5 Tips for the Best Whirlwind Trips
Today, I'm talking about taking those crazy trips that are short and full because you just don't have the time to be there for long. Mine tend to be 24-48 hours in a city. I know, I know. I'm a bit crazy to take them, but I've taken several for various reasons from a last minute idea to go see the taping of a show, to going to a bridal party, to a bachelorette party, or just to have a day in a city I've always wanted to visit. These are the trips that make for good stories in the future. So how do you not hate your life before, during, and after a whirlwind trip?
1. Take a deep breath.
Everything may or may not go exactly as planned. My first whirlwind trip was to go see the taping of a show. We were 3 people away from getting in. I was not prepared for things to not go as planned and it almost ruined the whole trip. When things go wrong, you can give into the sadness for a moment, but then take a breath. I guarantee that there is something else that you can do that will make it an enjoyable trip. For us, we went back to the hotel, took a breath and then went to the Hollywood strip. It was a really great time of sister bonding even though we didn't do what we intended for the day.
2. Wear multifunctional clothes.
When you are planning to go somewhere right from the airport, life is much easier if you don't have to find somewhere to change or settle in. Travel in something comfortable and appropriate for where you are headed. I have some amazing travel dresses with pockets that are so comfortable and look fabulous. If I had known this one sooner, I probably would've made it in to the taping of the show!
3. Pack light
You won't be there long. Make your life as easy as possible and take only the essentials. I'm pretty sure packing light in the bag also lightens your mental load.
4. Make note of one exceptional moment.
Your time will be full and it might all blend together if you let it. Make sure to stop extra long for one of the best moments. If you've ever seen Elizabethtown, Kirsten Dunst's character always uses her hands to frame an image and makes a clicking shutter sound. I love doing that. I love smelling the air, listening to the sounds, and just being completely present for a moment. Try it at least once. Be in a moment that you will remember and take it with you from your whirlwind adventure. If you can, take a few of these moments.
5. Plan your rest for when you get home.
Nothing is worse than being on your return flight dreading the exhaustion that awaits you. You probably don't have a full day off to recover, but plan to use your time wisely. Plan to come home and take a relaxing bath, then go to bed. Or plan some takeout with some netflix and chill to relax. However you get your mojo back, plan it into the next day or two!
When you love to travel as much as I do, some trips will be a whirlwind. It's not always most ideal, but life is what you make of it. I prefer to dream. go. Simply Adventure.