The 3 Biggest Travel Planning Mistakes You’ll Make Before Your Upcoming Vacation in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach

Rest and relaxation coupled with a healthy dose of sand and surf is what dream vacations are made of. But, not everyone loves the planning part. Don’t let that keep you from the weekend or week you need to recharge your batteries.

June 17, 2019

Check out these three mistakes to avoid when planning your dream vacation, and soon you’ll be cruising into the best getaway possible.

Did you book direct?

By all means, book your Gulf Shores or Orange Beach vacation rental directly with a local rental management company. They often have specials, discounts and other perks available simply for booking directly through them versus an online travel agent like VRBO or HomeAway. Often the person helping you with the booking will be at the front desk when you arrive, and they are locals. They’ll help you get the scoop regarding the area’s best places to eat, where to view the sunsets and other insider information for your trip.

Did you order a vacation guide?

Your vacation planning is made easy with the 2019 official Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Vacation Guide. This informative magazine includes everything from lodging options, things to do and see, places to eat and even maps to aid in your adventures. When you request your vacation guide, you can choose from brochures geared directly to your vacation needs and remove all the guess-work from your vacation planning. This includes additional information on charter fishing, golf, nature trails and much more.

Did you make a plan with your family?

This is likely one of the most crucial steps in planning the perfect family getaway. Let everyone be involved with planning. Determine how much “planned” activity is desired and how much “free” time is wanted. Balance is a key ingredient in enjoyable travels. Equal parts sand and surf to equal parts hiking and fishing (or whatever adventure floats your boat - no pun intended) is a good goal. Keep in mind that babies and toddlers need naps and snacks more often that older kids and teenagers, so plan with that in mind. With teenagers, a written survey is a quick and easy way to get them thinking about what they want to do, how much pool time they’d like and how adventurous they want to be. Try it!

Remember, planning is the toughest part of vacation. When that’s done, the fun is about to happen! Let us help—view the online interactive guide today!