It can seem impossible to make time for a vacation amidst our busy schedules, but if you plan your trips in advance, there are several advantages that make the plan less likely to fall through.

Traveling is an enriching experience that all people should prioritize to learn and grow, so if you are wanting to see more of the world, looking into the details ahead of time can help you make it happen. Instead of waiting until the last minute to throw together a vacation, here are 6 benefits of planning a vacation far in advance:

1. Accommodate different schedules and calendars

While it would be fun and romantic to jump full speed ahead into a spontaneous vacation, many of us are tied to the coordination of different schedules and calendars that need more planning. You may work a 9-5 job that has strict time-off policies that require moving past red tape to coordinate. Otherwise, you might have kids in school that you have to think about. Most school and work calendars are available far in advance, allowing you to plan your vacations accordingly with the time periods that are most convenient for your schedule.

2. Feel financially stable as you budget and save

Many people find it difficult to travel because of the financial burden, but by planning a trip in advance, you have time to set money aside and budget your vacation. Instead of paying a large fee for accommodations and travel at once, you can pay for things as you are ready or elect for a payment plan that allows you to stay comfortable financially while still going on an adventure.

3. Prepare properly without the last-minute stress

Planning a trip can be stressful, especially when it is at the last minute and you don’t have time to double-check all of the nuances have been accounted for. There are a lot of behind-the-scenes details that go behind planning a vacation, so by planning your trip in advance, you can feel confident that everything is taken care of without the stress of doing everything last minute.

4. Plan to do everything you want to do

Compared to the stability of planning in advance, your vacation might not be everything you dreamed it would be if you wait until the last minute to plan. The earlier you begin planning your trip, the more likely you’ll be able to organize your itinerary to include all the activities you have been looking forward to.

5. Have something on the calendar to look forward to

Having a trip on the calendar, whether it is next week, next month, or next year, is exciting to look forward to. When you unavoidably face adversity in life, it is always reassuring to know that there is something good waiting for you around the corner. Plus, watching the countdown get smaller as your vacation gets closer is incredibly exciting!

6. Have a goal to work towards that is hard-earned

Most of us spend a lot of time working, so traveling is a well-earned reward after a diligent work season. There are many aspects of getting ready for a trip, including finances and saving, physical preparation and getting fit, and mentally planning everything required to enjoy a smooth, seamless journey. By putting the work in early, you can feel proud of yourself for achieving your goal of planning a vacation.

Planning a trip far in advance not only makes the process easier and more enjoyable but also makes it more likely to come together in the end. If you want to prioritize traveling in your life, take action now and get that vacation on your calendar – even if it is a year away!

Wellness retreats with Outrun Gravity are a great way to combine a vacation with an opportunity for self-growth. If you want to learn more about how to change your life and find the fulfillment you’ve been searching for, check out our website for more details about how you can join us in Costa Rica or Jamaica next year!