When it’s time to start thinking about your long-awaited holiday, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement and overlook the importance of efficient planning.

A well-thought-out plan not only helps you avoid unexpected issues but also ensures you make the most of your time off. Today, we’ll share some key tips for planning your holiday efficiently and optimising your time before you set off.

1. Plan Ahead: The First Step Towards a Stress-Free Holiday

The secret to a perfect holiday begins well before you start packing your suitcase. Planning in advance offers a host of benefits, helping you save time, money, and unnecessary stress.

For example, booking flights and accommodation several months ahead often results in better prices and more availability for your preferred dates and destinations. Take a look at Princess Hotels & Resorts Canary Islands for options in La Palma, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Fuerteventura. Many airlines and booking platforms also offer early-bird discounts, helping you stay within budget.

Planning ahead allows you to organise your trip gradually, avoiding the last-minute rush. Plus, having a holiday on the horizon can provide a motivational boost in your day-to-day routine!

2. Create a Realistic Itinerary

Another essential aspect of efficient holiday planning is crafting an itinerary that lets you enjoy your trip without feeling overwhelmed. Avoid cramming every day with too many activities; instead, spread them out evenly. Focus on the key places you want to visit and, if the destination allows, leave some time for relaxation or spontaneity.

Tip: Use travel guides or specialist blogs for inspiration. Seek out local recommendations that might not feature in the most popular guides. For example, if you’re visiting the Canary Islands, it’s worth checking websites that offer insider tips on hidden gems across Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura or La Palma.

3. Make the Most of Your Time Before Travelling

Once everything is booked, the countdown begins. Making good use of the time before your trip can help the wait feel more productive. Here are a few tips for maximising the days leading up to your holiday:

• Research the destination: If you haven’t already, now is a great time to delve deeper into what your destination has to offer. Reading guides or visiting blogs will help you uncover hidden gems and prepare for cultural experiences. For instance, did you know Agatha Christie wrote part of The Mystery of the Blue Train in Gran Canaria? A fun fact if you’re visiting the island!
• Prepare your music and reading list: Holidays are a perfect time to relax, and there’s no better way to unwind than with good music or a great book. You might want to download the latest hits, or if you prefer, explore some folk music from your destination, like Los Sabandeños from Tenerife, Los Gofiones from Gran Canaria or Taburiente from La Palma.
• Pack in advance: Don’t leave packing until the last minute. Start a few days early by making a list of everything you’ll need, and spread out any shopping over several days. This will help you avoid last-minute stress and reduce the risk of forgetting something important.

4. Get a Taste of Your Destination Before You Go

A clever way to enjoy your holiday before it even begins is to start experiencing your destination from home—through food! Nowadays, it’s easy to find traditional products in supermarkets. If you’re heading to the Canary Islands, for example, why not whip up some mojo picón or treat yourself to some Canary Island bananas? Here‘s a recipe for you to give a go. These small gestures can make it feel like your holiday has already started.

5. Make the Most of Digital Tools

Technology is your best friend when it comes to efficient holiday planning. There are plenty of apps available that can help you organise every detail of your trip, from managing bookings to keeping track of must-see places.

Create folders on your phone, or use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest to save useful information about your destination. Having your itinerary or key locations easily accessible will save you time searching for details during your holiday.

Good planning is half the job done

Planning your holiday in advance and making the most of the time before you travel can mean the difference between a stressful holiday and one that’s relaxed and well-organised. Not only will you enjoy the trip more, but the build-up will also become part of the fun, filling you with excitement and anticipation.

Remember: time spent on good planning always translates into better experiences. So, the earlier you start, the better the result. Get ready to unwind and enjoy your well-deserved holiday in the Canary Islands!

Categories: Canaries, Travel Tips, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, La Palma, Tenerife