A mini-break is the ideal getaway option for couples, families and even larger groups if you are short on time but want some much-needed relaxation time. When you are planning a mini-break, it is vital that you create a budget and stick to it, as this will ensure that you can still go home with some money to spare! You should also make sure that you don’t have to travel too far as you want to be able to enjoy yourself without having to spend hours in the air or on the road. Next, consider that wherever you choose, you have enough activities to keep you busy and enjoy yourself, especially if you’re taking the kids with you! Try not to squeeze too many activities in, or else you may come home more stressed than relaxed.
Whatever you are looking for, and whether you want to go away for two or three nights, keep these top tips in mind when you are planning your next mini-break so that you can enjoy a trip that will mean you get back home feeling rested, rejuvenated and ready for anything.
What do you want to do?
Remember that you need to establish what you want to do during your mini-break as you only have a limited period of time while you are away. Do you want to plan a relaxing spa break, during which you do not have to answer any emails? Perhaps you are planning a big night out with your girlfriends and are looking for a location where the nightlife and restaurants are one of a kind? Perhaps you are travelling with kids or your family and want to visit a destination that has a lot of family-friendly places to eat and explore? Make sure that you plan your trip to suit you. Your weekend away will be wasted unless you plan your trip carefully, and prioritise according to your interests.
Pick your destination wisely
If you are planning a weekend getaway, then you need to pick your destination wisely. If you are jetting off to an exotic beach location, then you will need to make sure that you do not travel during the rainy season, or else you risk being stuck indoors in the hotel all weekend. Make sure that if you are planning to travel by car, that you do not spend more than four hours on the road, or else you will be dreading taking the drive home all weekend, and this will put a downer on your weekend. If you are booking a weekend away during the summer then it is also worth checking with the hotel or guest house that you are interested in to see if there are any weddings or big parties planned – or else you may come home feeling more exhausted before you left! Be sure to pick your destination wisely so that you can have a change of surroundings, without having to lose vital relaxation time during your initial travel.
If you are looking to plan a romantic getaway for your wedding anniversary or to mark a special occasion, then you should also ensure that you choose where you are visiting wisely. Make sure that you let your partner help you pick so that you avoid visiting a hotel where either of you has spent time with a previous partner. Finally, to avoid arguments at the airport, make sure that you pack light. You do not really need to take a full suitcase if you are only going away for a few nights.
Read around your location
Once you have chosen your location and worked out what you want to do during your break, you can begin to get the maps and guidebooks out so that you can read more about your location. If you are travelling with little ones, this step is essential so that you can have a range of activities and fun outings up your sleeve, come rain or shine. From museums to petting zoos and even top restaurants, be sure to start your planning and preparing before you leave home. The same rule applies to making restaurant bookings also, in particular, if you are planning to visit a popular establishment on a Saturday night. Read around your location to avoid being disappointed and make sure that you visit everything on your list.
Choose your accommodation
Finally, make sure that you choose and book your accommodation with plenty of time to spare. Sites such as American Patriot offer a range of cheap weekend getaways cabin ideas, to help you connect and unwind back in nature. You can use online websites such as Booking.com or Air BnB to browse a range of hotels and guesthouses, depending on your budget and preference. Remember, if you are travelling during school holiday time, you will have to spend more on your accommodation, so it pays to choose less popular times if you are short on cash.
If you are short on time and are looking to get away for a few days, then a mini-break could provide you with the change of scenery and chance to recharge your batteries that you need. Remember that you only have a short period of time to enjoy yourself and relax, so you need to decide what type of break you are having before you start making any concrete plans. Be sure to pick your destination wisely, and do consider just how much time you will spend travelling, as this will affect your overall break. Make sure that you research your location and book any restaurants that you want to visit to avoid disappointment. This step is vital if you are travelling with energetic kids so that you can plan which attractions to visit. Finally, make sure that you book your accommodation in time. From cabins to a luxury hotel, take your time when browsing so that you find the right option for you and your needs. Now you can get packing and sit back and relax; you may not have much time so make sure that you make the most of it!
