What People Get Wrong About Travel Goal Setting
And what I do every year to maintain clarity and focus.
When I set out on my first solo trip in 2014, I had no idea it would change my life and reshape my approach to setting and achieving goals.
Realizing my dream of visiting Paris taught me the transformative power of setting travel goals and diligently working to achieve them.
January is a time for setting intentions for the future. I'm sure some of these goals are travel-focused.
Like many of you, I have some audacious travel goals. For instance, I aim to spend $0 on travel costs this year using my points and miles stash to cover airfare and hotel expenses.
I know…it's a bold plan, but one that's entirely feasible with the right strategies and mindset.
Curious to learn more? Read all about my 9-step framework for achieving travel goals.
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Based on these insights, let’s discuss the common misconceptions about setting travel goals and how to avoid them.
1. Lack of Specificity
One of the biggest mistakes people make is setting vague travel goals, especially if they aren’t frequent travelers.
Instead of clearly defining specific destinations, activities, or experiences they want to prioritize, many leave their goals open-ended.
If you are saying “one day” or “someday,” stop that right now.
This lack of clarity can lead to a lack of motivation and never crossing that precious item off your wish list.
To combat this, take the time to dream big and think through exactly what you want to achieve.
Whether you want to spend 5 days in Iceland, cruise, or travel solo for the first time, specificity is key.
2. Neglecting to Write Goals Down
Another common pitfall is failing to document travel goals.
Writing down your goals makes them real.
It gives your ideas a physical presence in the world, helps solidify your intentions, and keeps them visible.
This visibility can remind you what you’re working towards. I’ve found that it also motivates me to take action.
To keep your travel aspirations front and center, consider using sticky notes, a vision board, or print out my travel goals checklist.
3. Ignoring Financial Planning
Understanding the costs of lodging, transportation, and other expenses is crucial for creating a realistic travel budget.
Research potential travel costs early on, focusing on key areas like accommodation and transportation (airfare, train, car rental, cruise).
This groundwork will help you later set a savings goal that aligns with achieving your travel dreams.
4. Not Setting a Timeline
Setting a timeline adds a sense of urgency and helps keep you accountable. Without deadlines, it’s easy to procrastinate or lose focus.
Whether planning a trip for next year or a few years from now, having a target date helps you have something to look forward to.
5. Overlooking Potential Roadblocks
This one is a biggie!
Many people do not take the time to identify potential obstacles that could hinder their travel plans.
Recognizing these roadblocks in advance allows you to brainstorm solutions and prepare for challenges.
Being proactive about potential hurdles, such as time constraints, financial limitations, or logistical issues, can significantly improve your travel planning.
For this reason, I intentionally included a section in my travel goals printable where you can jot down potential obstacles and solutions.
6. Being Inflexible
Lastly, life is unpredictable.
Sometimes, you need to pivot or pause your plans. Embracing flexibility can help you roll with the punches without losing sight of the big picture.
With these strategies at the forefront of your mind, you’re well on your way to turning your travel dreams into reality, and I cannot wait to see all the places you visit and the memories you create this year.