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January marks a fresh start once again for all us eager travelers and by now most of you are probably jotting down your travel goals for the year. Have you already decided where you’ll be headed this 2025? Here are a few ways to seal the deal and plan your way through all your desired travels this year.

Create a budget

Take note of what destinations and how much budget you’re willing to set aside for each. List down all the travel requirements you’ll need like plane tickets, what the local culture is like for the area, and visa applications for foreign destinations. Your top priority should be making sure your accommodations are secure and trusted. Only book from official hotel websites or established booking agencies. Be on the lookout as well for any air travel deals that can get you to your location at a cheaper price.

Establish safety nets

Always remember to leave a little extra funds set for emergencies too. Establish emergency contacts and tracking devices in case you’re traveling solo. If with a group, ensure that you are all insured and have means of communication with the embassy or family members to certify your safety. If things go south, make sure there’s a contact person you can get in touch with in your desired destination.

Keep things flexible

Sometimes the itinerary won’t be followed exactly as planned, that’s why you need to keep things flexible. Keep into account potential flight delays or possible weather disturbances when planning your travel dates. Travel insurance and opting for flexible ticket options are always a must. If you need to miss out on certain locations in your itinerary, opt for the closest alternative experience you can go for. 

Familiarize yourself with your surroundings

Before traveling to a certain area, use an ample amount of time to research about where you’ve decided to go. Look into what places are less crowded by tourists, cheaper food areas, and how to spot any scammers or tourist trap locations. Trust your instincts. If it’s too good to be true, it’s likely a scam. 

Sustainability is key

When traveling, we often seek to enrich ourselves. Why not help others in the process? Sustainable travel is an important way to ensure the beautiful locations we visit stay as pristine as when we enjoy them. Following sustainable travel practices is simple, always clean up after yourself and make sure to opt for eco-friendly options at all times. Support local businesses to stimulate the area’s economy. Try to avoid peak travel seasons to ensure overtourism doesn’t become an issue in the area. Pack a reusable bottle and bring a tote bag when shopping to keep waste minimal.