How to Plan a Last-Minute Vacation
Everyone's had
their vacation planned for months ... well everyone but you! Fortunately, you can
still enjoy some time in paradise, if you're willing to put in just a little
time and effort.
Take the road less
traveled.
The first step in planning a
last-minute getaway is finding a great spot to vacation. When time is short, flexibility
is key. Here are some tips!
·
Consider "off-peak" destinations.
For example, summer may be a good time to visit major U.S. cities that
typically host conventions during the fall, or a resort town that is popular
with tourists during the winter. Hotels want to fill empty rooms and may offer
extra perks, lower rates, or package deals.
·
If you're flying, search for flights at more
than one airport. If you're willing to depart from any airport near you or
arrive at any airport relatively close to your destination, you'll have more
options and a better chance of snagging a lower-cost flight. Also consider
flying during off-peak hours or taking non-direct flights.
Getting advice is
invaluable, and who better to ask than people who have been where you're going?
·
Visit travel websites and forums where you
can view ratings for attractions, hotel and restaurant reviews, and even
suggested itineraries posted by local residents and tourists. You can also
purchase or download travel guides.
·
Consider working with a travel agent who has access
to last-minute package deals or special airfares, and in-depth knowledge of
vacation spots.
·
Once you arrive at your destination, ask
questions. Most major vacation destinations have a visitor's bureau staffed
with knowledgeable people just waiting to give you free advice, maps, and even
help finding accommodations (sometimes at special discounts). Front-desk staff
or hotel concierges are also able to recommend restaurants and sight-seeing
options.
Saving time is a top priority when planning a
last-minute vacation--here are a few suggestions that can help you get on the
road quickly.
·
Make a
packing list, and pack most of your items ahead of time. Make sure you have
address tags on your luggage before you get to the airport.
·
Pick a
spot to keep essential (but easy to forget) items such as your wallet or purse,
keys, airline tickets, passports, cell phone (and charger), and prescription
drugs so that they will be in one place in case you're in a hurry the day you
depart.
·
If you're
flying, confirm your reservations. Today most
airlines allow on-line check-in’s 24 hours in advance and also have free applications
that you can download to your Smartphone or tablet device – just one more way to make your
life easier!
Enjoy
the ride.
Remember, a vacation is about relaxation--not
perfection. The little planning you've had time for will help smooth the way,
but inevitably there will be bumps in the road. Take them in stride, and you'll
be well on your way to an enjoyable last-minute vacation.
Consider a Pen Air FCU low-rate Platinum MasterCard®
for your last-minute vacation expenses and enjoy CU reward points on every
dollar you spend! With no annual fee and MasterCard® SecureCodeTM,
you’ll have the benefits and security you need to kick-back and relax on your
vacation.
Use It.
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