Waiting for another long weekend? Here’s how to plan the perfect friends’ escape and do it right

Long weekend travel: Packing last minute is a sure shot way to forget essentials and start your trip on a stressful note. Instead, pack in advance. Make a WhatsApp group and start adding to a checklist of what you’ll need based on the destination and planned activities (Image: Canva)

With the upcoming long weekend, excitement is in the air. You can almost feel the thrill as you start dreaming about how to make the most of the upcoming precious extra days. Long weekends often mean a golden opportunity to escape the daily grind and spend quality time with friends and family to reconnect and recharge.

More than just a break from work, these mini-vacations offer a chance to rejuvenate, both mentally and physically. Rejuvenation is vital in today’s fast-paced world. Studies have shown that taking breaks, especially through travel, can reduce stress, improve productivity, and even enhance creativity. When you’re out exploring new places with your closest friends, the experience becomes even richer. However, for a trip to truly be enjoyable and stress-free, careful planning is essential.

Here are 6 ways to plan your trip efficiently with friends:

Pick the place: To avoid any confusion or last-minute disagreements, it’s important to decide on the destination well in advance. A fun way to do this is by asking each friend to suggest their type of destination; hills, beaches, or historical sites. Write these options on chits of paper. Draw one out, and let fate decide your getaway. This helps ensure everyone feels included, and it eliminates the potential for arguments. After all, the goal is to enjoy the trip together, wherever you end up.

Also see | 15 long weekends in 2024: Bookmark these 15 places to visit in India

Book a home: When traveling with friends, booking an Airbnb can be a game-changer. This way you can stay indoors for chats and movie nights or venture out for local adventures. Plus, Airbnb offers a variety of classy and beautiful options that suit every need. Another perk is the cost-effectiveness. Airbnbs are often cheaper than hotels, especially when the cost is split among friends. Plus, you have the freedom to cook if you wish, or simply order in or eat out if cooking isn’t your thing. The flexibility makes it an ideal choice for group travel.

Share the cost: When it comes to managing expenses, it’s important to decide how you’ll handle costs early on. Going dutch means each person pays for their own expenses, from meals to activities. This can be a fair way to ensure everyone pays for what they actually consume. On the other hand, splitting costs evenly means dividing the total expenses among the group. This can be simpler and often works well when the group plans to share meals and activities equally. Both methods have their benefits, so choose the one that best suits your group dynamics.

Also see | 5 fun ideas to enjoy your long weekend with family and friends without stepping out of home

Pack early: Packing last minute is a sure shot way to forget essentials and start your trip on a stressful note. Instead, pack in advance. Make a WhatsApp group and start adding to a checklist of what you’ll need based on the destination and planned activities. Remember, less is more. Packing light not only saves space but also makes your journey more comfortable. And if you’re going somewhere cold, don’t forget to pack layers!

Hit the road: Since it’s a short trip, consider going somewhere nearby that you can reach by road. Road trips have their own charm; singing along to your favourite tunes, stopping at quaint cafes, and enjoying the scenic routes. Plus, you save time that would otherwise be spent on busy airports or train stations. A road trip also gives you the flexibility to explore off-the-beaten-path locations and make impromptu stops along the way.

Check the weather: Lastly, never forget to check the weather report before you set off. Knowing the weather conditions in advance can help you pack appropriately and plan your activities accordingly. Whether it’s sunny skies or a chance of rain, being prepared ensures that nothing dampens your spirits, or your trip.