I’ve traveled extensively over the course of the years. Checking off more than 60 countries and still barely scratching the surface of what’s out there. It’s hard to believe there are 195 countries around the world which means I have a long way to go before I even see half of what the world has to offer. With so many choices, planning an international trip can feel daunting and if you are new to international travel it may even be paralyzing. It’s no wonder roughly 42% of Americans have never traveled abroad. And for Black Americans that number is higher. Between the different languages and cultures, many people feel that international travel is just too complicated. If there was a way to simplifying travel planning without breaking the bank, you’d see more people traveling. I’m here to help clear the fog and get you out there.
There are too many places to go and not enough time to figure it out. If you are looking at social media, every place looks amazing. So how do you narrow down your choices and actually go somewhere…anywhere? In this post, I’ll share my tried and tested strategies for selecting a destination and getting the trip off of the dream board and into reality.
How to Simplify Your Travel Planning Process
I could spend weeks looking at a map, watching other traveler stories and debating in my brain where to go next. I’m awestruck by people that claim to have been to every country in the world. It must have taken some serious time and planning to make that happen. Most of us are lucky to see three countries in a lifetime. Mostly because we have no idea, where or how to start. If the planning has you stuck year after year, I have a few tips to help you clear the clutter, organize your planning and break down the overwhelming number of options to get you closer to your dream trip.
Define Your Travel Goals
This might seem obvious but just saying I want to start traveling without any intention or goals behind it is like trying to separate sand on the beach. It’s unlikely you’ll make any noticeable progress.
Understanding what you want to get out of your trip is the first step to narrowing down your options. Ask yourself if you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, culture, food or something else. Don’t just simply go someplace because everyone else is going there.
Write down the top three experiences you want, and use those to guide your decision-making. For example, if you prioritize cultural immersion, destinations like Ghana or Morocco might rise to the top of your list. If you want an experience in nature, Kenya or Costa Rica might come out on top.
The biggest mistake I see travelers make is trying to see and do too much. They treat one country as if they need to see everything there is and get completely overwhelmed. I shared a few words of advice in a recent social media post that might help you think about travel a bit differently.
Consider Your Budget First, Then Pick Your Destination
There is nothing worse than getting to a destination and then realizing it’s way out of your budget. Some places scream luxury. From guest rooms over the ocean to high rises that make you feel like you can touch the sky. These places have it all and if you are worried about your spending, you simply shouldn’t go.
Your budget will significantly affect your destination options and travel experience. The truth is certain destinations are more affordable due to currency exchange rates or lower cost of living. While others will make you question all of your life choices.
To get it right, your budget should consider all in costs. Flights, hotels, dining, transportation and entertainment. And while you can find ways to save money in all of these categories, it will certainly impact your overall experience if you are looking for McDonald’s everyday in Dubai. And there are some places where cost cutting might not be the best idea. For example, I have no desire to do a safari in Africa on a tight budget. There are some experiences where your safety might cost you a little bit more but is totally worth it.
Even with luxury experiences, you can still save. If you have a tight budget, consider traveling during shoulder season when prices are lower and selecting destinations that are more budget friendly like Southeast Asia. Research 3-4 countries that align with your budget and compare costs for flights, accommodations, and daily expenses. Then choose from there. Check out my blog How to Have a Luxury Vacation on a Budget for additional insights.
Narrow Your Options by Season and Weather
Weather plays a major role in choosing the best time to visit a destination. I don’t know many folks who knowingly choose to travel to a destination to experience a monsoon. Not only does it make for a crappy vacation, it can also be dangerous. I shared details in an earlier blog focused on Staying Safe During a Natural Disaster.
Instead of heading to Greece during peak summer heat, try heading south of the equator to places like Brazil. Those countries will be experiencing their fall/winter during the exact period. You’ll get great beaches and amazing weather.
Once you’ve created a short list of destinations based on your budget and the experience you’d like to have, research when they experience their best (and worst) weather. Not many people are interest in seeing Bali during rainy season or experience extreme summer heat in Dubai.
Focus on Experiences, Not Just a Country
Sometimes focusing on the experiences you want rather than the country helps make your decision easier. For example, if wine tasting is high on your list, then pick places known for their wines like Italy, France or Argentina or even New Zealand.
Certain experiences like scuba diving or specific festivals are associated with a specific destination. Doing a drive through Lion Country safari in Florida is not the same as doing a safari in Kenya or Tanzania.
Make a list of 2-3 activities or events you want to experience in your lifetime and pick destinations that offer it. You’ve always dreamed of seeing the Northern Lights, head to Norway or Iceland. If you’re really into food try Italy or Thailand. Whatever you do, pick a place that fits with your story.
Use Travel Apps and Tools to Organize Your Research
Once you have a few ideas in mind, it’s time to narrow down your selection even more. You’ll likely be searching all over the place to find the best options. If you’re like me, you have scribbled notes everywhere.
There is nothing worse than reading the same comments about the same hotel that you’ve already seen 100 times. There are plenty of apps and websites designed to help you compare travel options and stay organized.
Tools like Google Flights, Hopper and Skyscanner can help you filter options based on your criteria like cheapest option for flights. Additionally, you can use Pinterest or travel blogs like this one to create “idea boards” for each destination.
My Perspective
By completing each one of these items, you are one step closer to finally booking that international flight. The one thing that keeps me grounded is knowing I can always revisit countries that I love and find new interesting experiences. Once in lifetime doesn’t have to be once in a lifetime. In fact, thinking of travel planning that way only makes it more overwhelming.
Breaking down your travel planning into steps will reduce overwhelm and increase your excitement. So start with your travel goals to narrow down the options. Then solidify your budget so you know how much trip you can afford. Finally, decide what experience you want to have and narrow down your options from there. Before you know it, you’ll be checking experiences off your list and adding new ones sometimes in the same location.
FAQs About Simplifying Travel Planning for First-Time International Travelers
How do I know which destination is best for my first international trip?
The best destination for your first trip will depend on factors like your budget, interests, and comfort level with international travel. Start by narrowing down what type of experience you want, then look for destinations that align with those goals.
Is it better to plan everything in advance or leave room for spontaneity?
It’s a good idea to plan your main flights, accommodations, and activities in advance, but leave room for spontaneous moments once you arrive. This way, you have a structure, but you’re flexible enough to take advantage of unexpected opportunities.
Discover more from TwoBlackTravelers
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
