Summer is finally here for most of the world, which means one thing – vacation! Have you ever tried to plan the perfect getaway so well that you end up getting even more stressed, though? And maybe you also felt so hassled you just stayed home instead of getting away.

I grew up In Europe, where getting six weeks of paid vacation doesn’t make anyone bat an eye. Taking time off for 4 – 6 weeks is standard, and employers feel the same. I never had to think twice about taking an extended vacation. You feel so refreshed and newly energized after you get back!

Here in the States, it’s a bit different, and many people take ten days or less off work for the entire year to go on vacation, and everybody is so stressed about it!

Here are some of the statements I often hear…

• There is no time for travel
• I am short of money for a trip
• The office needs me, and I have no backup there.

I firmly believe that we have to take time to recharge ourselves, and traveling allows us to do that.

4 Reasons Why It’s Crucial to Take Vacation

1- Reduce Stress

Getting away from it all and not feeling the constant pressure at work or home is worth every penny. Once you are on vacation, you reduce this pressure and give yourself space and time to clear your mind and reduce stress.

2 – Invest in your Health

Life is short. Don’t make it shorter by avoiding vacations. Reports indicate that people who do not take vacations have a 21% higher risk of death from all causes. Sitting for long hours, poor eating habits, little sleep, and high stress are all taking a toll on your health. You can change that on vacation, and it may translate into changing some of your unhealthy habits to healthier ones once you come home.

3 – New Experiences

Traveling to new destinations allows you to experience different cultures and ways of living. Explore new terrain and activities specific to the country you visit. Since I love to eat, eating is such a big part of my vacations, and I love trying new foods. We took a cooking class in Thailand and learned how to prepare authentic Thai cuisine. We even got a cookbook to take with us.

4 – Family time

The people you love, and close relationships are often compromised when you are at home. Work and obligations take over, and sometimes the people we love most take the back seat. You can’t make up for lost time with your family. Traveling together is the best way to build relationships and memories.

6 Simple Steps To Research and Plan Your Vacation

#1 Determine your budget

Don’t forget to factor in travel costs (i.e., airplane or cruise tickets, bus fare), food, clothing, hotel expenses, souvenirs, sports equipment, cameras/film, attraction entry fees, tips, and travel insurance.

#2 Brainstorm vacation ideas

Write down budget-smart things you’d like to include in your vacation: dream places, activities you like, your favorite season or weather, and people you want to visit.

Different types of vacation:

• Luxury
• Comfort = Middle of the road
• Adventure
• Road trips

I love holidays with a single destination in mind and a place to stay for the first few days and to then explore to see what’s next. I booked a round-trip ticket, but the rest is up to whatever happens. And while I prefer to be cost and adventure-effective, my husband’s necessity is a comfortable bed, so we’ve learned to compromise.

#3 Research your options online

Compare travel options between your big desires and your budget by exploring 2-3 potential itineraries. For example, if you dream of surfing in Hawaii, research different islands and find options that fit your budget. A luxury African safari might be a good fit for a travel adventure with animals and an unlimited budget.

Not the planning type? Look into three tour companies that offer what you are looking for – we traveled to Antarctica through Marathon tours, and it was terrific.

#4 Write out your options

Write out your potential itineraries, Include dates and times, and information you’ve found about exciting attractions. Ask your friends about their trips and experiences. You might find out some helpful tips that didn’t even cross your mind.

#5 Book your vacation

Book your vacation. Compare your transportation tickets with your hotel reservation and make sure that they match. Also, be sure that the sights you wish to see will be open during the period. Create a packing list based on your destination’s weather and your preferred activities. I have a detailed agenda for you on my vacation checklist.

#6 Pack Your Bags and last-minute details

And lastly, don’t leave packing until the last minute! Imagine going to Europe for ten days, struggling with organizing work and the house arrangements (like the cleaner and gardener) while you’re away. Get ready a month ahead and plan the before and after trip schedule to avoid feeling so stressed out.

This is where phase two of my vacation checklist comes in handy to help you start earlier rather than later to organize your work and home before you leave.

Ready to get vacation ready? Then check out some of our programs that help you do just that!