of the South Island, a major storm caused mudslides and a collapsed bridge. I ended up missing out on Franz Josef and had to spend a day driving around the island to Wanaka. Always good to have the flexibility to change things on the fly!

Japan (April 11 – April 22)

From Christchurch, I hopped on a flight to Tokyo via Brisbane. After a full day of travel, I arrived to Tokyo, where started my 12 days through Japan .

Since this was my second time in Japan, I did not spend as long as I might have if it was my first time. While I certainly went to some of the same places from my initial trip, I did not go back to places like Kobe, Hiroshima , Miyajima and Osaka.

However, I did get to visit a bunch of new places as well, and took the following journey through Japan:

• Tokyo • Kamakura • Hakone • Takayama • Shirakawago • Kanazawa • Kyoto • Nara

South Korea (April 23 – May 3)

It was then off to South Korea as I flew directly from Osaka to Jeju Island. Over the course of the next 10 days or so, I visited three beautiful places in the country:

• Jeju Island (+ Mount Hallasan hike !) • Gyeongju • Seoul

Philippines (May 4 – May 23)

After a successful time around South Korea, it was then onto the Philippines. It was all about the beaches, water, and island life during this portion of the trip.

As the rainy season starts in June, I got there just in time to fully enjoy the experience. Besides a few nighttime rain showers, it was all clear to enjoy some time in the sun. I ended up spending time in 4 different islands for around 4-5 days each.

Logistics were important here as it can get quite tricky to travel around the country. With a combinations of boats and direct flights, I ended up visiting these places:

• Coron • El Nido • Bohol • Siargao

Indonesia (May 24 – June 22)

You are only allowed to visit Indonesia for 30 days without getting a longer term visa, so that is exactly what I decided to do. I spent a full month exploring the country visiting many places along the way .

While 30 days does sound like a long time, Indonesia is a massive country. I can honestly spend a year traveling around the country and still have things to do. But during my month there I started on the island of Java and then got to visit:

• Yogyakarta • Lumajang / East Java Waterfalls • Cemoro Lawang / Mount Bromo • Banyuwangi / Ijen Crater • Munduk • Ubud • Nusa Penida • Gili Trawangan • Mount Rinjani • Komodo National Park

From Komodo, it was then a quick flight back to Bali , where I headed off to Australia for the next portion of my trip.

Australia (June 23 – July 12)

Australia was one country, where it was a bit tougher to pick a time of year that worked weather wise for various cities around the country. I could have gone right after New Zealand but found some of the logistics a bit too difficult to manage.

Either way though, while I did not have the beach weather for Sydney, all else went great in the cities further up north. Below were the places I traveled to during my few weeks in Australia :

• Sydney • Blue Mountains • Whitsundays • Cairns / Great Barrier Reef • Port Douglas • Daintree Rainforest • Uluru / Kata Tjuta • Kings Canyon • Alice Springs / West MacDonnell Ranges

Singapore (July 13 – July 16)

From Alice Springs I took a flight over to Perth for a quick layover before heading off to Singapore. I decided to split Singapore into two parts.

The first couple days I would spend sightseeing all around the city. For the second two days, I opted for a bit of relaxing and treated myself to two nights at the Marina Bay Sands hotel.

Overall, the four days in Singapore ended up great and got me ready for the next leg of my trip as I traveled all the way to Israel.

Israel & Jordan (July 17 – August 2)

When visiting Israel, I knew that I wanted to spend a few days in Jordan visiting a couple of the top sites.

So, I ended up traveling around Israel for 10 days, and then ended up in Eilat. From Eilat, I traveled into Jordan for 4 days and then re-entered Israel, where I spent another week.

While I could have figured out the logistics to be a bit more favorable, the three weeks between Israel and Jordan ended up something like this:

• Jerusalem • Ein Gedi / Masada • Dead Sea • Mitzpe Ramon • Eilat • Petra • Wadi Rum • Haifa* • Tel Aviv

* After visiting Jordan, I crossed back into Eilat, rented a car and drove all the way north to Haifa. I spent a few days exploring the northern coast and ended the trip in Tel Aviv for a few days of beach time.

Austria & Germany (August 8 – August 23)

After taking a flight from Tel Aviv to Vienna, I spent the next 2+ weeks driving my way through Austria and the Bavaria region of Germany. I spent time in cities and out in the mountains, while visiting several places along the way:

• Vienna • Hallstatt • Berchtesgaden • Garmisch Partenkirchen • Mayrhofen

This is also a time where the weather did not always go according to plan. It was nice to have some extra days here in order to wait out the couple days of poor weather and then get up into the mountains.

Slovenia (August 24 – September 3)

From Mayrhofen, I took the quick drive to Innsbruck, dropped off my rental car and then took a train over to Ljubljana. I spent the next 10+ days driving around Slovenia and enjoying all different aspects of the country including:

• Ljubljana • Lake Bled • Bohinj • Bovec • Piran

Croatia (September 4 – September 18)

A quick train from Ljubljana to Zagreb and it was then time to explore Croatia for two weeks . I opted against renting a car here and just made my way around the country using busses and ferries. Along the way I got to visit:

• Zagreb • Plitvice National Park • Zadar • Krka National Park • Split • Hvar • Korcula • Mljet • Dubrovnik

Montenegro (September 19 – September 28)

Montenegro was the last country on the first portion of my trip around the world . I took a bus from Dubrovnik to Kotor and then rented a car for the next 10 days. During those days I made my way to a few different places:

• Kotor • Durmitor National Park • Lake Skadar • Sveti Stefan

My last night of the 200 th day of my trip was spent in the small coastal town of Sveti Stefan, where I got to enjoy one last sunset before making my way back to the US for the next month.

After heading to a couple of weddings and traveling to cities like NYC, Philadelphia and Chicago, I then made the round trip journey to Nepal. Here is where I took part of the Three Passes Trek + Everest Base Camp.

Nepal (November 11 – December 6)

Visiting the Himalayas had been a life dream of mine, and during this around the world trip, I finally got to experience some time there. I decided to go for the Three Passes Trek , which is essentially a longer version of the standard Everest Base Camp trek .

In addition to EBC, I got to head over the Kongma La , Cho La , and Renjo La passes, visit the Gokyo Lakes , and trek up peaks like Chukhung Ri and Gokyo Ri .

After three weeks of trekking, I had a few days of relaxing in Kathmandu before heading back for a quick weekend in NYC .

Belize (December 10 – 27)

It was then time to explore some of Central and South America, as I headed from New York down to Belize. During my time in Belize I spent several days scuba diving, visiting the inland of the country, and finishing up at the beach .

Technically I actually went to another country during the trip as I also did make the quick one night journey to Tikal in Guatemala. Overall, the trip to Belize (and Guatemala) looked like this:

• Ambergris Caye • Caye Caulker • San Ignacio • Tikal • Cockscomb Basin • Placencia

Costa Rica (December 28 – January 19)

It was then off to Costa Rica , where I got to spend 3+ weeks traveling to all different parts of the country.

It was a great mixture between volcanoes, rainforests, wildlife, hiking, and beaches as I visited the following places:

• Poas / La Paz Waterfall Gardens • La Fortuna / Arenal • Monteverde • Manuel Antonio • Corcovado National Park • Uvita • Cerro Chirripo • San Jose*

*The plan was to visit the Caribbean coast for the final few days of the trip around Puerto Viejo. However, the weather had different plans. So, I decided to just spend a few days in San Jose, rest and recover there before heading off to Patagonia for the next month of hiking.

Argentina (January 20 – February 9)

While I did spend a day in Buenos Aires, the main aspect of this portion of the trip was to hike my way through Patagonia . While, I did visit during what is considered one of the best times of year to go from a weather perspective, I still knew the risk of the Patagonian weather.

One day can be nice and sunny, while the next day could be a complete snowstorm (yes even in their summer months!). I mean, I even had a day when it was sunny and snowing at the same time .

Knowing the unpredictability of the weather, I decided to always give myself extra days in each one of the places I visited . This way if the weather did not cooperate for a day or two, I still would be able to enjoy my time there.

And for the most part, that is exactly what happened. Half the time I was in El Chalten, the weather made hiking impossible. A couple days in El Calafate by the Perito Merino Glacier were completely clouded over. But since I planned to have more days than necessary, it all worked out pretty well in the end as I visited these regions:

• Ushuaia • El Calafate • El Chalten • Huemul Circuit

Chile (February 10 – February 20)

From El Chalten, I bussed back to El Calafate, and then took a bus ride over to Puerto Natales in Chile. From there began the O Circuit Trek in Torres Del Paine National Park (an extended version of the famous W Trek ) .

This was actually one portion of Patagonia, where I could not just add on more days for a weather buffer. Since I needed to book the accommodation in the park well in advance, I was locked into my days.

Although the weather was not perfect for some of the days on the trail, it was more than suitable for some trekking. Some top highlights included the Grey Glacier , French Valley , and Mirador Las Torres .

After 8 days of hiking the “O”, I made my way back to Puerto Natales and flew to Santiago to end my time in Chile.

Sri Lanka (February 21 – March 15)

It was then across the world to Sri Lanka , where I got to see the ins and outs of the country for the next three weeks. Yes, I know not the best flight plan, but I planned to spend the next several months in Asia/Africa. Along the way I got to experience a little bit of everything including:

• Colombo • Habarana • Polonnaruwa • Kandy • Dalhousie / Adam’s Peak • Nuwara Eliya • Ella • Yala & Udawalawe Safaris • Mirissa

And here is where things just started to get a bit crazy. We are talking March of 2020 as the world began to turn upside down. The remainder of my trip I was supposed to go to China (quickly got nixed), India, South Africa and Namibia.

I soon realized though, that traveling was no longer an option. After deciding to go to South Africa, I just lasted a few days in Cape Town, before taking one of the last flights out of the country back to the US. It wasn’t the way I wanted to end it, but I still did get to travel around the world for a year.

But now I have written a ton about the countries I visited before, during and after the trip around the world. I hope you find the itineraries and travel guides up on the site helpful!

If you have any questions or comments about any of it, just feel free to comment down below. Also be sure to check out some travel tips & tricks to help you better plan your next trip.

Have fun out there and safe travels!

Related posts:

Sharing is caring!

Monday 13th of November 2023

This is very helpful!, thanks so much for taking the time to put it together. Can you expand more on why you didn't go to Australia after NZ? Also, so it was fall when you went to NZ and winter for Australia, any regrets going when you did? thoughts? I've read travelling west, is the best way to do a RTW trip, so it's a given to start in NZ, but when to go to get less tourists but decent weather.

Sunday 6th of August 2023

This is all very inspiring and informative, as I’m considering doing the same. Question, how much did you spend your your entire trip?

Monday 7th of August 2023

Hi Mai - feel free to check out this overview I put together about the costs of traveling the world. Good luck with trip planning!

Monday 26th of June 2023

Hi, love your travel story. Have u visited china ever since u miss the last round? Do you plan to round china? I am looking for a company to go round china. I am 60 years old woman.

Hi Janet - I traveled a long while ago just to Shanghai and Beijing. I have yet to go back but would love to travel more around the country one day!

Friday 23rd of June 2023

Hi, this trip sounds amazing! myself and my husband would love to do this type of trip! How did you manage to sort all this out with transport etc? And how did you budget doing all the travel? How much would you need? Thanks. Katie

Saturday 24th of June 2023

Hi Katie - I just took everything one step at a time. The entire trip was not planned out from day one. While I knew of the overall route for the most part, I did not want to corner myself into making decisions too early. I would recommend writing out the countries that are most interested to you and then doing some research on what an overall route would look like. You can see what is possible and what may be too difficult or expensive to fit in.

As for budget, check out this around the world cost overview up on the site that will walk through it all.

Hope you have an amazing time!

Saturday 10th of June 2023

What was it like coming back to the US and finding work? I want to travel the world for a year or two but it would take me leaving my very stable/promising career.... Which scares me to death! My worry is that I would come home to the US and not be able to get the same type of job.

I also worry that a gap year (0r two) may look bad on a resume. Thoughts?

@hailey, from someone who used to work in Human Resources, the time you spend travelling is an education. Learning language, culture, customs, weather, geography, etc. As a candidate, you bring a lot to the table with this type of experience. It would be a completely different story, if you were just unemployed and laying on the couch for a year. Travel....you won't regret it at all!!!

Tuesday 20th of June 2023

@hailey, The current unemployment rate in the U.S is 3.7%. Anybody who wants a job can find one. As long as the gaps in your resume were doing something interesting and intellectually stimulating (like travelling) and were not spent doing something stupid (like in prison or in re-hab), you'll be fine.

Monday 12th of June 2023

Hi Hailey - everyone is different and I can't say for certain how hard/easy it will be able to come back and find work. I was able to do so within a few months but there are many factors at play such as industry, the economy, demand/supply, etc. I am an advocate of traveling as you can tell, and would recommend doing so if it is something very important to you. There are ways to fill up the gap in the resume - for me it was this site, for others it may volunteering, remote work, etc. It is certainly a tough decision, but hope you make the right one for yourself!! Good Luck!

• Denali National Park
• More Destinations...
• Dawson Creek
• Dawson City
• Fort Nelson
• Fort St John
• Hudson’s Hope
• Watson Lake
• Tumbler Ridge
• Alaska Highway
• Klondike Highway
• Top of the World Highway
• Cassiar Highway
• Haines Highway
• Dempster Highway
• John Hart Highway
• Yellowhead Highway
• Parks Highway
• Seward Highway
• Sterling Highway
• Glenn Highway
• Richardson Highway
• Tok Cut-off
• Denali Highway
• Dalton Highway

Glacier Viewing

Flightseeing

Wildlife Viewing

Find the perfect activity.

Search through locations, accommodations and more.

• Vacation Planning
• Guides & Maps

Destinations

• Things To Do

6 Day Pre Alaska Cruise Itinerary

Includes fairbanks, denali national park and anchorage.

The perfect itinerary to pair with a Cruise from Alaska that begins in either Seward or Whittier. Transportation is included from when you arrive in Fairbanks until you depart on your cruise in either Whittier or Seward. Explore the northern city of Fairbanks and its gold rush history, Alaska’s crown jewel, Denali National Park and Alaska’s largest city, Anchorage before boarding your cruise South.

• Seamless connection with your cruise to Alaska.
• Riverboat Discovery Tour in Fairbanks.
• Denali National Park for 2 nights.
• Tundra Wilderness Tour of Denali National Park.
• Drive along Turnagain Arm. Famous for its Beluga whales and Bore Tides.

Start your tour in Fairbanks, Alaska for 2 nights. You’ll discover a blend of Alaskan charm and be humored by the fabulous stories of Fairbanks’ river front history.

Today, transfer to Discovery Landing for your exciting trip on Chena and Tanana Rivers abord the Riverboat Discovery. On your three-hour cruise the Discovery will take you into the heart of Alaska and the heart of a family who has made the rivers of Alaska a way of life for four generations.

On board your train today, you can relax and view the scenic beauty of tundra areas as you head towards Denali National Park. Be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife and magnificent views of Denali. On-board hosts will inform you of the sights along the way. The train features on-board hosts and a café. You will stay in Denali National Park for the next 2 nights.

Travelling into Denali National Park, the Tundra Wilderness Tour offers wonderful diversity for visitors. Incredible scenery, a narrated history of the park road, and some of the best opportunities to view the park’s wildlife inhabitants. A full view of Denali is a rare treat in Denali National Park & Preserve.

Traveling between Anchorage and Denali Park via Luxury Dome Rail. The train crosses the Knik River with the Chugach Mountains as a backdrop. Just south of Talkeetna, watch for views of Denali rising high above the Susitna River. Just south of Denali National Park, Broad Pass offers majestic views of the Alaska Range in all direction. You will overnight in Anchorage for 1 night.

This morning is free if you are departing to Whittier, so you may explore Anchorage at your own pace. In the afternoon you will take a motorcoach to connect to Whittier to connect with your cruise line. If you are departing to Seward, the motorcoach will leave in the morning for the drive to Seward to meet your cruise.

On this trip enjoy spectacular scenery as you travel along the Seward Highway by motor coach. You will travel alongside Turnagain Arm, a body of water that features the world’s second largest tides, at over 30 feet. Your knowledgeable driver/guide will offer tour highlights along the way.

• Motorcoach from Anchorage to Seward if departing on Royal Celebrity or Norwegian Cruise Lines.
• Motorcoach from Anchorage to Whittier if departing on Holland America or Princess Cruise Lines.

Tour Booking Request

What happens next.

• After making your booking request you will be contacted by an Alaska travel expert from Knightly Tours.
• You can discuss the details of your trip. Including how long you have and the highlights that you want to include.
• Adding or removing days
• Adding or removing tours
• Adding flights or a cruise
• Just ask for other custom options
• When you have your dream Alaska itinerary complete, you can reserve your space and make a deposit.

Call Directly

You can call Knightly Tours directly and Tell them you are interested in Booking a “Bell’s Tour” and they will help you out.

(US Only): 800-426-2123 extension: 222

International: (425) 998-5440 extension: 222

TERMS & CONIDITIONS

Reservations, Deposits and Final Payment.

A deposit of $500 per person required to confirm a proposal.  Unique, upscale lodges, guided sports lodges may require an incremental deposit of 30% of the total fare. You will be advised of this before you make a deposit on your vacation. Knightly Tours will be processing all credit cards. Final Payment is due 75 days prior to departure. Late arrival of final payment delays document delivery or may result in released or cancelled space that would be subject to cancellation fees.

Late Bookings

Bookings made within 75 days of departure require a credit card guarantee. If space is not confirmed no charges will be made to the card.  No space will be confirmed until this credit card guarantee is received.

All pricing is USD,  per-person based on a run of house hotel rooms double-occupancy rate . Single, triple, quad and children’s rates are given on request when available. Package prices include all transportation, accommodations, sightseeing and courtesy transfers as outlined. Knightly Tours’ preparation / planning costs are also included. Prices are subject to change without notice and any surcharges imposed by suppliers will be the responsibility of the guest regardless of payment status.   Price breakdowns are not given on vacation packages.

All departure days of the week, dates and prices are published based on the most up to date information at time of printing. Knightly Tours reserves the right to alter dates, days of the week and prices based upon final schedules imposed by suppliers.  Knightly Tours reserves the right to substitute suppliers of equal or greater value at its sole discretion.

A $50 per person fee (maximum $150 per booking) will be assessed for changes made after receipt of final payment.

PLEASE NOTE NAME CHANGES ARE CONSIDERED CANCELLATIONS AND REBOOKINGS. ALL PENALTIES WILL BE APPLIED.

Documents will be sent electronically and will include all information.  If required vouchers that are needed will be included. Paper documents will be charged $50.  All documents will be sent 18 to 21 days prior to Knightly Tours first service.

Request in writing must be received within 60 days of completion of the trip for services cancelled or altered by the vendor. No refunds will be made on services that are voluntarily cancelled or changed by the traveler.

Cancellation Charges

The purchase of comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. Please provide written notice of cancellation. The following  per person  cancellation fees will be strictly enforced:

Prior to 75 days before tour departure:

• $100 Administration Fee, plus any supplier cancellation charges
• 75-46 days before tour departure: 30% of fare, plus any supplier cancellation charges

      *     45-31 days before tour departure: 70% of fare, plus any supplier cancellation charges

• 30-0 days before tour departure:  100% of fare

Travel Insurance – Strongly Recommended

Sometimes bad things happen to good people! Knightly Tours wants you to book and travel with peace of mind. We strongly recommend that you buy Travel Insurance, so you can relax.

Through CSA Travel Protection we offer you a travel insurance program that provides you protection from Trip Interruption & Cancellation, Travel Delay, Baggage & Document Loss, Emergency Assistance, Medical Expense Protection and 24-hour Emergency Assist Line.

Guest Responsibilities / Physical Limitations

You are responsible for determining your fitness for any trip and must notify Knightly Tours at time of booking of any physical or mental limitations that would require special services while traveling.  Specific tours and air carriers have weight restrictions and surcharges apply.  Guests’ must give weights at the time of booking.  Avis car rentals require you to be 21 years of age and have a major credit card, for Hertz you must be 25 years of age and have a major credit card. Failure to notify Knightly Tours of the above conditions can result in loss of fares paid by the traveler to us. Guests booking airline travel will be required to give their full legal name and birthday at the time of booking.  No tour is confirmed until this information and deposit are received.

Immigration & Customs

Due to heightened security restrictions all cruise guests, and guest entering Canada should travel with a valid passport or Customs approved identification. All non U.S. citizens must a carry passport and appropriate visas.

Responsibilities

All vacations are handled under the business management of Knightly Travel Services, Inc. (dba Knightly Tours), at 19119 North Creek Parkway Suite 108, Bothell, WA 98011 (800) 426-2123. Written notification of claims against Knightly Tours must be given within 60 days of completion of tour and suits must be filed in the Court of the State of Washington. Knightly Tours acts solely as the agent for various transportation companies and sightseeing contractors and assumes no responsibility for any personal injury sustained while traveling to/from or on a Knightly Tours vacation or for loss or damage to any personal belongings while on our vacation. Acceptance of Knightly Tours travel documents by agent or individual is considered approval of all above condition

Alaska Travel Tips

Sign up for our 4-part email series to discover critical information for planning your ultimate Alaska vacation!

©Bells Travel Guides. All Rights Reserved

• City and Highway Maps
• Best Time to Visit Alaska
• Mosquitoes in Alaska
• Camping in Alaska
• Which Alaska Cruise Itinerary is Best?
• One Week Itinerary Ideas for Alaska
• Alaska in June

Looking to see bears in Alaska?

Check out these amazing alaska tours., think you know alaska, take the quiz and find out....

• Find a Cruise​ Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations​ Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay​ Make a Payment Crown & Anchor Society​ Royal Caribbean Blog Royal Caribbean Group
• Back to Main Menu
• Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-1-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/gbr/en/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
• Cruise Deals
• Last Minute Cruises​
• Family Cruises​
• 2024-2025 Cruises
• Mini Cruises
• First Time Cruisers
• What's Included
• Cruising Guides
• All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-3-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/gbr/en/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
• Deck Plans​
• Cruise Dining 
• Onboard Activities
• Cruise Rooms​
• The Cruise Experience​
• All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/gbr/en/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
• Cruise Ports​
• Shore Excursions​
• Perfect Day at CocoCay​
• Mediterranean Cruises​
• Caribbean Cruises​
• European Cruises​
• Greece Cruises​
• Italy Cruises​
• Cruise Planner
• Book a Flight
• Check-In for My Cruise​
• Make a Payment
• Redeem Cruise Credit
• Update Guest Information
• Beverage Packages​
• Dining Packages​
• My Account​
• All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-6-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/gbr/en/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
• Boarding Requirements
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises

• Tour Account ›
• Travel Forum ›
• Travel Forum
• Greece Pre-Tour I...

Greece Pre-Tour Itinerary: Which Islands?

I have signed up for the RS Athens and the Heart of Greece tour in October 2023. It's my first RS tour, and I am so excited! Yay!!

Now, I am thinking that I would like to spend the better part of a week before the tour exploring some of the Greek islands. I am figuring I can visit two islands (possibly three). The challenge is to figure out which two islands to visit.

Generally, I like historical sites and photography (and possibly painting or sketching) opportunities --- pretty light, interesting people, and such. I don't care as much about beaches and nightlife. I definitely want to see plenty of whitewashed houses and churches. I hate to rent cars and would much rather rely on boats, taxis, public transportation, or walking.

My game plan is to fly straight to one of the islands, take a ferry to the next island, and then most likely take a ferry back to Athens/Piraeus, arriving at the hotel in Athens the evening before the RS tour begins. (I realize that I could fly back to Athens, but I think the ferry might be a more unique experience. We have plenty of airplanes here in Atlanta, but ferries are a rarity for me.)

After noodling flight schedules and ferry schedules, I have come up with several possible itineraries where I could make decent connections.

1) 2-3 nights Heraklion; 2 nights Santorini

Visit the Minoan ruins and museum on day 1 in Heraklion; possibly take a day trip by bus to Rethymno on day 2. The ferry from Heraklion arrives in Santorini at 10 a.m. Although I would like to visit Santorini, I am somewhat concerned that Santorini will be a Disneyland overrun with Instagram influencers and cruise ship passengers --- not my idea of a pleasant experience. Also, Santorini is more expensive than I would prefer.

2) 2 nights in Heraklion; 1 night in Santorini; 3 nights in Milos

Pretty similar to #1, except that I would skip the second day in Heraklion/Crete and shorten my time in Santorini. Although I would very much like to see the Minoan sites on Crete, I wonder whether Crete might deserve more time than I am willing to spend on this trip.

This itinerary would give me one solid afternoon and one solid morning in Santorini. Maybe that's enough. Then, I could head to Milos for a more relaxing experience.

3) 3 nights in Paros/Antiparos OR Naxos; 3 nights in Sifnos OR Milos

Right now, I am leaning toward flying into Paros and staying in Antiparos. I am not feeling drawn to Naxos yet, but it works well logistically. I can't make up my mind between Sifnos and Milos -- the logistics would be similar for either. I like the idea of being a little off the beaten path.

Originally, I was leaning toward Heraklion/Santorini, but now I am learning more toward Paros and Sifnos or Milos. I would appreciate any suggestions or feedback.

You should find a way to fit in Mykonos because it links you via a 40 minute ferry ride to Delos the reputed birthplace of Appollo and Artemis which is designated as a World Heritage designated site and has plenty to see. The other two islands with the most historical significance are Crete (Knossos Palace) and Rhodes (site of Collossus, one of the 7 Ancient Wonders of the World).

Be aware that ferries are weather dependant and if a storm blows in, as they can do in October, your travel plans could be scuppered. Also the ferries are subject to strikes, but you usually get warned of strikes a week or so before hand.so can make other arrangements

Crete is definitely worth a longer trip with a long history and some tremendous sites ranging from Minoan palaces, Roman towns Venetian forts and Ottoman mosques.

Given that you only have one week, you won't have time to go to more than 2 islands. Bad weather causing delays or cancellations of ferries is also a possibility to take into account when you make a lot of trips in such a short time. So don't try to make a record of island visits, but make sure you enjoy the places where you will be.

About your thoughts on possible choices:

In my opinion, Crete is too large to stay there only two or three days, especially if you don't want to rent a car.

Santorini, even if in October is quieter (although this year it is likely to be very busy even in October), is as you say a mixture of a shopping center on a sales day and a blue and white Disneyland, especially if you don't stay long enough to see anything other than the main "attractions" for cruise passengers and Instagrammers.

By eliminating Crete and Santorini as in option 1, only Milos remains

You can consider 3 nights in Milos as the first island since it has an airport and then go to Sifnos by ferry for the other 3 nights.

> 3) 3 nights in Paros/Antiparos OR Naxos; 3 nights in Sifnos OR Milos

3 nights in Paros/Antiparos OR Naxos...

Even if the majority of the members of this forum will advise you to choose Naxos there is no reason to favor Naxos over its neighbor Paros. Each island has its advantages and disadvantages and both have an airport. To each argument for Naxos I can give one for Paros, and vice versa. Naxos is bigger, greener and more mountainous but these are benefits you won't be able to enjoy in just 3 days.

3 nights in Sifnos OR Milos...

From a practical point of view, from Milos you can take a flight to Athens. Sifnos does not have an airport, you will need to take a ferry. And it does not have a few lunar landscapes like Milos but has many other advantages, its authenticity, its beauty, its gastronomy, a very good bus network (better than in Milos), superb and easy hiking trails, and the authentic blue and white villages of your dreams.

That said, an important parameter is the period of October. From October 15 a large part of the accommodation and restaurants will close. The more touristic and larger the island, the more choices you will have. Which unfortunately does not plead for Sifnos if you are looking for a minimum of animation.

So, taking into account the preferences you have given, I would keep Milos Paros/Antiparos Naxos Sifnos

By staying 3 nights on each island (if you optimize the travels)

In April, I did your first choice--Heraklion and Santorini. And the same number of nights.

I could have stayed in Crete an entire week there is so much to see. I only spent three nights.

I also took the same ferry you're thinking of to get to Santorini.

Santorini is interesting. I really enjoyed the excavation at Akrotiri. The island is beautiful and the sunset views for Oia were amazing. Yes, Santorini can get a little touristy but mostly, I felt, in Fira and near the beach. While I probably wouldn't want to spend a week there, I'm glad I decided to go. I spent two nights and with the early ferry gave me 1.5 days. It was enough for me.

I had been putting off going to Greece and now I'm sorry I did. I loved it. I'm going back in the fall.

It's really not worth going to Crete for just a few days. It's the largest of the Greek Islands and deserves weeks to fully experience.

I would pick two of the smaller islands that are closer to the mainland for your 7 days and especially islands that are fairly close to one another and on the same ferry route.

There are several in the Cyclades that may work for you like Sifnos/Milos or Naxos/Paros or even Tinos/Syros.

I've been to Sifnos, Milos, Naxos and Tinos and I can highly recommend them. Haven't been to Paros or Syros but from all accounts are worthy of a visit.

Don't overlook Aegina/Agistri the two closest islands to the mainland with Aegina having everything one would want in a Greek Island and Agistri known for it's family atmosphere and beaches.

@dhkhuff - Thanks for the suggestions of Delos and Rhodes.

Although I would like to see Rhodes, I will probably skip it on this trip. Turkey winds on my travels frequently, and so I am thinking that Rhodes would make sense next time I visit Fetiye or Marmaris.

Your suggestion of Delos is moving up on my radar. It appears that one can get to Delos from Naxos or Paros as well as Mykonos. I am exploring whether that might be another option for me, even if it means spending an extra day in the islands.

Thanks, @lanlubber, for reminding me of the possibility of a ferry strike or bad weather. I have an extra 24 hours of padding at the end of the excursion, which might provide some breathing room. Still, it's a good idea keep an eye out for possible interruptions and make sure my accommodations are refundable.

I agree about Crete. It's a big place that is probably worth a longer trip.

@JoLui - Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts. You have given me some good things to think about. I agree that it would be better to spend more time on fewer islands.

I should have mentioned that the RS tour begins on October 2, and so I actually would be visiting the islands the last week of September. I think I will be there before things start shutting down.

@Frank II -- My first thought when I started the pre-trip planning was that I wanted to see Minoan stuff and Santorini. Maybe that initial reaction was the right one. It's good hear that that itinerary worked well for you. It's also good to hear that you didn't find Santorini too touristy.

@tommyk5 - thanks for taking the time to respond. Everyone seems to be in agreement that one needs more time on Crete.

I haven't looked much at the Saronic islands because the RS tour goes to Hydra. I want to try something different for the pre-tour excursion.

We returned from Greece at the end of May. We spent 3 nights on Santorini and loved it! It is unique and the views of the caldera are stunning! There are crowds but in May it was manageable and did not ruin our trip. If you spend 3 nights in Santorini, then you would have a day to rent a car which will give you the chance to see the rest of the island. There is more to Santorini than just the caldera views. Visit the archaeological site at Akrotiri, the red sand beach, the Akrotiri lighthouse, the black sand beach in Perissa.

We also spent 4 nights in Naxos and loved it! It's a beautiful island and very, very different from Santorini. It's quieter and more laidback. We also rented a car for a day and drove all over the island, stopping at lovely small towns and fishing villages and saw beautiful inland and coastal scenery. It's a very easy and short ferry ride from Santorini to Naxos (2 hours).

While on Naxos, we did meet people who visited Paros and they raved about Paros, too. You would take the same ferry (Blue Star Ferries) from Santorini to Paros. It stops at Naxos first.

By October, Mykonos will be the only island with day trips to Delos. So, find out if Naxos or Paros still has trips to Delos in September.

@leonard - Thanks! That thought had crossed my mind. The boats from Naxos/Paros to Amorgos definitely stop sailing at the end of August. I think the boats to Delos/Mykonos continue through the end of September, but it's on my list of things to double check before I finalize any kind of itinerary.

The possibility of a day trip to Delos and Mykonos from Naxos or Paros definitely increases the appeal of Naxos/Paros/Sifnos itinerary. It would add a major archaeological site and give me a chance to take a quick peek at a hugely popular (over-touristed) destination without breaking the bank.

Marie, for more certainty about Mykonos day-excursions, I suggest something "old-fashioned" -- use the email link on the website to write an actual e-inquiry. I have done that in previous years (re Start-date of those day-trips ), got a prompt useful response, different from info on the website... conditions & demand may cause date-changes. Also, always good to be polite ("appreciate very much your help") ... in Greece I've found manners matter.

The boats from Naxos/Paros to Amorgos definitely stop sailing at the end of August.

The boats for Amorgos do not stop at the end of August. You will find several possibilities every day between Naxos/Paros and Amorgos in September, October etc. With Seajets, Blue Star Ferries and the Express Skopetilis of Small Cyclades Lines. The ferries operate all year round, they are not just for tourists, they are the main means of transport for people who live on the islands and the main means of supplying food, various equipment, and materials.

In Naxos or Paros you will find several travel agencies that offer day trips to Delos. In Paros departures are from the port of Naoussa in the north of the island. The price varies between 50 and 60 euros and does not include access to Delos which is 8 euros (in 2022). Access is free on the last weekend of September (European Day)

Since your trip is scheduled for September 2023, you have plenty of time to view these details of excursions and ferry schedules. The priority is to know which islands you want to go to, find the accommodation that suits you and look at the September 2022 prices to get an idea of ​​​​the prices. Use Booking, Airbnb, and Google Maps to find this information.

And don't forget, it's up to you but 3 islands in a week it's too much. It's transforming a trip into a visit to an amusement park and the islands into a ride in this park

Thank you all so much for your responses. The discussion has helped me to crystallize my ideas. My big takeaways are:

• 3 nights minimum at each stop;
• 2 islands max (for a week of travel);
• Keep my plans flexible in case of storms or ferry strikes;
• I would enjoy either itinerary -- Crete(Knossos)/Santorini, or Naxos(or Paros)/Sifnos(or Milos). One really can't go wrong either way.

Create(Knossos)/Santorini has the blockbuster sites with the drawback of more crowds and higher prices. Naxos/Sifnos seems the slower, more laid back option. At the moment, I am leaning ever so slightly toward the Naxos/Sifnos option, although that may change over time.

If you do include Crete, make Heraklion a day trip from lovely Chania. There is no comparison between Heraklion and Chania. Visit Knossos and Archeological museum, and return to Chania. I recommend that you visit Paros and/or Naxos.

This topic has been automatically closed due to a period of inactivity.

• Enable Accessibility

• 00800 0310 21 21 1-855-577-9489 1-877-288-3037 1-877-288-3037 1-877-474-2969
• | NCL Travel Blog">11-Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
• | Norwegian Cruise Line">14-Day Authentic Alaska - Northbound Cruise Tour | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line">14-Day Authentic Alaska - Southbound Cruise Tour | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | Norwegian Cruise Line">20-Day Transpacific from Tokyo (Yokohama) & Alaska | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | NCL Travel Blog">11 Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
• View All Results
• Preferences
• Latitudes Rewards
• Special Offers
• Personalised Recommendations
• Make reservations before you cruise
• 1 (current)

* Terms & Conditions Package not available on sailings less than 5 days or charter sailings.

• 00800 0310 21 21

HAWAII CRUISE TOURS

• Email Sign Up For Special Offers
• Phone Let Us Call You

If you are interested in our Cruise Tours please contact our reservations department at 00800 0310 21 21 for questions and bookings.

Pride of America 11-Day Oahu Explorer

4 Days in Oahu | 7-Day Cruise on Pride of America

Hawaii is a magnificent meld of lush rainforests, sky-high waves, ancient kingdoms, World War II history and beauty of volcanic proportions. On this tour, you'll soon experience the traditions of some of Hawaii's original habitants at the Polynesian Cultural Centre, Kualoa Ranch, and Dole Plantation. Drive along our scenic North & South shores. Plan to re-live the sights and sounds of the events leading up to the attack on Oahu through several interpretive displays at the Pearl Harbour Visitor Centre and walk in General MacArthur's footsteps on the Surrender Deck of the battleship USS Missouri. This is the time to discover what paradise means to you. Whether it's hanging ten, exploring the mountains and untouched beauty of Ko'olau Mountain Range, or learning an authentic hula dance, there is much to see, do and experience. We look forward to providing you with an authentic Hawaiian experience every step of the way.

For complete programme details, download our Hawaii Cruise Tour Brochure .

• Scenic Tour of O'ahu’s North Shore and South Shore
• Polynesian Cultural Centre
• Pearl Harbour Tour including: Pearl Harbour Visitor Centre, USS Bowfin, USS Missouri, Pacific Aviation Museum, and the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific
• Kualoa Ranch Tour
• Explore Waikiki
• Local Experienced Tour Guides
• Transfer to Port of Honolulu

*Note: Due to group ticketing restrictions, A visit to the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbour is not included.

PLAN, BOOK & TRAVEL

Book flights, trains, buses, car rental, accommodation and hotels all in one transaction

Supercharge Your Travel Plans: Embrace AI for Smarter Adventures!

Plan your dream multi-destination trip.

Research the most famous attractions and destinations with our interactive trip planner tool and essential travel guide

BOOK ALL YOUR TRAVEL NEEDS IN ONE

Search and reserve a combination of flights, accommodation, trains, buses, activities, cars and airport transfers

ROOM CONFIGURATION

Maximum of 4 persons per room

Total Number Of Minors

Adults (18+)

Minors (18-)

We request minor's date of birth so that our system can provide customers with the best prices and deals based on a travellers age.

travel type

9 - 15 Days

15 - 22 Days

travel theme

trending trips

Search and customise one of our pre-planned travel itinerary templates to create your perfect trip

Explore nature

1 destination

Parks, Canyons & Vegas

Discover NYC

Trip of the Month - Drive and Discover the Northeast Corridor

A cross-continental journey through the country’s best natural landscapes

US National Parks trip

Volcanoes, beaches, wildlife and rainforests in tropical Costa Rica

Nature at its best in Costa Rica

Explore one of the most attractive and historic regions of the USA

The Best of New England and New York

Explore the Bay Area

A Northern Californian Wine Tour

Pristine sand and swaying palms in Mexico

Beach Hopping in Mexico

A perfect combination of city and nature in Eastern Canada

An Eastern Canadian Adventure

New York, Boston, New Orleans - Three Unique US Cities

Three US Cities

Embark on an unforgettable journey through California

A Road Trip to the Bay area and beyond

Toronto, Quebec City and Montreal - three of Canada

An Eastern Canadian City Tour

Check out the home of the American Revolution, the Big Apple and some of America

Best of US East Coast

Enjoy a roadtrip to discover the beautiful state of California

California Dream

Sea and sun in a Mexican paradise

Cancun & Tulum: A Caribbean Escape

Enjoy a lot of activities in 3 different National Parks.

Costa Rica Family Tour

Indulge in sun-soaked beaches, discover ancient ruins and vibrant cultures on this memorable Mexican adventure.

Discover Mexico: Beaches, Ruins, and Urban Wonders

Discover Western Canada while skiing and marvel at the wonderful nature

Discover Western Canada

Experience the best of Southern California

Driving Southern California: Beaches, deserts, and mountains await.

Theme Parks in Orlando, Alligators in the Everglades, sunbathing in Miami Beach and Key West.

Family Fun in the Sunshine State: Florida Vacation

Discover the popular cities on the East Coast and enjoy a unforgettable holiday with your family

For all the family on the US East Coast

Discover Florida

Just Drive: The Best of Florida's East Coast

Embark on an epic urban adventure as you explore the vibrant metropolises of America.

Metropolitan Marvels: A Cross-Country Journey Through USA

Experience Mexico

Mexican Adventure: Mexico City, Acapulco, Oaxaca

Mexican Bliss: Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara

Two weeks, three destinations, an abundance of Mexico.

Mexico in Two Weeks

Florida’s top two beach towns in one trip

Miami & Fort Lauderdale: Urban Beach Escape

Experience the best of Florida via car visiting Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Sarasota, the Everglades and Miami Beach

Road Trip: The Ultimate Florida Circle

One trip, two American icons

Surf, Sun & Stars: Hawaii & LA Adventure

Experience the magic of North America

The Best of The Rocky Mountains

Embark on an epic road trip from NYC to Niagara, Toronto & Montreal,

2 destinations

The North East Triangle Road Trip

Saddle up for a road trip through some of the most iconic Wild West towns and landscapes in the Southwest.

The Southwest Splendor Road Trip

Explore Bordeaux and beyond

Chateaus, Caves & Costal Breezes: A 10-Day French Adventure

Journey through fairytale lands, castle-spangled horizons, and ancient legends during this 17-day European voyage

3 destinations

Enchanted Europe: A fairytale journey through Castles and Legends

Uncover the charm of Rome, allure of Amalfi and more.

Rome, Amalfi and beyond in 13 days

Discover Europe

8 destinations

Best of Europe

Thrilling theme parks and captivating landmarks lead to an enchanting Venice adventure in this 12-day escapade.

Dreams & Thrills: 12 Days of Theme Parks and Venice's Mystique

Discover the legacy of empires on a captivating self-drive adventure through Central Europe.

5 destinations

Imperial Dreams: 20 Days of Central Europe's Majesty

Five locations that truly capture the romance of Italy

Italian Romance

Discover World War stories at iconic sites and renowned museums during this heritage expedition

6 destinations

Trail of Remembrance: A 21-Day World War Historical journey

Discover the best of Greece

Greek Island Odyssey in 2 weeks

Visit the best attractions in Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia

The Best of Spain's Major Cities

Enjoy the natural alpine wonders of three Swiss destinations

A Switzerland Nature Getaway

See the breathtaking landscapes and unique landmarks of Ireland

Best of Ireland

Tour the best of Scandinavia and witness The Northern Lights

Experience beautiful Scandinavia

Charming France: Highlights of three magical towns.

Three Romantic French Locations

Three exquisite Greek locations

A Romantic Greek Getaway

London, Liverpool, Edinburgh, Dublin – three countries, four outstanding cities

Best Cities of the British Isles

Journey through the full variety of Switzerland

Best of Switzerland

Discover beautiful Madeira and Lisbon

Madeira: An island paradise roundtrip

Discover the beauty of Montenegro

Montenegro: A scenic roundtrip adventure

Explore the capital and beyond in Spain

Spain's hidden treasures

A magical family experience in the City of Lights

A Family Vacation in Paris and Disneyland

Immerse yourself in Switzerland

Alpine Adventure: Zurich, Geneva, and St. Moritz

Two European city highlights in one trip

Amsterdam & Brussels: A Mini Euro Trip

History meets modernity in the heart of urban Greece

Athens & Thessaloniki: Greece's Dual Delights

Northern Europe’s lesser-known urban wonders

4 destinations

Baltic Capitals & Helsinki: A Cultural Tour

See the best of Munich, Salzburg and Vienna

Bavarian & Austrian Escape

Explore stunning cities & nature in South Germany & Switzerland

Best of the Alps: Zurich to Munich

A short holiday in Paris and the Champagne region

Champagne Sipping in Paris & Reims

Discover and enjoy Nice and Marseille

City break in Provence

Visit renowned cultural attractions and monuments in 3 of the most historically rich cities of Europe

Cultural Express Europe in 10 days

Embark on a journey to Bulgaria

Discover Bulgaria's Gems: Plovdiv and more

Discover the hidden gems of Leuven and Nijmegen

Discovering Benelux' Cities

Explore 6 countries in 2 weeks

Eastern European capitals

Embark on a captivating adventure through France, from the romance of Paris to the coastal charm of La Rochelle.

Enchanting France: A 3-Week Journey of Splendor

Drive, hike, and explore for 10 days in Iceland

Explore Iceland's Ring Road

Discover Alsace on a trip which leads you through 3 different countries.

Family vacation in the Alsace region

Ten days, five stunning Italian locations

Five Beautiful Italian Cities

Discover Germany

Germany Unveiled: A 3-Week Journey through Iconic Cities

Three countries, three cities, one Germanic journey.

Germany, Austria and Switzerland

Uncover Greece

Glorious Greece: 21 Days of Mediterranean Magic

Experience a remarkable 4-week exploration of Italy

Italy Unveiled: Discover Timeless Beauty and Historic Treasures

Discover the vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and picturesque landscapes of the United Kingdom in just 3 weeks

Legends and Landscapes: Discovering the Best of the UK

Two jewels of the Lombardy region

Lombardy's Dual Delights: Milan & Bergamo

The glamour and beauty of France’s Mediterranean coast

Marseille & Provence: A Coastal Escape

Explore Copenhagen and Stockholm in 4 days

Nordic City Break

Explore the rugged beauty of Norway

Norway's Nordkapp: A journey to the top

Discover the charm of Bucharest and Timisoara

Romania's Urban Adventure

Discover two Italian urban icons

Rome & Naples: A Classic Italian Journey

Discover the cities and Highlands of Scotland

Scotland round trip

Two famous ski resorts in Austria and Switzerland

Skiing in Austria and Switzerland

Discover Spain

Sun, Sights, and Sangria: Epic 3-Week Spanish Adventure

Two acclaimed destinations in Northern Italy

Venice & Verona: A Cultural Italian Escape

Two cities; two countries; a feast of culture

Vienna & Budapest: A European Twin-City Tour

Cities, mountains, lakes, and chocolate – A Swiss winter has something for everyone.

Winter Family Fun in Switzerland

Discover Méribel / Courchevel and Chamonix

Winter sports in the French alps

Unveil Vietnam's treasures over 14 days, from ancient streets to emerald bays, an adventure like no other awaits.

Explore Vietnam: City Lights, Coastal Delights, and Majestic Landscapes in 14 Days!

Enjoy the most attractive cities in Japan within 2 weeks

Southern Japan highlights from Tokyo to Fukuoka

Bustling cities and relaxing beaches – the best of both in Vietnam

Beaches and Cities in Vietnam

Cities, beaches, temples and nature in Thailand

Romantic Highlights of Thailand

Tradition and modernity combined - a twin destination family trip.

A Family Holiday in Istanbul and Dubai

Beach, City, History

Beach, City, History, Koh Samui, Bangkok, Angkor Wat

Experience the wonders of the subcontinent

Discover India and Nepal

A Mediterranean road trip from Antalya to Dalaman

Discovering Turkey's Southwest Coast

Fun in Tel Aviv, historic and religious sights in Jerusalem and relaxation at the beach in Eilat.

Israel - a wealth of different impressions

A panoptical insight into Turkish city life

Istanbul, Izmir & Antalya: Turkey's Top Trio

Four unique cities showcasing the best of Japan

Japanese Culture and City Highlights

A Journey Through Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia's Best-Kept Secrets

Experience Thailand

Thailand: beaches, nature and culture in 2 weeks

Explore the most exciting cities in China and Hong Kong

The Best of China

Enjoy city life and beautiful beaches in one trip

Trip to Singapore and Malaysia

From cityscapes to lush jungles and pristine beaches, experience the best of Thailand

Tropical Treasures: Exploring Thailand's Ultimate 2-Week Adventure

Explore the captivating beauty and historical significance of Japan

Ultimate Japan Adventure

Soak up the sunshine in some of Australia’s best beach locations

An Australian Beach Holiday

Discover Melbourne, Ayers Rock, Cairns, and Sydney within 15 days.

Highlights of Australia

A definitive tour of Te Waipounamu

New Zealand's South Island

Sports, wildlife and theme parks on Australia’s East coast.

An Eastern Australian Family Adventure

A journey through the scenery of Te Ika-a-Māui

New Zealand's North Island

Explore the cities and landscape in one trip

Road trip from Sydney to Melbourne

Experience the best of both islands in this definitive tour.

The Best of New Zealand

Island Hopping in Paradise: Sydney, Bora Bora, Tahiti

The ultimate tropical getaway

Indulge in the best of Australian wines in its most vibrant cities

Wine and city life in Southern Australia

From coastal escapes to wine regions and cultural hubs, explore Australia

Wonders Down Under: A 35-Day Journey through Australia

A mountain, sea, and desert adventure in wonderous Morocco

A Morocco Adventure

Kilimanjaro, The Serengeti, and tropical Zanzibar in one African adventure

Tanzania and Zanzibar

Explore the wineries of South Africa’s Western Cape

A South African Wine Tour

Visit three countries in one mesmerising African wildlife adventure

An African Wildlife Adventure

Tarangire wildlife Park, Serengeti National Park, mystic and beautiful beaches in Zanzibar

Best wildlife parks in your life

Combine wildlife and city living on a 12-day South African tour.

City and Safari in South Africa

From Table Mountain

Explore Amazing South Africa: Cape Town to Kruger

Visit Marrakesh, Casablanca, Rabat and Fes. The 4 royal cities of Morocco.

Explore Morocco's 4 royal cities

Travel along the famous Garden Route beginning with 4 days in Capetown and Stellenbosch.

Garden Route incl. Cape Town and Stellenbosch

Discover Morocco’s two most talked about cities

Marrakech & Casablanca: A Moroccan Mosaic

Experience the beautiful beaches and cities as well as the rainforest

Explore Brazil in two weeks

Experience Argentina

Highlights of Argentina in 14 days

An Andean adventure with a stop-off in The Galapagos

Ecuador, Peru and The Galápagos

Combine stunning locations with exquisite wines in Chile

A Chilean Wine Tour

Beaches, waterfalls and rainforest adventures in Brazil

An Amazonian Adventure in Brazil

Discover the most famous wine regions of Argentina

An Argentine Wine Tour

From the iconic beaches of Rio to the mystical Amazon rainforest, experience Brazil

Discover Brazil's Best: Rio, Falls, Amazon & More

Four destinations that capture the soul of Brazil

The Best of Brazil

Use our Interactive Trip Planner Map to build your perfect trip

Save Time and money with our all-in-one online travel solution

Search from our Huge Range of products and providers

Our travellers are saying

Low cost airlines, train and even bus

We were able to compare prices for low cost airlines, train and even bus. The first travel planning and booking platform with the option to compare prices for flights, train and bus. Before I had to search numerous platforms

Great Options for Budget Travelers

As a budget traveler, I'm always looking for ways to save money while still experiencing the best of what a destination has to offer. This travel platform offers a wide range of options that cater to all budgets, making it easy for me to find affordable flights, accommodations, and activities. I appreciate the transparency and user-friendly interface of the website. Highly recommend!

Tolle Hotelauswahl zu gewünschter Qualität und Preis

Auf der Karte konnte ich den gewünschten Ort in der Innenstadt ausfindig machen und nach dem niedrigsten Preis und der gewünschten Bewertungen auswählen.

Flexible and easy to use

One of the things I appreciate most about this travel platform is how flexible and easy to use it is. I was able to customize my trip based on my schedule, preferences, and budget, without feeling restricted or overwhelmed. The platform offers a wide range of options that cater to different needs, making it a one-stop-shop for all things travel. I highly recommend this platform to anyone looking for a seamless and stress-free travel experience.

Konnten zu einem niedrigen Preis buchen

Bei der Auswahl des Transportmittels konnte ich auf einen Blick zwischen Billigfluglinien, Zug und Bus nach Preis und Reisedauer vergleichen. So konnte ich unsere Reise gemäss unserem Budget zusammenstellen.

Matthias M.

Hassle-free booking and affordable prices

I was initially hesitant to book my trip online, but I'm so glad I did! This travel platform made the process so easy and hassle-free. I was able to find great deals on flights and hotels, and they even helped me plan my itinerary. The best part? It was all within my budget! I would definitely use this platform again for my future travels.

Joli design

Très belle conception et bonne vue d'ensemble.

I was amazed that I could book all my stuff like flights, hotels, car (you could even book activities) in one go. And even worked 😊. Worked perfectly for our trip through Europe. Will definitely book a further trip with Travelplanbooker as soon as the next holidays are due.

Good trip suggestions

Booked the trip to Thailand for my family. We were overhelmed by the country as it was our first visit to Thailand. The city of Bangkok, the nature in the north (visited an Elephant sanctuary), and beach time in the south. All were happy with this mix. We book definitely again a trip from Travelplanbooker. And visit Thailand again for sure.

Guías de viaje útiles por países

La guía de viaje por países fue muy útil. Encontramos la información más importante sobre los países en pocas palabras. Incluso se describen las principales atracciones turísticas.

Flexible pre-planned trips

We wanted to go to Argentina for two weeks but didn’t really knew what to best and where to go in this time. As we saw this “preplanned” trip we thought it’s might good idea to something like this. As there are no hotels and flights booked or suggested you can choose or book those by yourself. Also big plus is that you can adapt the trip. We extended the Buenos Aires stay by 1 day, and reduced the stay in Ushuaia by 1 instead. So we can recommend the Trip section, it was worth it!

Reiseroute ist übersichtlich dargestellt

Am besten gefällt uns die Reiseplanübersicht mit dem Kalender an der Seite. So hat man immer einen guten Überblick, was man bisher geplant hat.

Great activities to book

Was good to see what activities you can do in a city and even just book it. We booked the Montjuic Cable Car and had an amazing view over Barcelona.

A lot of infos on the website

It takes a moment to get familiar with the page. But then it’s super cool to plan your whole trip. You have a lot of infos to all the places and countries and as well for sights and attractions.

Todo en un sitio web

Nos encantó poder reservar todo nuestro viaje aquí y no tener que visitar varios sitios web.

Easy to book

It was very easy to book a multi destination trip. I will use it again for sure!

Trending travel themes

Are you planning something specific for your next trip check out our trending travel themes and learn about the hottest destinations not to be missed., build from scratch, privacy overview.

Calypso Tree

34 free travel itinerary templates (word, excel & pdf).

Free travel itinerary templates:  Your itinerary refers to your journey’s more detailed plan. Usually, highlights some places to be visited and the travel plan. By having itinerary templates, you will benefit from having the travel arrangement in one location for easier referencing and retrieval. 

Your travel plan is usually placed in the front of the folder full of your tickets, brochures, and confirmation receipts – this is also a good source to get information on the road. 

Although the information includes the travel plan for yourself or other people might contain different items, the basic structure was usually still retained. You can use your best itinerary templates.

Table of Contents

Benefits of Using an Itinerary Template

Traveling is an adventure! But planning for it can sometimes be stressful. That’s where a  travel itinerary template  can be your best friend.

• All-In-One Location:  Say Goodbye to Chaos!

Do you have flight details in your email, hotel bookings on an app, and excursion times on a sticky note? Stop the madness! An itinerary template puts all these details in one simple place. Just open it up, and you’ll know what’s happening next.

• Easy to Use:  No Tech Skills Needed!

You don’t have to be a computer genius to use an itinerary template. Most of it comes with clear fields for you to fill in. Just type your flight time here your hotel name there, and you’re done! It’s like filling out a fun quiz.

• Be Organized:  Know What Comes After What

The best part about being organized is knowing what’s next. You see your trip like a story when you put your plans in an itinerary template. First, this happens, then that. You can enjoy the trip more when you know what’s coming up.

• Shareable:  Keep Everyone in the Loop

Traveling with family or friends? Send them the itinerary template! That way, everyone knows the plan. If someone asks, “What time is dinner?” tell them to check the itinerary!

• Free:  More Money for Fun Stuff!

The best things in life are free. Well, most travel itinerary templates are free, too! That means you can save cash for fun stuff like snacks, souvenirs, or an extra special adventure!

• Time-Saving:  Quick Changes Made Easy

Plans change. Maybe it rains, and you can’t go to the beach. With an itinerary template, it’s super easy to swap things around. Just a few clicks, and you have a new plan!

• Keeps You On Track:  No More Missing Out

Need to catch a flight or need to remember a dinner reservation? With an itinerary, you’ll get reminders. It’s like having a helpful friend who says, “Hey, time to go!”

• Peace of Mind:  Worry Less, Enjoy More!

When you’re organized, you feel calmer. That means you can enjoy your trip more and less worrying about it.

Are you ready to try an  itinerary template ? Trust us, it will make your next trip so much easier! ????

Essential Elements in a Travel Itinerary

So you’re convinced that a travel itinerary template is a good idea. Great! But what should you include in it? Don’t fret; here’s a list of the  key things to put in your travel plan .

• Title and Dates: What’s the Trip For?

Start with a striking title that sums up your trip. Are you going on a “Summer Adventure in Hawaii” or a “Weekend Getaway in Paris”? Include the dates so you always know the timeframe.

• Names: Who’s Going?

If you’re traveling with other people, write down everyone’s name. It’s an easy way for everyone to know they’re looking at the right plan.

• Departure and Arrival: Take-Off and Landing

Include details about when and where you’re starting and ending your journey. Include times, places, and how you’re getting there. Plane? Train? Automobile?

• Transport Info: All Aboard!

Note any flight numbers, train cars, or other key details. It’s also smart to list any reservations and helpful phone numbers in case of delays.

• Lodging: Home Away From Home

Where are you staying? Include the name, address, and check-in/check-out times for each place you sleep.

• Activities: The Fun Stuff!

What’s a trip without cool stuff to do? List all the tours, visits, or shows you plan to attend. Add times and places so you remember.

• Meetings: Can’t-Miss Appointments

Are you mixing a little business with pleasure? Include any meetings or important appointments you have. Who, what, where, and when—it all goes here.

• Meals: Yummy in My Tummy

Planning to eat at that must-try café? Put it in the itinerary.

• Free Time: Do What You Want

It’s your trip, after all! Include some blocks of free time for spontaneous fun.

• Emergency Contacts: Just in Case

Include some emergency contacts, like local hospitals or a trusted friend back home.

• Checklist: Remember!

Add a small list at the end for any last-minute things you need to do or bring. Passport? Snacks? It goes here.

That’s your  travel itinerary essentials  covered! With everything in your template, you’re ready for an awesome, stress-free trip! ????

Tips for Crafting a Useful Travel Itinerary

It isn’t just about jotting down names and places. Here are some tips.

Be Realistic: Time Matters!

Always consider how much time each activity will take. Keep your day manageable. You want time to enjoy the places you visit!

Group Activities by Location: Smart Mapping

Put things that are close to each other on the same day. This way, you spend less time moving and more time doing.

Always Have a Plan B: Be Flexible

Sometimes, things go differently than planned. Maybe it rains, or a place is closed. Have a backup plan, so you’re never stuck with nothing to do.

Check Opening Hours: No Unwanted Surprises

Imagine showing up at a museum you’re excited to visit, only to find it’s closed on Tuesdays. Check opening times in advance to avoid this.

Share It: Keep Everyone in the Loop

If you’re traveling with others, ensure everyone has a copy of the itinerary. You could even make a shared online version.

Local Customs and Laws: When in Rome.

Check for any local customs, rules, or laws you should know about, like dress codes at religious sites.

Remember Time Zones: Sync Up!

If you’re crossing time zones, adjust all your times so you’re always on local time.

Add Some Breathing Room: Take It Easy

Don’t schedule something every minute of every day. You’ll need some downtime to relax and soak it all in.

Include All Confirmation Numbers: Quick Access

For flights, hotels, and activities that require booking, include all confirmation numbers for quick and easy access.

Double-Check All Details: Be Sure, Be Safe

Before you finalize your itinerary, double-check all times, dates, and reservations.

Print and Digital: Best of Both Worlds

Have both a printed copy and a digital copy available. Technology can fail, and you might only sometimes have Wi-Fi.

Keep it Handy: Easy Access.

Put your itinerary somewhere easy to get to. Save it on your phone or put it in a pocket in your bag.

Free Travel Itinerary Templates

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 01

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 02

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 03

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 04

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 05

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 13

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 14

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 15

Travel Itinerary Template Word

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 06

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 07

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 08

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 09

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 10

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 11

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 12

Easy to Use

One of the best things about using a Word template is its simplicity. You don’t have to be a computer wizard to figure it out!

Customizable

Word lets you change fonts and colors and even add pictures. Make your template  truly your own .

You can open a Word document on almost any device. It’s super  easy to share  with family or travel buddies, too.

Pre-made Templates

Word offers a variety of  ready-to-use templates . Just plug in your details, and you’re good to go!

Checklist Features

You can add  checkboxes  next to each activity or place. It feels so good to check them off as you go!

Safe and Secure

You can easily  lock the document  to keep your travel plans private.

Great for Printing

Word documents  print beautifully . It is a great option if you like having a paper copy of your plans.

How to Use It

• Open Word and choose a blank document or a pre-made template.
• Fill in your travel details like flights, hotels, and fun stuff to do.
• Add any  extra notes  or  checklists .
• Save it, print it, or share it via email.

Tips for Using Word Templates

• Spell-check : Always run a spell-check to avoid any errors.
• Save Often : Keep up your hard work. Save your doc often!
• Backup : Email a copy to yourself or save it in the cloud.

Using a Word template for your travel itinerary is a smart way to keep all your plans in one place. Give it a try for your next trip!

Free Travel Itinerary Templates Excel

Do you like spreadsheets?  Excel templates  offer even more ways to stay organized. You can sort your plans, filter them, and find what you need fast!

If you’ve been using regular Word documents or even pen and paper for your travel plans, it’s time to  upgrade to Excel ! Here’s why and how:

Easy to Edit: Change On-the-Go

Excel allows you to add or remove items quickly. If your plans change, delete a row or add a new one!

Sort and Filter: Find What You Need

Say you want to see all your flight details at once. Excel lets you sort and filter to find what you’re looking for in a snap.

Color Codes: Make It Pretty and Practical

Blue for sightseeing and red for meals. It makes it easier to understand your day at a glance.

Formulas: Count the Hours

You can use simple Excel formulas to add how much time each day’s activities will take.

Shareable: Easy to Send

Excel files are easily shared by email or cloud services like Google Drive. You can also password-protect it if it has sensitive data.

Collaborative: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Everyone can add their activities or notes in the same Excel sheet if you’re traveling with others. It’s a team itinerary!

Tabs for Days: One File, Many Uses

You can use different tabs for different parts of your trip. One tab for flights, another for hotels, and so on.

Links and Notes: Extra Info

You can add links to websites or notes with additional information in Excel.

Offline Access: Always Available

Once downloaded, Excel files are available even without internet access, making them reliable and handy.

Templates Galore: Start with a Bang

It is lots of pre-made Excel itinerary templates available online. It can give you a head start and create planning even quicker.

Itinerary Templates Excel

Itinerary Templates Free

travel itinerary template

Vacation itinerary template

Disney Itinerary Templates

Free business travel itinerary template excel

Weekly Itinerary Template

Birthday Itinerary Template

Daily itinerary planner

Program Itinerary Template

Meeting Itinerary Template

Travel Itinerary Template PDF

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 16

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 17

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 18

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 19

Free Travel Itinerary Templates 20

Itinerary Template – Free Travel Itinerary Templates

Business Tour – Free Travel Itinerary Templates

Business Travel Diary- Free Travel Itinerary Templates

Stable and Consistent

One of the biggest perks of using a PDF is that it looks the  same  on every device. No surprises!

Easy to Share

PDF files are  super easy to send  in an email or message. They can be opened on almost any gadget.

No Accidental Changes

Once you save it, it stays that way. You can’t accidentally mess up your plans!

Universal Acceptance

Almost all businesses can open and read PDFs. Most people can easily check your plans if you need to show them.

Password Protection

PDFs can be  locked  with a password. Your plans stay  safe and private .

Fantastic for Printing

If you like paper copies, PDFs print out  just how they look on screen .

• Make your plans in any software that can be saved as a PDF.
• Double-check all your details and  spelling .
• Save or ‘print’ your plans as a PDF file.
• Share or print your  snazzy  new PDF itinerary!

Tips for Using PDF Templates

• Read-Only : Remember, most PDFs can’t be easily changed. Make sure all your info is correct before you save it.
• Compatibility : Always ensure the people you share the PDF with can open it.
• Document Size : PDFs with lots of pictures can get big. Keep an eye on the file size if you need to email it.

A PDF travel itinerary template is  rock-solid  for keeping your travel plans organized and easily accessible. It’s a popular option, especially if you want a file that stays how you made it.

Common Mistakes in Using Travel Itinerary Templates

Skipping the Details : One of the most common errors is  filling in all the blanks . It can lead to confusion during your trip.

Ignoring Time Zones : Many must remember to account for time zone changes. It can mess up your plans.

Overstuffing the Itinerary : It’s tempting to pack your day full of activities. But this leaves  no room for rest or unexpected events .

Forgetting to Share : If you’re traveling with others,  forgetting to share  the itinerary can make things hard for everyone.

Not Checking Operation Hours : Imagine going to a museum only to find it’s closed. Always  check the working hours  of places you want to visit.

Skipping Backup Plans : Weather changes. Plans fall through. Having  no Plan B  can ruin your day.

Bad Formatting : If your itinerary is hard to read, it’s almost useless. Make sure you use  clear and easy-to-read formats .

Not Updating : Sometimes plans change.  Only updating your template  can make sure you get all the things.

Ignoring Local Customs and Laws : Failing to account for local customs or laws can be embarrassing and sometimes problematic. Always do your  basic homework .

Not Double-Checking : A small mistake in flight numbers or hotel booking IDs can be a big hassle. Always  double-check your details .

Avoiding these common mistakes can make your itinerary a powerful tool for a smooth and enjoyable trip!

Traveling is more fun when you’re organized. Using a  travel itinerary template  can help a lot! So why wait? Download a free template today!

Additional Resources

Want to know more? Click the links below for free templates and helpful travel apps.

• Free Itinerary Templates
• Best Travel Apps

Happy traveling! ????

What Is a Travel Itinerary Template?

A travel itinerary template is like a  map for your trip . It shows where you need to go, what you’ll do, and when you’ll do it.

Where Can I Find Free Travel Itinerary Templates?

You can find free templates online, in apps, Excel, or Word. Some travel websites also offer them for  free .

Should My Template Be Detailed or Broad?

That depends on you! Some folks like a  minute-by-minute plan , while others want just the  big events  listed. Choose what works for you.

Can I Use the Same Template for Different Trips?

Yes, you can! Just  change the details  to fit your new trip.

What Should I Include in My Template?

Include key info like  flights, hotels, and activities . Remember  small but important details  like transport from the airport to the hotel.

Do I Need to Print My Itinerary?

Only sometimes. You could keep it on your phone. But a printed copy is good, just in case your phone  runs out of juice .

How Many Copies Should I Make?

It’s a good idea to have  more than one copy . Leave one with a friend or family member back home, keep one with you, and maybe have a  digital copy .

Can I Add Last-Minute Changes?

Yes, you can. Just  update all your copies  so you’re not working off old info.

What Do I Do If My Plans Change Mid-Trip?

No problem! Just  update your template . You can do it with a printed copy or update the digital one on your device.

Is It OK to Leave Free Time in My Plan?

Absolutely! It’s your trip, after all. Free time lets you  explore  or  rest  as you feel like it.

Related Articles

Great 16 Plus Amazing Free Picnic Flyer Templates

20+ Timeline Templates Free (PowerPoint, Word, PSD, Excel)

About the author.

Need Help Planning? 1-888-307-8401

Alaska Cruisetours

Alaska cruisetours overview.

View the charts below to help you select the Cruisetour that best fits your individual interests and vacation plans. Each chart shows the duration of each Cruisetour, the activities included, and the cities visited. Cruisetours are numbered and lettered with “A” for tours that occur after the cruise, or “B” for tours that occur before the cruise.

Alaska Cruisetour Overview

• 2025 Cruisetours
• 2024 Cruisetours

Denali Express Cruisetour 11A

Included Experiences — Denali Natural History Tour, Railway Talkeetna to Anchorage

2025 Departures — May 9, May 23, Jun 6, Jun 20, Jul 4, Jul 18, Aug 1, Aug 15, Aug 29

Talkeetna Treasures Cruisetour 1A

Included Experiences — Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, Denali Natural History Tour, Rail Anchorage to Talkeetna

Talkeetna Treasures Cruisetour 1B

This itinerary is conducted in reverse order of Tour 1A and offered as a pre-cruise option.

2025 Departures — May 27, Jun 10, Jun 24, Jul 8, Jul 22, Aug 5, Aug 19, Sep 2

Alaska Gold Rush Adventure Cruisetour 2A

Included Experiences — Denali Natural History Tour, Rail Denali to Fairbanks, Fairbanks City Tour, Gold Dr

Alaska Gold Rush Adventure Cruisetour 2B

This itinerary is conducted in reverse order of Tour 2A and offered as a pre-cruise option.

Alaska Wildlife Encounter Cruisetour 3A

Included Experiences — Alaska Sealife Center, Denali Natural History Tour, Wildlife Conservation Center

Alaska Wildlife Encounter Cruisetour 3B

This itinerary is conducted in reverse order of Tour 3A and offered as a pre-cruise option.

2025 Departures — May 26, Jun 9, Jun 23, Jul 7, Jul 21, Aug 4, Aug 18, Sep 1

Majestic Tundra Explorer Cruisetour 4A

Included Experiences — Tundra Wilderness Tour, Fairbanks City Tour, Riverboat Discovery Cruise

Majestic Tundra Explorer Cruisetour 4B

This itinerary is conducted in reverse order of Tour 4A and offered as a pre-cruise option.

Alaska Mountain Medley Cruisetour 5A

Included Experiences — Alaska Sealife Center, Denali Natural History Tour, Rail Anchorage to Talkeetna

Alaska Mountain Medley Cruisetour 5B

This itinerary is conducted in reverse order of Tour 5A and offered as a pre-cruise option.

2025 Departures — May 25, Jun 8, Jun 22, Jul 6, Jul 20, Aug 3, Aug 17, Aug 31

Great National Parks Expedition Cruisetour 6A

Included Experiences — Kenai Fjords National Parks Cruise, Alaska Native Heritage Center, Riverboat Discovery Cruise, and more

Great National Parks Expedition Cruisetour 6B

This itinerary is conducted in reverse order of Tour 6A and offered as a pre-cruise option.

Grand Heartland Adventure Cruisetour 7A

Included Experiences — Resurrection Bay Wildlife Cruise, Anchorage City Tour, Anchorage Museum, and more.

Grand Heartland Adventure Cruisetour 7B

This itinerary is conducted in reverse order of Tour 7A and offered as a pre-cruise option.

2025 Departures — May 24, Jun 7, Jun 21, Jul 5, Jul 19, Aug 2, Aug 16, Aug 30

Great Frontier Expedition Cruisetour 8A

Included Experiences — Alaska Native Heritage Center, Tundra Wilderness Tour, Fairbanks City Tour, and more.

Great Frontier Expedition Cruisetour 8B

This itinerary is conducted in reverse order of Tour 8A and offered as a pre-cruise option.

Tastes Of Alaska Cruisetour 9A

Included Experiences — Seward Dock Walk & Salmon Tasting, Alaska Native Heritage Center & Eskimo Ice Cream, more.

Tastes Of Alaska Cruisetour 9B

This itinerary is conducted in reverse order of Tour 9A and offered as a pre-cruise option.

Homer Discovery And Heartland Wildlife Cruisetour 10A

Included Experiences — Homer Dock WalkIslands & Oceans Center, Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, Tundra Wilderness Tour and more.

Homer Discovery And Heartland Wildlife Cruisetour 10B

Denali express 11a.

2024 Departures — May 10, May 24, Jun 7, Jun 21, Jul 5, Jul 19, Aug 2, Aug 16, Aug 30

2024 Departures — May 28, Jun 11, Jun 25, Jul 9, Jul 23, Aug 6, Aug 20, Sep 3

2024 Departures — May 27, Jun 10, Jun 24, Jul 8, Jul 22, Aug 5, Aug 19, Sep 2

2024 Departures — May 10*, May 24, Jun 7, Jun 21, Jul 5, Jul 19, Aug 2, Aug 16, Aug 30 *May 10 includes Denali Natural History Tour in place of Tundra Wilderness Tour

2024 Departures — May 26, Jun 9, Jun 23, Jul 7, Jul 21, Aug 4, Aug 18, Sep 1

The Great National Parks Expedition Cruisetour 6A

The great national parks expedition cruisetour 6b.

2024 Departures — May 25, Jun 8, Jun 22, Jul 6, Jul 20, Aug 3, Aug 17, Aug 31

The Great Frontier Expedition 8A

The great frontier expedition 8b, authentic tastes of alaska 9a, authentic tastes of alaska 9b.