How to Plan a Trip: Your Complete Step-by-Step Travel Guide
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the idea of planning a trip, you’re not alone. There’s so much to think about — where to go, what to do, how to fit it all in — and sometimes just getting started can be the hardest part. I love trip planning. Like, really love it. I can happily spend hours falling down internet rabbit holes about restaurants, landmarks, hidden gems, and the best walking routes between them. I actually tend to try to cram in WAY MORE than I should, which can create some tension if I don’t communicate with my family about my ideas and get their input. Over time, I’ve found that doing the legwork before you leave can completely change the outcome of your vacation. You avoid the dreaded “what should we eat?” debates, don’t waste time zig-zagging across town, and make the most of your days. Of course, not everything goes according to plan — and that’s fine — but starting with a solid outline sets you up for a much smoother trip. That’s why we’ve put together this guide: to help you create your own smart, well-organized trip plan without spending weeks glued to your laptop. It’s the same process we use for our own travels, and it works whether you’re going somewhere for a weekend or a month. 1. Pick Your Destination This is often the trickiest part. The world’s huge, and there’s never enough time (or budget) to see it all. I’m always torn between visiting somewhere brand new or going back to a place that already has my heart. When deciding where to go, start with a few simple questions: What’s the vibe you’re looking for? Do you want the buzz of a big city? Lazy days on the beach? Mountain hikes? Or a mix of everything? Pin down the type of trip you’re craving — that alone can narrow your list fast. When can you go? Your travel dates can make a big difference. If you’re off work in the winter and want warm weather, head somewhere tropical. If you’re escaping summer heat, aim for cooler climates or destinations in the Southern Hemisphere. Consider peak vs. shoulder season Some places are wildly crowded (and pricey) at certain times of year. If you don’t mind slightly less-than-perfect weather, traveling during shoulder season can save money, reduce crowds, and still give you a great experience. Follow the deals Sometimes the destination chooses you. I’ve booked trips I didn’t expect to take simply because I found an amazing flight deal (more on that in Step 3). Go for a special event or experience Anchor your trip around something unique — like a music festival, cherry blossom season, or a famous scenic drive that’s only open part of the year. Need ideas? Here are some of our favorite places so far: Italy – Italy is a captivating blend of rich history, breathtaking landscapes, world-class cuisine, and vibrant culture, offering everything from ancient ruins and the canals of Venice to stunning coastlines and charming villages. Croatia – Croatia is a dazzling mix of crystal-clear Adriatic waters, medieval coastal towns, breathtaking islands, and rich cultural heritage, making it a dream destination for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and beachgoers alike. And they have some of the best waterfalls you’ll ever see in Plitvice National Park. Hawaii – Hawaii is a tropical paradise where lush landscapes, stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and year-round sunshine come together to create the ultimate destination for relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty. Utah – Utah is an adventurer’s dream, boasting otherworldly red rock landscapes, five stunning national parks, year-round outdoor recreation, and a unique blend of natural beauty and rich pioneer heritage. Boston – Boston is a vibrant city where rich American history, world-class museums, charming neighborhoods, and a thriving food scene blend seamlessly with a lively sports culture and beautiful waterfront views. Do the Freedom Trail, either on your own or guided; it’s incredible! U.S. National Parks – Favorites include Yosemite, Zion, Yellowstone, Bryce, Acadia, Mesa Verde, and Arches. 2. Set a Travel Budget Once you’ve chosen where you’re headed, figure out how much you’re willing — and able — to spend. This includes the big stuff (flights, hotels, car rentals, taxis or Ubers) and the smaller daily costs (meals, gas, activities, tips, pet care, etc.). We use a simple travel budget spreadsheet to map out each trip. It helps us balance splurges with budget-friendly adventures so we can keep traveling without putting a strain on our finances. You can get our free spreadsheet here. 3. Track & Book Flights With your destination and budget in place, start watching airfare prices. We use a mix of free tools and paid alerts to make sure we rarely overpay. Free Tools We Love Google Flights – Lets you track specific routes and get notified when prices change. The “Explore” feature is great if you’re open to different destinations. Skyscanner – Often finds fares other sites miss, especially for international flights. Scott’s Cheap Flights (free version) – Sends alerts for discounted fares and even rare “mistake fares.” Paid Tools Worth It FareDrop – Lets you choose departure airports, destinations, and months, then sends targeted deal alerts. Hopper – Predicts whether prices will go up or down, helping you time your purchase. Pro Tip: Whenever possible, we book flights using credit card points. It’s the easiest way to get “free” travel — just by paying for everyday expenses with the right travel rewards card. 4. Book Accommodation Once flights are locked in, we jump on lodging. Popular spots can fill up quickly, especially in peak season. Our go-tos: Expedia.com – Great hotel deals and other things like rental cars. Airbnb – Perfect for longer stays, cooking meals, and feeling like a local. Booking.com – Great hotel deals and a wide range of vacation rentals. Tripadvisor – The best place to read unbiased reviews before committing. 5. Arrange Transportation Will you need a rental car? Public transit
A Complete Guide to Visiting Lava Hot Springs, Idaho
In this guide, we’re sharing everything you need to know to plan a fun and relaxing getaway to Lava Hot Springs, Idaho—including where to soak, stay, eat, and play! We recently visited Lava Hot Springs on a summer road trip, and it quickly became one of our favorite hidden gems in the Rockies. From playing on the slides at the Olympic Swimming Complex and soaking in world-famous geothermal pools to floating the Portneuf River and exploring quirky downtown shops, this town is packed with small-town charm and big adventure energy. Whether you’re visiting for a family vacation, a couples retreat, or just passing through on a road trip, Lava Hot Springs is absolutely worth the stop. About Lava Hot Springs, Idaho Nestled in a lush valley in southeastern Idaho, Lava Hot Springs is a charming resort town famous for its natural hot springs, crystal-clear river, and laid-back atmosphere. The town’s namesake geothermal pools have been drawing visitors for over a century—and are still the main attraction today. The mineral-rich waters here bubble up from underground at a toasty 102°–112°F and contain no sulfur, so there’s no rotten egg smell—in other words, it doesn’t smell like me! 😆 The town itself is walkable, friendly, and full of candy shops, floating tube rentals, historic museums, and family-friendly lodging options. Before embarking on your adventure, please review the Leave No Trace principles to ensure you leave every place better than you found it, so that others can enjoy these beautiful places for many years to come! These seven principles include planning ahead and preparing, hiking and camping on durable surfaces, disposing of waste properly (pack out what you pack in!), understanding campfire rules and always fully extinguishing your fires, respecting wildlife, and being considerate of other visitors. When to visit Lava Hot Springs 🌷 Spring (March–May) Perfect weather for soaking and strolling. River tubing opens mid-to-late spring depending on water levels. However, be aware that the water will be COLD this time of year! It’s cold year-round honestly, but this time of year is brutal. ☀️ Summer (June–August) Peak season! River floating is at its best. Book lodging and hot springs tickets early—especially on weekends. This cool Idaho town gets busy during the summer, and for good reason. It’s such a fun spot to visit in summer! 🍂 Fall (September–October) Cooler temps = ideal hot spring soaking weather. The town quiets down and the fall colors are stunning in the surrounding hills. ❄️ Winter (November–February) Here comes the snow! You can soak in 112°F water while snowflakes fall around you, which honestly is pretty epic! You’ll have much fewer crowds, but some lodging and dining will be closed. Getting to and around Lava Hot Springs Lava Hot Springs is located in southeastern Idaho, about 2 hours north of Salt Lake City, UT and 45 minutes southeast of Pocatello, ID. Closest Airports: Pocatello Regional Airport (PIH) – 45 minutes away Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) – 2-hour drive Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) – 1 hour 45 minutes Driving to Lava Hot Springs 🚙 Driving is the best way to get there. The town is small and walkable once you arrive, but you’ll need a vehicle to explore nearby attractions or access campsites. Where to stay in Lava Hot Springs Whether you’re looking for a vintage motel, a family cabin, or a riverside RV site, Lava Hot Springs has something cozy for everyone. 🏨 Hotels & Motels Home Hotel – Located right across from the hot springs, this historic hotel pumps the same mineral water directly into its private soaking tubs. Riverside Hot Springs Inn – Adults-only, historic hotel with private hot soaking rooms. It has an on-site spa and restaurant. Lava Hot Springs Inn – Charming, rustic property with multiple outdoor hot spring pools for guests. It’s also pet-friendly! 🛌 Vacation Rentals Cozy Cottage Downtown – Walk to everything! Cute 2-bedroom house with a deck and full kitchen. Hilltop House with Views – Sleeps 6, modern décor, amazing views, 5-minute drive from downtown. ⛺ Camping & RV Parks Portneuf Bend Campground – We stayed here last time we visited and it was a REALLY awesome campground, and less expensive than the KOA and other campgrounds in the area. This is the campground we recommend the most for its location and cost. Lava Campground – We’ve stayed here as well and they have full hook-ups, shaded spots, and close access to the Portneuf River and tubing. There’s a playground for kids here too! Nu Bend RV Park – Family-friendly campground along the river with great views, grassy sites, and fire pits. KOA Lava Hot Springs – Amenities include a playground, mini-golf, and pool. Great for families. Where to Eat in Lava Hot Springs Despite its size, Lava offers up some fun and tasty dining spots! 🍔 Casual Bites Chuckwagon Diner – American classics, breakfast all day, and friendly service. Blue Moon Bar & Grill – Pub-style eats, burgers, and live music on weekends. Royal Hotel Pizza – Laid-back pizza and salad bar in a vintage hotel setting. 🌯 Unique Eats Greystone Coffee – Grab a latte and pastry from this adorable café inside a historic building. 🍦 Treats & Sweets Sweet Shoppe – Old-school candy store with taffy, fudge, and ice cream. 20 Below Frozen Yogurt – Refreshing froyo bar perfect after a hot soak or river float. What to Bring to Lava Hot Springs As always, we recommend having the 10 essentials on you when venturing into nature, but here are a few key items we want to point out that will especially help you during your visit! To ensure you have a safe and enjoyable time at Lava Hot Springs, here are some items we’d suggest bringing with you! ✔️ Swimsuit (or two!) ✔️ Quick-dry towel ✔️ Flip-flops or water shoes ✔️ Sunscreen and hat ✔️ Change of clothes for after the river ✔️ Camera or waterproof phone case ✔️ Reusable water bottle ✔️ Snacks for in between dips! LAYERS
A Complete Guide to Visiting Silverton, Colorado
In this guide, we’re sharing everything you need to know to plan the perfect visit—including the Old Hundred Mine Tour, where to eat, hikes to do, and helpful tips to make your trip unforgettable. We recently set out on a 6-day road trip through Colorado, and Silverton was a must-see along the way. If you’d like to see the ACTUAL mine tour, check out our YouTube video! About Silverton, Colorado Nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, Silverton is a charming historic mining town that was established in 1874. Its growth skyrocketed in 1881 when the Denver & Rio Grande Railway rolled into town, forever changing its future. Today, Silverton still holds onto its old soul, with many original 19th-century buildings still standing tall and most of its streets remaining unpaved, giving visitors the distinct feeling of stepping back in time. While you could breeze through with just a coffee or a quick bite before heading north on the Million Dollar Highway, we highly recommend spending at least a few hours here. From scenic hikes to fascinating museums and mine tours, Silverton offers more than just a pretty backdrop—it’s a living slice of Colorado history. Here are some of the best things to do in Silverton. Tour the Old Hundred Gold Mine Hands down, the Old Hundred Gold Mine Tour was one of the most fun and unique experiences we had in Silverton—and absolutely worth every penny! For just $30 per adult, $15 for kids 5-12, and children 4 and under are free (seniors 60+ cost $28), you hop aboard a vintage electric-powered mine train that takes you 1/3 of a mile deep into the heart of Galena Mountain, which towers over 13,000 feet high. Heads up—you will get a little water dripping on you, but they provide these yellow raincoats with hoods to keep you dry. Once inside, you’ll walk through the old tunnels, learn all about historic mining techniques, and watch live demonstrations of original 1930s mining equipment (they’re LOUD, but super cool to see in action!). What made the tour even more special was our guide—a real former miner, who brought the history to life with personal stories and deep knowledge of the mining world. His passion made it feel less like a tour and more like a journey through time. 🎉 Bonus activity: After the underground adventure, you’ll get to pan for real silver, copper, gems, and gold, and you get to keep whatever you find! We found several .999% silver balls! Lukas was enthralled with this experience, spending an hour panning, and taking home one of the bags they provide for free full of little gemstones. It was the highlight of the experience for him since he loves gems so much! 🗓️ A few quick tips: The tour is summer-only and runs hourly. No reservations are not taken, but the drive out will take you at least 10-15 minutes from Silverton so plan accordingly so you make it for the tour you want. If you only have time for one thing in Silverton, make it this! Walk Around Town One of the best ways to soak in Silverton’s charm is simply by wandering around town. This tiny historic mining town is packed with original buildings, many proudly displaying the year they were built—giving you a glimpse into life in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The main drag, Greene Street, was once the unofficial dividing line in town. On one side lived the law-abiding, church-going citizens—on the other? Well, things got a bit rowdier. Just a block away sits Blair Street, Silverton’s former red-light district. Once home to dozens of saloons and brothels, today it’s lined with shops and eateries—but it still holds tight to its wild west roots with unpaved streets and rustic storefronts that transport you back in time. If you’re a fan of frontier history and small-town charm, don’t rush through Silverton. Give yourself time to wander, imagine the town’s wilder days, and enjoy the preserved character that makes this place so unique. Go For a Hike The Silverton area is surrounded by some of the most epic hikes in the San Juan Mountains, offering stunning alpine lakes, panoramic mountain views, and unforgettable backcountry adventures. Below are a few must-do trails to consider—but keep in mind: these are popular hikes, so start early and remember to Leave No Trace to help preserve these wild places. Ice Lakes Basin 📏 8.6 miles | ⬆️ 3,070 feet elevation gain Arguably the most famous hike in the San Juans—and for good reason. While it was closed for a time following a 2020 wildfire, Ice Lakes Basin is now open and as breathtaking as ever. This trail leads to three brilliant blue alpine lakes, framed by jagged peaks and wildflowers in the summer. It’s still free to hike (for now), but due to its popularity, there’s ongoing discussion about requiring permits—so treat this trail with care and respect to help keep it accessible. Columbine Lake 📏 8.3 miles | ⬆️ 2,933 feet elevation gain This challenging trail rewards hikers with jaw-dropping mountain views and a surreal, turquoise-blue lake at the top. It’s quieter than Ice Lakes but still popular, and the trailhead parking is limited. If you arrive late, you may need to park near the bridge and walk to the trailhead—another reason to get an early start. Highland Mary Lake Trail 📏 4.9 miles | ⬆️ 1,414 feet elevation gain Don’t be fooled by the shorter distance—this is still a solid alpine hike! Along the way, you’ll pass serene high-elevation lakes and take in views that rival the longer hikes. The final stretch of the road to the trailhead can be rough, so 4WD is recommended. If you’re in a lower-clearance vehicle, consider parking 0.7–1 mile away and walking in. Whether you’re chasing turquoise lakes or towering peaks, the hikes near Silverton are pure mountain magic. Just be sure to pack plenty of water, check weather conditions, and hit the trail early