Usually when you plan a trip you have plenty of time to get everything sorted and booked. You often spend a few weeks deciding on where to go and ear mark a few hotels and flight complies you’re interested in before settling on the right on for you. And you get the chance to drum up that excitement and go holiday shopping before packing and repacking your case ahead of the big day. But when you’re booking a last minute trip all that excitement comes crashing down on you all at once and it can be so easy to forget certain things in the whirlwind of planning, packing and going.
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Accommodation
Make sure you have picked the right hotel – and don’t just pick the first one you see! Just because you’re not going to be searching for hours on end doesn’t mean that you can’t shop around for the best deal. Check out last minute and comparison sites, and make sure you do some research before settling on the right one for you. Look at reviews, like the ones for The Hotel Lancaster, and check distances between where you’re staying and local amenities so that you know whether you need to rent a car or if everything is walkable for you.
Travel
Flights or train? Road trip or cruise? Are you renting a car there or taking your own? Travel goes beyond simply getting to your destination, you need to figure out how you’re getting around once you’re there. And on top of that you should also look into getting to the airport or docks; are you taking your own car and leaving it in the parking lot, are you getting a cab or can a family member or friend take you (and pick you up when you get back?) This saves you from getting stuck and paying exorbitant prices super last minute.
Packing
Online shopping will forever be your best friend. If you don’t need anything new then great – but if so, hit that next day delivery and make sure that you have covered the basics. You can get along fine with one pair of jeans, but running out of underwear isn’t an option. And think smart when it comes to swimwear – yes those cut outs look great, but the patchwork tan on your chest might not be so flattering. Make a list of needs including sunscreen and medication, and make sure you actually have what you think you already have. Don’t just assume you have a pair of sandals and then realize on the day of travelling that you don’t.
Money
If you need to exchange money don’t wait until you’re in the new country- chances are that you will need cash before you can get somewhere to change what you have. If you’re booking last minute then you don’t have time to wait and see what the exchange rates are doing, so just hurry up and do it before you forget. Consider a prepaid card which acts like a credit card – it saves you from carrying around a load of cash and can save you from accruing any abroad fees if you use your actual credit card in another country.
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