Family Travel

Having a Plan. Critical for Weekend Getaways.

Contributing Author September 16, 2021 1


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A weekend away is a great way to explore places you’ve yet to visit and a welcome break from the stresses of modern life. Whether you are booking into a hotel, cabins in Tennessee or staying in a guesthouse, the journey is the reward. But there are at least a few things you’ll want to consider in planning a successful trek.

a plate of food on a table
Does your vacation rental have a grill? A Summer must for Jake. (Grilled dinner. Catskill, NY)

Make a list…or lists.

It’s a good idea to have a list of the things you’ll need before going away. For example, if you plan on cooking your food outdoors, don’t forget to pack pots and pans. You don’t want to be stuck miles from home only to find you’ve left your favorite mug behind. Be sure to double-check with your friends that you’ve packed everything together, too.

Modhop founder Jake Redman tells me that he’s learned the hard way how making a comprehensive lists are important. “I have lists for different parts of each trip. I’ve left passports in a resort safe and missed flights, so now it’s on my list called ‘Leaving the Hotel’.”

Getting there and getting around.

What will you need to pack if this is by car, and what will you need for possible emergencies? If you’re traveling by car, it’s good to plan out your route. Take into account how long the trip will take and check where the closest gas stations are along the way – driving long distances can be time-consuming and expensive if you get stuck on the side of the road. If possible, go to a large car park at each stop plan the next segment of your trip before setting off on the road again.

If this is by public transport, which bus or train should you take? Do they operate at night or only during the day? Again, you’ll want to know where the closest stop is to your accommodation and check for any restrictions (for example, does your pass let you take your bike on the train?). Map out your route before leaving so that you know where to go if you do get lost.

What type of luggage allowance do you have if it’s by plane (check your airline’s website), and how much time should you allow before your flight? Ensure you check all the operating hours for anything you might need at your destination, such as the local tourist information center.

a boy and girl playing in sand
Is there a place for kids to play at your destination or on the way? (North Loop Playground: Minneapolis, MN)

 

What to Pack and What to do.

When packing your luggage, remember the importance of keeping comfortable night and day. For example, you aren’t sleeping if you take a hard-core rock climbing backpack and nothing suitable for sleep. Make sure you know what the weather will be like where you’re going and pack accordingly – this is especially important if you’re going somewhere that isn’t a well-known tourist destination.

If the purpose of your trip is to go rock climbing, make sure to pack extra supplies – not only for yourself but also for anyone else who may be coming along. You don’t want to turn up and find out someone forgot to bring a sleeping bag or something equally as important.

Once on your trip, how far is it from the nearest town or city, and what attractions are nearby? All these things should be considered before planning a weekend away.

Once you’re there, make sure you explore your surroundings and take advantage of all the activities available. The last thing you want is to be raining or for a local attraction to be closed due to an unforeseen circumstance. If necessary, plan several trips away during the year so that you stay entertained and get everything out of your trip that you possibly can.

Don’t get Stuck!

Make sure there are enough funds in your bank account for the trip back! It’s also wise to know exactly where the nearest train station or bus stop is so that you can get home without getting lost.

Be sure to plan your trip well, and don’t forget the things discussed in this article when you pack. Have a great time away!

What planning tips do you swear by? Let us know in the comments or @modhop on Twitter, Instagram or TikTok.

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Contributing Author

General travel tips and advice on destinations, hotels and flights.

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