I am ready to get away for a few days, aren’t you?

Do you see a window of opportunity? Maybe a low airfare, decreased COVID cases, even a slow time at work? Whatever it is, you are ready to go NOW!

Slow your roll!

Impulse travel is like impulse shopping, except you can’t return it once you take it. Therefore, before you book that long-awaited vacation, pause, ask, AND answer these 7 questions.

Woman Shaking Piggy Bank

1. Will I have enough money for my trip and will I have money when I return?

Since the pandemic, many people are losing their jobs. Therefore dipping into your savings nest egg may be a gamble.

It’s great to have a vacation savings account, separate from your regular savings /emergency fund account to keep you from dipping into your nest egg.

A no-brainer way to save for vacation is to open an online savings account. Create a monthly automatic deposit from your checking account.

2. Will I Be Able To Handle The Unexpected?

Mitigate unexpected horrors with traveling insurance. When shopping for insurance, don’t limit yourself to well-known travel insurers. Your credit card company may offer travel insurance.

Travel insurance doesn’t cover everything, so ensure you have the resources to cover a circumstance that is not included in your plan.

During the pandemic, many travelers mistakenly thought their unexpected coronavirus-related expenses were covered. Read the fine print and ask questions of the insurer.

Allergic or ill woman looking at camera on holidays

3. Will I Be Able To Return Home As Planned?

You need a plan in the rare case COVID changes your itinerary. The plan should include access to cash or credit to cover unexpected costs.

But it’s not only about money. Prior to leaving ask your employer what are your options if you can’t return to work as planned.

Prior to traveling to Aruba, my manager and I devised a backup plan to cover my responsibilities in case the pandemic prolonged my return.

4. What Warnings Should I Heed?

Before traveling internationally, check out the state department’s travel advisories and review the country/city’s newspaper online.

A travel advisory may influence you to alter travel plans. Always review the cancellation/refund policy for your flight and accommodations before finalizing your bookings.

I follow @TravelGov on Twitter to get the latest international information that could impact my travel plans.

Vacation on the calendar

5. When Is A Good Time To Travel?

Consider how much vacation time you have as well as when it is a good time to take a break from job and family responsibilities.

Do some research to find out the destination’s local holidays and major events. This could be an added bonus or deterrent to your vacation plans.

My husband’s busy time at work is between February through April. My time is October through January. We vacation travel from April 20 through September 30.

Woman meditating

6. What else should I consider besides my physical health?

Mental health is as important as physical health. Taking time away for an international, cross-country, or even local staycation can improve your overall well-being.

A vacation with your partner can reduce stress in a relationship, improve communication and intimacy. Take the time to create lasting new experiences together.

Stress and isolation can not only damage your mental health but can eventually take a toll on your physical health.

Best Travel Offers Sign

7. Should I jump on discounted travel offers?

Read the fine print on all offers. Be aware of black-out dates. If you utilize the offer, pack a printed copy to resolve any discrepancies.

Review the refund and cancellation policy. Ensure there are no deadline dates or charges for rebooking if you pre-purchase your hotel, airfare, or other activities.

luxury travel, romantic beach getaway holidays for honeymoon couple, tropical vacation in luxurious hotel

Now you are ready to go!

Imagine laying on the beach under a palapa looking at the ocean. The beach is not too crowded. The weather is perfect. You picked the right time to come here.

Imagine being able to go down to the local shops and buy yourself a new outfit and a few souvenirs for others without adding additional financial burden. You saved specifically for this trip and the shopping experience.

Now imagine not having a worry in the world. You deserve this trip. You are finally relaxed.