How to Plan the Perfect Trip: A Step-by-Step Travel Guide

Collier Travel Collective Headers

Planning a trip should spark joy, exhilaration, and a sense of adventure—never stress - not something that leaves you buried in research and second-guessing decisions.

We believe travel should feel effortless and exhilarating, from the first spark of inspiration to the moment you return back home with unforgettable memories and a happy, full heart. 

Craving some toes-in-the-sand relaxation? Eyeing a passport full of stamps? Need a family vacation that keeps everyone smiling? Or maybe all of the above? 

Whatever you’re dreaming up, we will make every step feel easy, exciting &  fun, so you can soak up the joy from your first idea to the happy flight home.

Here's how to go from wanderlust to wheels up with ease and happiness.

12+ Months Out: Dream Big & Set the Vision

This is where the fun begins! Close your eyes—what do you see? A sun-soaked balcony in Santorini? A cozy villa in the rolling hills of Tuscany? A safari jeep bouncing along the Serengeti? Wherever your heart is calling, we’ll help bring it to life.

  • Find your “why”—Are you celebrating something special? A milestone birthday? A well-earned escape? Maybe you just love the thrill of discovering somewhere new.

  • Pick your dream destination—If you’re not sure where to go, we can help! Our Destinations We Love page is filled with ideas to spark inspiration.

  • Talk it over—If you’re traveling with friends or family, now is the time to chat about what everyone hopes to experience. Beachside relaxation? Non-stop adventure? A perfect mix of both?

  • Set a happy budget—Knowing what you want to spend makes planning feel easy and fun—we’ll help make sure every dollar is well spent.

6-12 Months Out: Make It Happen

Now the trip starts to take shape! This is when we secure the pieces that make your travels smooth, happy, and absolutely stress-free.

  • Book your flights and decide on your dreamy stays—Whether it’s a chic boutique hotel in Paris or an overwater bungalow in the Maldives, we find places that feel just right for you.

  • Reserve must-do experiences—Think family cooking classes in Florence, glamping in Morocco, or island hopping through Greece.

  • Lock in the details— Airport transfers, train tickets, and dining reservations—we make sure everything flows with ease.

  • Check your travel documents—Need to renew your passport? A visa? Certain vaccinations? We’ll guide you so there are no last-minute surprises.

  • Consider using Mobile Passport or getting approved for Global Entry for faster airport processing.

If traveling to Europe, you must visit the official ETIAS website, complete the form, pay the fee and receive your authorization to enter. Once approved, ETIAS is electronically linked to your passport, so there’s no need for a physical document.

3-6 Months Out: Add the Magic

Now that the framework is set, it’s time to add the details that make your trip feel extra special. This is the fun part!

  • Read, watch, and get excited—Dive into books, movies, and shows about your destination to build excitement before you even take off.

  • Fine-tune your itinerary—We double-check everything, making sure each day flows just the way you like—whether that means leisurely mornings and late-night cocktails or sunrise hikes and non-stop exploring.

  • Plan little surprises—Want a special dinner on the beach? A birthday cake waiting at your hotel? Flowers in the room? We love adding these personal touches.

1-3 Months Out: Get Ready to Go!

With just weeks to go, it’s time to get excited!

  • Order local currency—Having a little cash on hand for tips, taxis, and morning cappuccinos makes arrival easy and joyful.

  • Order adaptors for travel abroad.  CLICK HERE for one we prefer.  

  • Think about packing—We’ll share packing lists tailored to your trip, so you know exactly what to bring (and what to leave behind!).

  • Secure those last-minute dining reservations—If there’s a restaurant you’ve been dreaming of, now’s the time to make it happen.

  • Plan for home & pets—Whether it’s a house sitter, pet boarding, or holding your mail, now is the time to check these off your list.

  • Read our What to Do When Guide, attached.  

Collier Travel Collective Headers

The Final Countdown: Go & Enjoy!

With every piece in place, all that’s left is to go and have the time of your life. Travel should always feel joyful, full of love, and easy—and that’s exactly what we want for you.

Want to know more about how we create trips filled with ease, happiness, and fun? Check out Our Approach and let’s start planning your next great adventure today!

Allison Collier

Luxury Travel Planner, Mentor and Business Owner

https://colliertravelcollective.com
Next
Next

The Magic of Greece: A Travel Guide to the Islands