Home Bound
Not ready for a road trip yet? You want to get outside and stay there? Chores are a drudge especially when there are lots of fun outdoor activities to do.
Do you still want to be somewhat organized while having fun? Compromise! Maybe you can organized in ‘big picture mode’ during summer break; not too much detail.
Keep the pool bag ready with sunscreen, lip balm, clean towels & bathing suits; aim for one load of laundry each day.
Check the cooler: Cleaned & Restocked
Figure out the dinner plan with your eyes closed at the pool
Plan Vacation
Sorry no way around it….you have to be detailed here; create a checklist and add to it as you think of details.
Talk about a vacation plan while at the pool; conference call with your spouse & include the kids in your decision. Are you flying or driving?
If you do not like to plan the details, invest in AAA or another travel agent that is recommended to you. I use AAA. I can get maps anytime, expert travel advice, and roadside assistance.
https://cluballiance.aaa.com/?zip=21075&devicecd=PC
Driving
Driving gives you added flexibility
Chose your destination (s), and chose your route but allow for changes due to traffic back ups. I actually print a few detailed maps for my rural road trips because GPS can lose signal.
Bring snacks and plenty of water for those long hot car trips and plan plenty of stops for restless kids. Pick out audio books for the drive; this is what gets me thru 12 hour trips. Make sure kids have their favorite car games, craft, & books.
Flying
Add passports and drivers licenses to your travel checklist. Check them twice once while packing and right before you leave for the airport.
Travel requirements & restrictions have changed in 2025. There are changes in baggage requirements to streamline transfers from domestic to international flights.
https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/all
TSA/Visas
There are many new requirements by country concerning visas and travel taxes
https://www.usa.gov/visas-citizens-traveling-abroad
Last minutes decision can lead to increased cost on your preferred destination when booking a flight.
-Be flexible about flight dates/times/destinations; expect delays
-Flights with layovers can give you an unexpected place to explore and reduce costs
A little research, organization, and planning can ease anxiety and make for a pleasant more relaxing trip.
Safe Travels!