Learn: How to Plan The Perfect Day Trip

It could be a case of wanderlust. Perhaps it is an unquenchable thirst for adventure. Or maybe it is that Tony and I have been in a season of trying to figure out our next phase of life for so long—that getting away for a vacation feels like a temporary reprieve. Whatever it is, travel is one of our favorite things to do. However, as you know, we can’t all be on a permanent vacation.

Most of us have to work.

That is why, for us, day trips are a close second to vacations. At least once a month, on a Saturday or Sunday morning—or even better, on a Wednesday night (so we can plan)—at least one of us will get that look in our eyes. You know, the look that says,

“Let’s get out of here.”

Then we go through the list of places we could go—nearby cities or state parks, etc.—anything that will offer us a little taste of adventure. Living in the middle of Pennsylvania, we’ve tried to go as doable a distance for a day, in every direction. We’ve been to D.C. for the Cherry Blossoms and the Zoo when the baby panda was born. We’ve driven and hiked through the battle fields of Gettysburg. We’ve been to farmers markets in Amish Country. And we’ve taken a train to Philly, for the art museum, Reading Terminal Market, and the Liberty Bell. We love exploring our world.

But for some, all of these trips may seem expensive. Not only is there the cost of travel—there is also admissions to places and meals for the day. That is why, today I want to share with you a few Tips to Planning the Perfect Day Trip. These are things that have made regular day-tripping affordable and enjoyable for us.

So if you are in need of getting “out of town,” even just for a day, take a look at this list, and then start planning an adventure of your own!

Do A Little Research

Other than transportation, an awesome day trip doesn’t have to cost a lot of money—in some cases it doesn’t have to cost anything. Seek out the best hiking areas nearby. Find out if there are any free museums or events going on in the Cities around you. Often it is the exploration part of the trip that is the best, and can be done without spending a dime.

Pack Water

No matter what time of year it is, we all get thirsty. But if you visit a big city, water bottles can be really pricey. Or, if you’re hiking at a state park, there are only water fountains at the parking lot. Invest in some water bottles of your own, fill them with filtered water, pack them in a cooler, and take them with you. It does take a few minutes before you go, but it will save money and keep you hydrated.

Pack Food

Though eating out is more fun, it isn’t always healthy, can be pricey, and can take time out of your adventure. Pack healthy snacks to keep with you as go, and pack one meal for the day. This will save money, and enable you to splurge later. Tony and I usually pack a lunch, and then find a new and fun restaurant for dinner. We’ve done this so much that two years ago, we invested in these thermoses, so that we can pack left over curry or soup and it stays warm until we’re ready to eat. Just because you’re packing a meal, doesn’t mean it has to be a sandwich.

Wear Good Walking Shoes

To get the most out of your adventure, you want to be able to last all day. And exploring a national park or big city, usually involves being on your feet. Wear your most comfortable shoes for walking—and if you don’t have any, invest in some. It will make all of your day trips that much better.

Pack Extra Clothes For The Weather (or wear layers)

Perhaps it is going to be ninety degrees all day, and you want to wear a fresh shirt to the restaurant for dinner. Maybe it is calling for rain or a drop in temperature. The best way to be prepared for your day trip is to check the weather, and then plan accordingly. Pack an extra shirt, a sweatshirt, or even a change of shoes if your day calls for it. Then, pack a small back pack with the things you will need to carry with you.