If you are anything like me, you can easily get overwhelmed when trying to choose your next travel destination. With so many amazing places to see, how can you narrow it down to just one or two (or even three or four depending on time)? It can feel like if you only choose one you might miss out on something even more spectacular…aka, major FOMO.
I’ve been there and I get it! But there is a way to reduce the overwhelm so you can choose your next destination with (relative) ease. I’ve put together a complete guide to all things to consider when choosing a destination. Think of it as a toolkit for destination planning. If you take a little time to consider each area below, you will find the right destination for your next trip.
Sounds good? Let’s dive in…
Understanding Your Travel Style
Before browsing destination options, it’s important to understand your unique travel style. Are you an adventure enthusiast seeking adrenaline-pumping activities? Or perhaps you prefer serene beach retreats or immersive cultural experiences. Not sure which or can’t define it? Here are several steps to help you identify and define your unique travel style:
- Reflect on Past Experiences
Start by reflecting on your past travel experiences. Consider the destinations you’ve visited, the activities you’ve enjoyed, and the aspects of travel that have resonated with you the most. Think about memorable moments, favorite destinations, and the overall vibe of your previous trips to identify patterns and preferences.
- Identify Your Motivations
Explore the underlying motivations and intentions behind your desire to travel. Are you seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, cultural immersion, adventure and excitement, or personal growth and exploration? Understanding your motivations can help you pinpoint the types of experiences and destinations that fulfill your travel aspirations.
- Consider Your Interests and Passions
Take stock of your interests, hobbies, and passions outside of travel. Whether you’re a history buff, food enthusiast, nature lover, art aficionado, or adrenaline junkie, your passions can influence the types of destinations and activities that resonate with you. Consider how you can integrate your interests into your travel experiences to create meaningful and fulfilling adventures.
- Assess Your Comfort Zone
Reflect on your comfort level with different travel experiences and environments. Are you open to stepping out of your comfort zone and trying new things, or do you prefer familiar surroundings and routines? Does the idea of visiting certain countries terrify you? Consider factors such as travel pace, accommodation preferences, and cultural immersion to gauge your comfort zone and tailor your travel style accordingly.
- Evaluate Your Budget and Resources
Assess your budget, time constraints, and resources available for travel. Consider how these factors influence your travel choices and preferences. Are you more inclined towards budget-friendly backpacking adventures, luxurious escapes, or somewhere in between? Do you only have a weekend available? If so you may not want to waste a full day traveling. Understanding your financial and logistical constraints can help you narrow down your options and plan accordingly.
- Explore Different Travel Styles
Familiarize yourself with different travel styles and philosophies to gain insights into your preferences. I don’t just mean luxury vs. budget or adventure vs. relaxing on a beach. Consider new and unique experiences such as food tours or in-depth cooking training, language learning, wine or beer in-depth learning, volunteer tourism, cultural immersion, or even just pursuing your favorite hobby (love baseball? What stadium have you always wanted to see? Or simply plan around a favorite event or game coming up).
- Be Open to Experimentation and Evolution
Keep in mind that your travel style may evolve as you gain new experiences, interests, and perspectives. Be open to experimentation and exploration, trying out different travel styles, destinations, and experiences to see what suits you best. Embrace the journey of self-discovery and self-awareness as you continue to refine and define your travel style.
I did this a few summers ago and came away with an amazing upgrade to my worldview. I posted my experience in this YouTube video.
Budget Considerations
When planning a travel destination, budget considerations are important because they can significantly impact your enjoyment of your trip. Knowing how much you have to spend can help narrow down destinations within financial reach vs. those that might be a touch too far. Here are a few things to consider:
- Transportation Costs
How much is it going to cost you to get there? And once there, how much will it cost to get around? If you have a small budget, some destinations may be off-limits due to flight costs unless you can find the right deal. Also, depending on where you go, the cost of getting around or to the final destination may be more than you are willing to spend. Consider what these costs might be when looking at each potential destination.
- Accommodation Expenses
Some cities are just plain cheaper than others. And, if on a budget but still looking at the more expensive cities, you’ll also want to consider if lodging in your price range puts you in a dangerous neighborhood or at a level of hotel that you are not comfortable with. Be sure you can afford the type of lodging you want in a neighborhood you feel comfortable staying in.
You may want to research safety in that city as well. I’ve had people from overseas come to Los Angeles thinking they can stay anywhere they can afford. While technically true, there are some neighborhoods no visitors should stay in.
- Food and Dining
Food expenses can add up quickly while traveling, especially if dining out frequently. Budget for meals based on your eating habits and preferences, whether you plan to cook your meals, dine at local eateries, or indulge in fine dining experiences. Research dining options in your destination, including street food stalls, markets, and affordable restaurants, to sample local cuisine without overspending.
- Activities and Entertainment
When looking at destinations, what types of things do you want to see and do when there? Consider any sightseeing tours, attractions, cultural activities, and entertainment options in that destination. Maybe even research admission fees, guided tours, and activity costs in advance to estimate what it will cost.
- Currency Exchange Rates and Banking Fees
Be sure to consider exchange rates if going abroad. If your currency is weaker compared to your destination currency, your trip might cost way more than you think. You’ll also want to consider whether or not you want to deal with foreign currency (and where you can get it while abroad).
Time Constraints and Seasonality
When choosing a travel destination, time constraints and seasonality are important factors to consider as they can significantly impact your overall travel experience. Here are a few things to consider:
- Available Time Frame
For shorter vacations, opt for destinations closer to home or those requiring minimal travel time. But if you have ample time at your disposal, consider more distant locales or multi-destination itineraries.
- Seasonal Considerations
When are you going to travel? Will it be the rainy season? Hot season? Hurricane season? What will the temperature be in general? Consider these factors when choosing your destination. Not only will this impact your stay (if you’ll be miserable or not) but also your travel. If it’s hurricane or snow season, you may have canceled or delayed flight or get snowed in, etc.
Also consider the tourist season, whether you would be there during high or off-season. This will impact price, crowds, and potentially how hard it will be to get a room or into attractions. Attractions may be closed as well in the off-season.
- Special Events and Festivals
Are there any special events or festivals (or even business conferences) happening while you are there? This may impact hotel availability and costs. Or it may seal the deal for you if it’s an event you’ve always wanted to attend.
Bucket List Destinations vs. Hidden Gems
The travel landscape is peppered with iconic landmarks and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Consider whether you’re drawn to popular bucket list destinations or prefer off-the-beaten-path adventures. While renowned attractions offer cultural significance and unparalleled experiences, lesser-known destinations often provide authenticity, tranquility, and unique encounters with local culture. Finding a balance between must-see landmarks and undiscovered treasures will help you craft the perfect vacation.
Personal Interests and Passions
I think this goes without saying but your passions and hobbies can help you choose your next destination. Are you a history buff? Maybe explore some ancient ruins. A foodie? Indulge in culinary delights. Underwater basket weaver? Find the best darn underwater basket location you can. Tailor your destination choice to accommodate your hobbies and curiosities. Consider attending festivals, workshops, or events aligned with your interests to enhance your travel experience.
Accessibility and Travel Logistics
Practical considerations such as transportation options, visa requirements, and travel logistics can significantly impact destination selection. Research the accessibility of your chosen destination, including flight availability, visa regulations, and ease of navigation within the country. Factor in travel time, layovers, and potential language barriers when planning your itinerary.
Health and Safety Precautions
Please don’t head into a new city without considering safety. As I mentioned before with visitors in Los Angeles, there are places you shouldn’t go (unless being in dangerous locales is your travel style). Research your potential destinations so you know if there are any health or safety considerations. Stay informed about travel advisories, vaccination requirements, and health infrastructure in your chosen destination. Evaluate factors such as crime rates, political stability, and emergency services to ensure a secure and stress-free travel experience.
And no matter where you go, get travel insurance! Hopefully, you won’t need it but you will certainly be happy you have it if you do need it.
Consulting Travel Resources and Reviews
Once you’ve gone through each of the areas above, you should have a better idea of the type of destination you are looking for. At this point, my favorite next step is searching on YouTube, travel blogs, word of mouth, and travel consultants. Each offers a wealth of information about every destination on Earth.
Of these, my all-time favorite place to research is YouTube. There are videos about anything and everything you can imagine on YouTube. Considering a specific city? Someone has been there and made a video. Need to know about etiquette and safety? Someone has made a video. Want a walk-through of a certain hotel or an airport? Someone has made a video. It’s my #1 favorite place to research destinations.
Conclusion
Choosing your next travel destination is a deeply personal and rewarding endeavor, offering endless possibilities for exploration, discovery, and self-discovery. By considering factors such as travel style, budget, time constraints, personal interests, and practical considerations, you can craft a transformative and enriching travel experience perfectly tailored to your preferences. Whether you’re embarking on a soul-searching solo adventure, a romantic getaway, or a family vacation, let your wanderlust guide you to new horizons and unforgettable memories.