Although a travel agent can be helpful, it is also possible to plan a trip and tour an area on one’s own. Many people see DIY travel as a way to get off the beaten path and explore a destination while avoiding the typical tourist traps. While on vacation, this type of travel entails a person planning his own transportation, lodging, and sightseeing. Many DIY travelers are on a tight budget and looking for ways to make their trip more enjoyable while saving money.
When it comes to DIY travel, the Internet is a fantastic resource. Most airlines have websites where you can buy tickets, and there are also a lot of travel broker websites that sell airline tickets for the best price. The best airfare deals are usually found during a destination’s off season. Airfares are usually at their highest between Christmas and New Year’s.
A trip’s lodging is an important consideration. User-review websites can assist a traveler in selecting the best accommodations for his vacation needs as well as his budget. A condo or apartment with kitchen facilities may be the best lodging option for an extended trip. Instead of eating out all of the time, the traveler can save money by purchasing and preparing food himself.
Travel guides, including books and websites with information about a destination’s sights and customs, are available for most destinations around the world. A well-written, informative travel guide can be extremely helpful to a traveler both before and during a trip. Not only can such guides inform travelers about the most popular destinations, but they can also point out unique experiences and hidden gems that other visitors may overlook.
Exploring a destination without being part of a packaged tour group is a big part of DIY travel. Sightseeing can be done on foot or in a car in some destinations with the aid of a map and a travel guide. A local guide can be hired for a more in-depth tour in a variety of locations. Prior to embarking on a trip, a traveler should conduct some research to identify sights that may be of interest to him.
Any visas required for travel should be known in advance by a DIY traveler, as they are usually required to be applied for in advance. Vaccinations are also recommended — or required — for some international travel destinations. The government website for the destination usually has information on visas, vaccinations, and any other travel requirements.