While some people enjoy planning every detail of a vacation for months beforehand, others like to take advantage of potentially great discounts by taking off last minute. Generally, a “last-minute vacation” is one that will occur within two weeks of its arrangement, and fortunately, two weeks is still enough time to plan a fun, cost-effective vacation. You will just need to be flexible, know where to look for accommodation and travel deals, and know how to get your documentation in order. Below are a few tips that could help you save money and plan a dream vacation on short notice.
Be Flexible
If you’re planning a last-minute vacation, there's a good chance you won't be able to travel to your dream destination. That, however, doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to travel to a great spot – just be flexible. You should have no specific destination or accommodations in mind. The more you go with the flow, the greater your vacation options. Remember that on short notice, there’s no guarantee that you will get the destination, flight, hotel, or type of hotel room that you want. You might discover something new and exciting just by following your general wants and needs. For example, you will find a lot more vacation options when you keep your search criteria broad, like a place with beaches and year-round warmth instead of a specific location, like Honolulu, Hawaii.
Be Prepared to Prepare Quickly
Obviously, last-minute vacations aren’t for those with specific wants and tastes. And tirelessly searching for what you want can make you miss valuable preparation steps. For example, planning to take a last-minute trip to a foreign country can leave you ill-prepared for international travel. To travel internationally, you will need certain documentation, such as a valid passport.
It can take up to six weeks to acquire a passport and travelling internationally often requires that your passport be valid for 6 months preceding your trip. If you don’t have one or if yours isn’t updated, you won’t be able to vacation in any foreign locations. Fortunately, updating your passport is as simple as expediting the renewal process and getting an updated passport photo. You can find the best passport photos Edmonton, Alberta offers at PhotoStop. However, quick preparation also includes having your other documentation in order, such as an up-to-date driver’s license, packing early (and wisely) and booking your flight, hotel and other accommodations as early as possible.
Look for Vacation Packages
Vacation packages are an excellent way to save time and money. These packages provide deals on resorts, flights, and other accommodations. So, if you book a vacation package, you won’t have to worry about making all the other arrangements for your last-minute getaway, which could lessen your stress and leave you more time to prepare. Additionally, some resort operators offer last-minute deals on resort vacations, hotel accommodations, and charter flights. This can save you money and streamline the planning process.
No matter how you choose to plan your vacation this winter, remember PhotoStop for all your passport photo needs!