Are you tired of taking the same vacations year after year—eating the same foods, going the same places, doing the same things? Consider an Epic Escape instead! Not sure where to start? Here’s a glimpse at my process. It’s easier than you might think to Plan Your Own Adventure!
Gather Your TOOLS:
Planning an Epic Escape means charting a new course, not just repeating past travels. This takes a few “specialized” tools: (or at least using your tools for specific purposes…)
- Calendar – discover conflicts and juggle schedules
- Computer – for on-line research, social media recommendations, and eventual reservations
- Colored pens and LOTS of paper – capture lists, plans, alternate plans, packing lists, and lists of lists
- Coffee – or chocolate or chips or something else to fuel the frenzy of researching all the possibilities!
Determine Your NUTS n BOLTS:
Know what limits you have. Figure out the details for this particular time and trip.
- Identify preferences (dates, place, activities)
- Set a budget (then add 50%! Really!)
- Re-evaluate your priorities to scribble down a final list of details to keep in mind.
Choose Your FLAVOR:
Don’t settle for a plain-jane vanilla vacation, just like all the ones you have taken before. Consider all the possibilities within the parameters of this particular Epic Escape.
- Carve out some empty space in your schedule/itinerary to be spontaneous
- Read & Research. Search on-line (or in books) for “Things to Do Near …” “Best Food In …” and “Things to Do With Kids In …” (even if you don’t have kids with you. These are the fun, hands-on activities in any given location.) Don’t forget to check nps.gov to see which national parks you could visit!
- When you get to your location(s), talk with locals and check the local visitor center for more ideas of unique things to do or see.
Be FLEXIBLE:
No matter how well you Plan Your Own Adventure, the unexpected WILL happen! Most of these things will be outside your control: weather, delays, changes, illness, etc.
- Before you leave, consider potential problems and brainstorm possible responses. This way you won’t be blindsided when the unexpected actually happens.
- Remember WHY you chose this particular Epic Escape. You were excited about it while you were planning. Focus on your main objectives and let go of the details.
- Choose your attitude! Often, it is the challenging moments that are the most exciting and thought-provoking later. Once we get back home, those problems frequently become the most entertaining stories.
Read about my Wand’rin’ Spirit HERE. Read about the Research involved in our first AT backpacking trip HERE. If you want some ideas for fun activities to add to your next vacation, drop me a note in the comments. I love to brainstorm adventures!
The Big Epic 