Whenever I return to Texas, I love discovering the state's unique towns like Marfa.
As the year comes to a close, it's time to think about your travel goals for 2016. Here are five strategies to prioritize travel and maximize your time away:
1. Make the Most of Weekends. During my time studying in England, I explored more than many locals by embarking on weekend trips. I continued this practice after moving to Austin, visiting Marfa, Houston, Big Bend National Park, and other charming spots.
Create a list of nearby destinations you often overlook. Set aside one weekend each month to discover these hidden gems, whether it's a town, a national park, or a local attraction. Invite friends or family to join for a memorable day or weekend getaway.
2. Pack Light. Master the art of packing by using only carry-on luggage. Start your packing process days in advance to avoid last-minute overpacking. Each day, refine your selection to just the essentials. Traveling light saves you time at the airport since you can skip baggage claim and enjoy a few extra moments of sleep!
Choose coordinating colors for your outfits and limit yourself to two pairs of shoes. Rolling clothes can help maximize space in your bag. Remember, laundry services are available wherever you go!
3. Stay Active. Don't let your fitness routine slip while traveling. Instead, use your workouts as a chance to explore new places. One of my favorite ways to begin a trip is with a sunrise run when the city is still quiet.
Consider engaging in physically rewarding activities like biking through local neighborhoods, climbing a volcano, or sandboarding. Join a group or venture out solo for a more authentic cultural experience.
Plan your travels around challenging yet rewarding activities, such as hiking the Inca Trail or trekking to Everest Base Camp. Push your boundaries and create unforgettable stories!
4. Opt for Extended Trips. Traveling for longer periods can be more economical than taking several short trips. Airfare often constitutes the highest expense, so once you reach your destination, it's easier and cheaper to explore nearby countries.
To find the time, I made the most of gaps between jobs and after graduation. I even left jobs to travel, returning to the same positions after my adventures!
Review your annual work schedule and create a plan to take an extended trip without hindering your productivity. Meet with your boss to discuss options, including the possibility of remote work. Be candid and considerate—maybe even bring back a nice bottle of Argentinean malbec!
5. Start Earning Miles. After completing a seven-month journey in Central and South America, I flew fifteen times and paid for only four of those flights. The rest were covered by the miles I accumulated through travel and rewards credit cards.
What's my tip? Sign up for a rewards credit card and create frequent flyer accounts with major airlines. The initial bonuses from these cards can often cover a free flight! Take advantage of online shopping portals linked to your rewards card to earn miles on regular purchases—just be mindful not to overspend.
Don't forget to collect miles from work travel, including flights, hotels, and rental cars. Remember, whoever flies earns the miles! Look out for double-dipping opportunities; for instance, hotel programs like Hilton HHonors allow you to earn both hotel points and airline miles for every dollar spent on stays.
LOOKING AHEAD: Next week, I'll share my favorite travel snapshots from my 2015 adventures!
