It is a quiet morning. You have just finished your coffee when you realise the upcoming long weekend is your chance to escape the monotony. The festive season is here, and you are looking to pack your suitcases and catch the flight. But wait—are you prepared to make the most of your weekend getaway without stressing about last-minute glitches? Well, read further to learn the tips to make the most of your long weekend.
Tips to Plan for a Stress-Free Trip
Here are some foolproof tips to ensure your festive season travel is smooth, enjoyable, and unforgettable:
- Choose Nearby Destinations
If you plan to visit a faraway destination for a short trip with a one-way flight of 10+ hours, cancel your plan immediately. With long flying hours and time spent checking in/out and waiting for your belongings to arrive, you will have almost no time left to explore tourist hotspots. Moreover, travel fatigue might force your body to spend time sleeping in the hotel room.
The best option is to save time and energy by picking destinations within driving distance or short flights. You can consider destinations like Maldives, Thailand, Indonesia, or Mauritius.
- Plan Early
Due to overcrowding during festivals, everything becomes more expensive, from hotel rooms to flight tickets. Avoid waiting until the last minute to decide on a destination, especially when your long weekend is approaching.
Book your hotel and flight tickets well in advance. Suppose you are on a tight budget, with a chance of trip cancellation. In that case, many online travel operators allow you to book your accommodation by paying a small refundable amount. Consider booking through them in case your travel plans change.
- Buy One-way Ticket
You must have heard travel influencers suggest booking round-trip tickets with the same operator to save on flights. Well, this is true most of the time. However, sometimes, booking your outbound flight with one airline and your return flight with another can save money and provide better flight schedules.
- Pack Light
Carrying a couple of large bags makes no sense for a two-three-day trip. Overpacking can also slow you down and make your trip cumbersome.
Research about the weather at your destination and pack accordingly. In cold weather, pack a single overcoat or jacket that goes well with different-coloured jeans or trousers rather than multiple jackets. Remember, winter wear takes up most of the space in your luggage.
Also, pack a small first-aid kit, chargers, and reusable water bottles for convenience.
- Take Direct Flight
Suppose you have booked a festive weekend in the Maldives. Your flight departs from Delhi with a layover in Mumbai. However, upon reaching Mumbai, the weather suddenly changes, and heavy rain begins, causing all flights to be put on standby. In this scenario, not only will your flight be delayed, but there is also a high possibility that you may have to cancel your trip and spend thousands of rupees on a hotel in Mumbai until the weather clears and then book a return flight to Delhi.
To avoid such occurrences, book a direct flight to your intended destination.
- Consider Packages
If you have a tight schedule and don’t want to face any challenges regarding transportation, accommodation, or anything else, consider opting for a trip package from a reputable travel operator. If you encounter any challenges, your operator will help sort out those.
- Stay Connected
Stay connected to have a smooth travel experience. Download travel apps for instant flight updates, weather forecasts, and local transport schedules. Save emergency contacts on your phone as well as accommodation details.
You must also sign up for travel alerts and notifications from airlines and travel agencies to stay informed about any changes or delays.
- Invest in Travel Insurance
Before making bookings, secure your trip with travel insurance. It covers medical expenses, lost or delayed baggage, trip cancellations, and loss of a passport.
For instance, the insurer will cover your medical treatment if you fall ill during your trip. If your condition requires you to extend your stay, the insurer will also cover accommodation and meal expenses.
Moreover, if you lose your passport, the insurer will cover the charges for obtaining a duplicate copy and assist you throughout the process. You can buy this cover easily through the travel insurance app.
Conclusion
A long weekend during the festive season is more than just a break; it is an opportunity to rejuvenate, explore, and celebrate. You can make the most of your getaway by planning ahead, picking the right destination, and staying mindful of your budget and safety.
Start planning now, and when the weekend arrives, you will be all set for a memorable adventure. After all, every journey is a story waiting to be told—make yours worth narrating.
