Christmas is soon upon us. My hubby and I pretty much have the decorations up and only have a few minor touches left to do. Wouldn’t it be great to go on a holiday getaway? I often search online to find great discounts on vacation packages.

When my husband and I search for trips, the first major factor is the budget. One of my favorite sites for destination inspiration is Travel and Leisure magazine. There are five key factors to think about when planning perfect holiday getaway.

1. Climate
Check out the forecasted weather for your destination to make sure that you have packed the appropriate attire.  If the climate is going to be warm, you still my want to carry a jacket, just in case it gets cool at night or at a different elevation. I remember we traveled to Colorado a couple years back. We were at the base of Pike’s Peak and it was in the 60s and sunny. However, when we got to the top of the mountain, it was only 32 degrees and snowy. A much different temperature and coat was needed.

2. What are favorite sites to see
My hubby and I thoroughly research all the sites and points of interest in the places that we are planning to visit.  It is so important to find out the hours that museums or parks are open and if you have to pay fees to get in. Estimate how much time you think you spend at each place and then add in a little extra time just in case you you want to spend an extra few minutes enjoying one of your stops. Being prepared makes the trip much more fun and enjoyable. And you do not have to feel stressed and rushed seeing what you want to see.

3. What mode of transportation do you need or can you get around town on foot
Road trips are so much fun because we are in your own truck. You can get out and stop where you want if the mood suits you. If you fly to your destination, you will have to factor in possibly getting around with public transportation or renting a car. Determine how close your sites are to each other and where you staying. Some cities have cheap trolleys and buses; and often stop at the many of the sites you are planning to visit.

4. Can we stay at a Bed and Breakfast or what hotels are an option
There are so many different places that you can stay while on your vacation. I simply love staying in a Bed and Breakfast because they remind so much of home. It is so cool to see the differences in designs of the homes. Where ever you plan to stay, look for a place that meets your needs. Do you want to be in a quite neighborhood? Or do you want to be in the middle of all the action in a heart of the town? Most larger cities have so many options available, you just have to take some time to find the right place.

5. How much luggage do I plan to  take?
My first trip to Santa Fe, New Mexico I packed entirely too much luggage and believe me, I did not like it one bit.  I promised myself that I would learn how to pack light; but have more than enough changes of clothes. When my hubby and I went to the Caribbean last year, I was able to have more than enough clothes while using smaller and fewer suitcases. Think about how far and how much you will be carrying your luggage while you are on your trip. If you have transport it through an airport and onto plane, you don’t want it to be heavy. And these days, the airline want to charge you extra fees if you have more than two suitcases or if they are over a certain weight. These restrictions really make you think about how much you want, or need, to take with you.

Please let me know if you are planning a Holiday getaway!