Have you ever gotten excited for an outing and then set out on the journey only to have it go horribly wrong or worse, be completely disappointed or unsatisfied afterwards? Here are a few tips that should help you launch a successful, memorable day trip.
- Plan it out! Take the time to research all the necessary details at least one day before you set out, these include:
- The distance and route to (and from) the destination
- Time of day where you will least likely run into traffic
- Necessities around your destination: restrooms, gas stations and restaurants
- Hours of operation
- Super Saver Tip: Look over the company website of your destinations; they will sometimes have coupons that can save you a bundle!
Planning out most of the nuances of a trip can seem a bit tedious, but it always pays off to be prepared. Being prepared can help you rescue a failing day trip, you’ll be the super hero of the day! Read my Quabbin Reservoir hiking review and see how I hit a few obstacles during my trip but managed to recover using these tips.
- Take your camera with you (or your phone if it can take pictures). Digital cameras are a godsend, they are fast, convenient, and you can store 1000’s of pictures without taking up any physical space. Outside of the initial investment in the camera, taking digital pictures is free no matter how many you take. Clear out at least half of the memory card and charge the camera the day before you leave to avoid any camera snafus.
Be annoying with that camera. Take as many pictures as you can, don’t limit yourself to forced-smile group pictures – be adventurous. Capture the scenery, catch people off guard and take their photos, even take pictures of something as silly as your shoes; these make for great scrapbook photos later. What’s worse: taking too many pictures (that can be edited/deleted later) or taking too few and missing some of the important moments? Digital technology allows you to really go crazy with picture-taking with nothing to lose.
- If you have a GPS or a Smartphone, bring it (and if you don’t have one, it would be a good idea to invest in one). If something unforeseeable goes wrong, something that the first tip above doesn’t cover, these devices can be your life preserver. Many can be loaded with applications which can offer suggestions or solve whatever obstacle is in your way with a touch of a button.
- Last but not least HAVE FUN! The preparation beforehand is to make the trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Figure out the details ahead of time, then sit back and enjoy yourself!
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