Day trips in the summer should be the easiest thing in the world. Pack a bag, head out somewhere fun, eat some overpriced ice cream, and come home knackered but happy. But when you’re the one sorting everything, it can start to feel more like a job than a break. You’ve got to plan, pack, herd people into the car, deal with traffic or train delays, and make sure no one has a meltdown halfway through.
https://www.pexels.com/photo/colorful-beach-scene-with-inflatable-boats-30917063/
Sort the Plan the Night Before
Don’t wait until the morning to figure out where you’re going or how you’re getting there. Even if it’s just a half hour away, take five minutes the night before to look it up. Check if you need to book tickets or parking, find out when it opens, and have a quick glance at the weather. You don’t need to overthink it, just cover the basics. That way, you’re not standing in the kitchen at 9am scrolling your phone while everyone’s asking what’s going on.
Pack Smart and Keep It Light
You don’t need to take the entire house with you. Just think about what will make the day easier. Water bottles, snacks, sunglasses, suncream, and maybe a couple of jumpers in case it turns chilly. Sort the bag the night before and leave it by the door so you’re not doing a mad dash in the morning. If you’re going to be out for hours, bring stuff like a power bank or some wipes too. Not glamorous, but definitely helpful.
Bring the Little Extras That Help You Relax
If you use them, prefilled vape kits are a good shout to bring along. They save messing about with liquids, chargers or bits and pieces that can get lost in the bottom of a bag. Same with snacks. Pick up a few easy bits in the morning, or make a couple of sandwiches to chuck in the cooler. Not every meal needs to be a full picnic. The small things that make you feel more relaxed are always worth it. No one wants to deal with being hungry, thirsty or uncomfortable when you’re supposed to be having fun.
Talk to the People You’re Going With
Even if it’s just one other person, it helps to have a quick chat about the plan. Who’s driving? What time are you leaving? Is anyone bringing anything to share? It takes two minutes and stops a lot of back and forth on the day. If you’re going with kids, talk about the basics with them too. Set a few loose expectations and you’re less likely to deal with complaints later on.
Don’t Stress If It Doesn’t Go Perfectly
You don’t need the perfect day to have a good one. Maybe it rains, maybe someone spills a drink or gets a bit grumpy, maybe you forget the snacks. That’s fine. You can still enjoy it. Most of the time, those little hiccups are the parts you laugh about later. Try not to get caught up in ticking every box. If everyone gets home safe, tired and with at least one funny story, then the day was a win.