By: Mike Coleman
Want your next vacation to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience? Whether it’s a long-awaited bucket list or a quick getaway you’ve been dreaming about, you’ve got to make it count! With the right mix of planning, flexibility, and a few insider tips, you can create a journey rich with memories and full of adventure.
Here are a few of our favorite tips for getting the most out of your trip and making your next vacation one that sticks with you long after you’re back home!
Set Intentions for Your Trip
Before you even pack, think about what you want from this vacation. Are you looking for relaxation, adventure, or a little soul-searching? Setting clear intentions helps you stay focused on what you want, making your vacation more fulfilling and meaningful. Plus, with a purpose in mind, you’re less likely to fall into tourist traps and more likely to seek out experiences that really satisfy your curiosity and interests.
Set a Plan, But Leave Room for Surprises
It’s tempting to map out every detail while planning your dream trip—you want every bit to be amazing, inspiring, and fulfilling, so why leave things to chance? And while having a list of must-do activities helps you make the most of each day, so much magic happens in the in-between moments! Instead of planning down to the minute, sketch out an agenda to cover your top spots, but leave blocks of time open for spur-of-the-moment discoveries—whether it’s a cute little café, a local festivity, or a scenic detour. A flexible itinerary gives you structure without feeling boxed in. It lets your vacation unfold more spontaneously, giving you stories to tell long after returning home.
Research to Uncover Hidden Delights and Avoid Pitfalls
A little research can go a long way in turning a good trip into an absolutely unforgettable one. Rather than sticking to the big attractions, dig into travel blogs and forums where you can chat with people in the know to find the spots that aren’t always highlighted in popular itineraries. Look for basic cultural tips and common do’s and don’ts for travelers to avoid embarrassing, yet avoidable, missteps and faux pas. And most importantly, stay informed about any safety advice specific to your destination!
- Read our guide to navigating travel advisories with confidence
Plan a Day on the Water
Imagine a day on the open water, with nothing around but sprawling coastlines and bright blue waves—the perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and excitement! If you’re traveling with a group, you might find that chartering a boat is the perfect way to spend the day—but if you’re traveling solo, with a loved one, or if chartering is out of reach, tons of destinations have day cruises, sunset sails, and kayak rentals.
- Want to go on a river cruise? Get inspired by these 15 amazing river cruises around the world!
Hire a Private Guide for Personalized Exploration
A private tour guide can make even the most familiar landmarks feel like you’ve just discovered them. Look into options for personalized experiences—like private wine and food tasting tours through a vineyard, complete with an unforgettable meal by a top-notch chef. A private guide will bring a level of depth and connection you don’t get in big groups, allowing you to engage more deeply with the place and its stories. And for food lovers, consider a culinary tour introducing you to local markets and hidden eateries you wouldn’t have found otherwise!
- Looking for authentic street food? Here are 10 world-famous markets you must visit!
Savor Local Dishes and Dive into the Food Scene
There’s no better way to experience a destination than by tasting it. And there are so many ways to go beyond the most famous dishes—dive into the local food scene by doing a food tour, taking a cooking or tasting class, visiting street markets, or even asking people about their favorite spots and local delicacies! If you’re not a super adventurous eater or have food restrictions, then trying familiar foods prepared with the local ingredients you’re comfortable with can be eye-opening. A new cuisine’s smells, flavors, and textures can give you a deeper sense of connection to the place you’re visiting.
Disconnect from Your Phone and Live in the Moment
Your phone may be your go-to for capturing and sharing memories, but taking time away from screens can make your experiences so much more immersive. Set specific times to check messages and catch up, and then spend the rest of the day enjoying your surroundings. Mute notifications or put your phone on Do Not Disturb for a few hours to stay fully present each day. You’ll have clearer memories and a stronger connection to the place.
Pick Travel Buddies That Match Your Vibe
Choosing the right travel buddy can make or break your trip, especially for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure! Make sure your fellow travelers share similar interests, energy levels, and budget expectations. If you’re looking to relax, bring a friend with the same expectations, rather than one who wants to sightsee from dawn till dusk—another trip at a different time could be perfect! Or, if you’re planning on an adventurous escape, pick someone who’s up for it! A harmonious group or partner keeps the vibe positive and maximizes enjoyment for everyone.
Get Involved with the Local Community
For a more immersive experience that’ll let you connect more deeply with your destination, look for opportunities to hang out with locals. Volunteer for a day, attend a workshop, or even stay at a homestay instead of a hotel. Look for cultural exchange options where you can learn skills like crafting or cooking while contributing something meaningful, like a donation to a local program. These connections can turn into the most cherished parts of any trip, making you feel like more than just a tourist passing through.
Take a Break from the Tourist Trail
While seeing famous landmarks is a fabulous start, spending time in lesser-known spots can add a new dimension to your vacation. Visit smaller neighborhoods, hike off-the-beaten-path trails, or even take public transport to explore like a local. Places like quiet temples, hidden beaches, or hole-in-the-wall restaurants may lack the crowds but deliver an equally impactful experience that makes you feel like you’ve discovered something new and incredible.
Bring Home Souvenirs with Stories
Skip the generic trinkets and go for souvenirs that have meaning—whether it’s a handmade item from a local artist, a small book from an indie shop, or something you crafted yourself in a workshop. These items carry stories and memories from the trip and will be far more treasured than a simple magnet or keychain—though you shouldn’t skip the fun, goofy souvenirs if you love them! Every time you see or use it, you’ll be reminded of your adventure and the unique experience you had.
Over to you! What are your tips for having the best vacation of your life? Share your advice and stories with the Frayed Passport community!
About the Author
Mike is a freelance writer who researches and shares actionable advice around travel, finance, and personal growth. Read his other articles on Frayed Passport here.
Featured photo by Robert Noreiko on Unsplash
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