The last step in Trip Planning 101 is not absolutely necessary, but I like to do it because it enables me to see the “big picture” of our trip and fill in free time. The last step is to make a spreadsheet! I know….urgh….more computer time, but this is actually very helpful and convenient, distilling mountains of paper information into one small, short and concise document.

I use Excel and set up a graph, with columns from left to right, Date/Day, then moving to the right, Trip Day (some tours will call out Day one, Day two, etc), Location (country/city), Itinerary morning, Itinerary Afternoon, Itinerary Evening and Comment. I like to put in the actual weekday name of the trip so I can easily see if the museum we want to go to is open on that day. The itinerary columns will remind you of what you are doing every day and when you have free time so you can prepare yourself. I also like to add opening times, suggested viewing time and cost to venues for free time. In the comments section go flight details and seat numbers, the hotel you are staying at, any included meals, and any reservations you have made. I also like to make notes the day before as to if I need to call ahead or make a reservation on the road.

 I know, some folks may not like to go to this much work to enjoy their holiday, but being organized is a gift or a curse that I have! Mom loves the itinerary compilation because she doesn’t have to wonder what’s in store the next day and she feels comfortable that I have it arranged and we aren’t winging it. Composing a spreadsheet also keeps you from having to haul around a large amount of paper for flights, tours, reservations, etc. The information is all at your fingertips. I carry the itinerary in my purse and refer to it many times during the day.

Being organized makes me feel confident that I have cut down on potential issues as much as possible, while still leaving time for spontaneity. Also, putting in the organization time upfront allows me to truly relax, knowing I have done my best to create a great trip.