Weekend Vacation: Research your needs

In order to end up with the perfect weekend vacation for you, you have to clearly understand what you are looking for and what options are available to you. This is done by researching in two areas.

Firstly, you research the market to find out what kinds of options are available, familiarizing yourself with the different features, styles and price ranges etc. Secondly, you examine your own unique requirements in a weekend vacation.

Research the market: Weekend Vacation essentials

The first part of the research step is to investigate just what's available in the weekend vacation market. The range of options can seem daunting, but you can make a good start by understanding the following major features:

Type: A weekend vacation does not have to take place on the weekend. The concept of a weekend vacation also encompasses a short trip that begins on a Wednesday or a Thursday (when prices for travel are lower). A weekend vacation can be a simple drive to the country, or it can be a flight cross-country to discover a section of coastline that you have never previously had the opportunity to explore.

Choices: When you book a weekend vacation package, try to plan ahead. Also, try not to only book your weekend getaways during vacation weekends. If necessary, ask your boss if you can work on a vacation weekend so that you can take the one off before or after it. The rush of the crowds on vacation weekends won't allow for much relaxation. If you aren't the type to book ahead, you're not the only one. You can save money by booking ahead, but the most recent trend is to save money on last minute travel deals that include a hotel, flight, and even meals.

Activities & Amenities: Since you are only going away on a short trip make sure to include plenty of downtime, where you will not be rushed to this or that park or zoo. If you are bringing your children or other family members, see if the hotel you will be staying at has the necessary amenities to satisfy everyone.

Budgeting: If you are on a budget, you are going to have to be careful not to splurge. You do not want to spend the next few weeks' salary just to pay off your weekend vacation. Instead, plan something simple and less costly if needed. A two day trip to a local venue or a mid-week camping trip can be highly enjoyable options for the budget-conscious.

Transport: You don't have to fly or drive the whole day to get away. If you do not have a car, you might try renting one or taking public transport. If you have the funds and are traveling by plane, you'll pay less if you book ahead or, if you are a “risk-taker”, take your chances with a last-minute promotional deal online.

Cost: The cost of a weekend getaway vacation will vary. Booking a package through a travel agent will probably cost more than something you have arranged yourself, particularly if you have been on the lookout for special deals. A luxury weekend vacation package that involves some travel will cost you three to five times as much as a less grand respite when staying within three to five hours of your own town or city.

Research your needs: Questions to ask yourself

Now it's time to determine what your requirements are in a weekend vacation. For example, will you use the weekend vacation only for yourself and your partner or are you taking the kids and the dog as well?

You can start this process by considering the following questions - as well as any others you think of yourself - and recording your answers.

Have I taken a weekend vacation before?
	If you have taken a weekend vacation, work out what you did or didn't like about the trip. You may be looking for something exactly like it, hoping to upgrade, or even trying to avoid any particular features that you found inconvenient.

Why do I want to go on a weekend-only vacation?
	You may need a break from the daily routine and are unable to take a longer vacation. Perhaps you'd like to begin exploring local sights and areas that can be comfortably covered in a two day break.

How far should I travel?
	You might consider traveling by plane to some more distant destination if your budget permits. However, if you will be driving, you will eat into your time if you have to spend more than three to five hours in your car; if you love driving and want to simply explore the scenery, then driving time won't be a limiting factor.

How 'first class' do I want to travel?
	Taking a weekend vacation doesn't mean you have to travel in first-class style and comfort. Those on a budget and those with a little more to spend can both enjoy a weekend getaway.

Will I be bringing anyone along?
	Weekend trips can allow you to be flexible. So, you can bring along your partner, friend, child(ren), grandparents or even your dog.

Which type of weekend vacation do I want to take?
	You might want to travel to the nearest big city to visit that amazing library or art gallery and enjoy a theatre performance. Perhaps you'd rather escape to a cosy bed and breakfast in the countryside; there are enormous possibilities for weekend travel.

How much do I want to spend?
	Here is a big question. How much will your budget allow? Think about your budget and how much you are willing to spend. Driving might cost less than flying, unless you find a great deal on airfare.

You may want to fly to that mountain resort and spa for the weekend. But, it may not be what you really need or can afford. If this is your first 'weekend' experience, try to keep it simple!

Understanding your needs is the key to a successful purchase and you can revisit your list of needs at any time during the buying process.

Once you complete this Research step, having informed yourself about the essentials of weekend vacations and identified your needs, you are ready to move on to the next step: Evaluation.

Video Links

Weekend Getaways Destinations For Couples - Info
Informative video discussing some weekend getaway destinations for couples. (3m 44s)