{"id":13039,"date":"2022-05-25T17:29:41","date_gmt":"2022-05-26T00:29:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.jauntyeverywhere.com\/?page_id=13039"},"modified":"2024-03-13T10:50:05","modified_gmt":"2024-03-13T17:50:05","slug":"planning-a-trip-to-oregon","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.jauntyeverywhere.com\/planning-a-trip-to-oregon\/","title":{"rendered":"Plan a Trip to Oregon"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Vacation planning can be overwhelming and frustrating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The internet’s a double-edged sword; all the information is at our fingertips, and at the same time, ALL the information is at our fingertips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There’s no right way to plan a trip, but we are obsessive planners at Jaunty Everywhere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We believe the anticipation of a trip (and the planning) is at least half the fun.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vacation time is limited, and we want to squeeze the most out of our precious travel days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this travel planning guide, we’ve listed every possible thing we could think of related to travel in Oregon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Will you need to do all these things for every trip? No.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Will you want<\/em> to do all these things for every trip? No.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But you will be able to make an educated decision on what parts of the vacation planning to-do list are helpful and a joy for you, and forget the rest with an easy mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And if you want more?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We’ve included links to further reading about every aspect of vacation planning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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This post contains affiliate links which means if you make a purchase after clicking a link,<\/em> I will earn a small commission, but it won\u2019t cost you a penny more. Thank you for supporting Jaunty Everywhere in this way. Click here to see my full disclosure policy<\/a><\/em>. <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n
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For travel enthusiasts…get our free weekly travel emails full of tips, links, and tools to help you make the most out of every travel experience. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Step 1<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Explore before<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Spend some enjoyable time exploring what type of vacation you want and where you’d like to go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n


Answer these 5 questions.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

What do you want the experience to be like?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When will you go?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Who will you go with?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is your initial budget?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where will you go?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To dive deeper into these questions, see our post:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Picking Your Next Vacation Destination<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n
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\"Haystack
One of Oregon’s most popular beach destinations – Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Top questions people have about Oregon:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

What is the best month to visit Oregon?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

September<\/p>\n\n\n\n

September will reward you with fewer crowds and the best weather Oregon offers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

June – October are also excellent months to visit. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On the west side of the state, occasional rain continues year-round. Temperatures are pleasant most days; you may need a sweater in early June and October. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Temperatures in eastern and central Oregon can soar in July and August, but summer humidity is relatively low in Oregon (despite the rain). <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Autumn, September, and October are glorious everywhere in the Pacific Northwest. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

What is the rainiest month in Oregon?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

December. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

January – April are also pretty soggy on the west side of Oregon. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The east and central parts of the state offer more sunny days but freezing sunny days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you’re a winter sports enthusiast, January – March are your months, offering the best snow conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mt. Hood and Mt Bachelor are top ski areas in Oregon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

How many days do you need to visit Oregon?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A minimum of 10 days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like Washington<\/a> and British Columbia, Oregon is a vast state, 10 days will only scratch the surface, and you’ll have to prioritize your top destinations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Oregon Coast can easily consume 10 happy days. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Or, divide the state into regions and plan return trips!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

What should I not miss in Oregon?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

My top 10 suggestions are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Portland<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

North Oregon Coast<\/a> (Manzanita)<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Central Oregon Coast (Newport)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Eugene<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ashland<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Willamette Valley (McMinnville area)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bend<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Columbia Gorge (Hood River)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Crater Lake National Park<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Silver Falls State Park (Salem)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"crescent
Our favorite beach on the Oregon Coast is Manzanita Beach.<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Step 2<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Learn<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

After deciding on a location, learn more about it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is a significant part of our enjoyment and almost as much fun as the trip itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We learn all we can before to enrich the experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Try these resources for oodles of ideas:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Armchair Travel<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Exploring Cultures and Countries<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Let’s say you plan to spend some time in Portland: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For the young (and young at heart) readers, anything by Beverly Cleary<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/a>\"\"\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Check out an unusual guidebook:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/a>\"\"\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Watch a few YT videos to get familiar with the city:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Portland, Oregon: Cool Things To Do \/\/ Destinations Explained<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Get the Portland puzzle:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/a>\"\"\n\n\n\n

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Step 3<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Transportation:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Plan how you will get to\/from and around Oregon:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Check existing reward accounts for frequent flyer miles.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Take a look at all your credit card reward accounts and frequent flyer accounts, and inventory your points.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep this handy as you do your research.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Plan travel hacking.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Start planning if reward cards and frequent flyer points are part of your strategy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Beginner’s Guide to Travel Hacking: Earning a Free Flight in Under 15 Minutes<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Travel Hacking Resources<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Easiest Way to Practice Travel Hacking with Credit Cards<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

TPG Beginner’s Guide: Everything You Need to Know About Points, Miles, Airlines, and Credit Cards<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Search for flight deals.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Here’s my favorite resource to help you find a good deal on flights:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kayak – Flights<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kayak has a clean, clutter-free look and excellent filters to find exactly what you need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You will most likely fly into Portland International Airport (PDX).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But consider the alternatives:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Portland International Airport (PDX) is our second favorite airport in the PNW. Spokane is our very favorite!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Book flights.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Pull the trigger, push the buy button, and lock it down!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now dance around the house and whoop and holler.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You just committed to travel!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It’s normal to freak out a little.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Book a rental car.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

My go-to resource again is Kayak Car Rentals<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Be sure you are signed up for the rental companies’ rewards program to take advantage of your points.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And, yes, you will need a car in Washington. The only time you can forgo a car is in downtown Seattle. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Prepare your car.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

If you will be road-tripping, service, or get your car serviced.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It’s also nice to give it a thorough cleaning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. Plan how to get to the airport.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

And how to get home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where will you keep your car?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Parking at the airport can be expensive, but there are car lots around the periphery with shuttles and deals to be had if you do some digging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Airport Parking Reservations<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Better yet, ask a friend or family member to drop you off and pick you up – return the favor when they fulfill a travel dream.<\/p>\n\n\n\n


8. Plan how to get to your first accommodation.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Have you ever gotten off a plane and not been tired?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Add unfamiliar surroundings and a possible language barrier, and you have the makings of a family argument.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Welcome to paradise!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To save stress, figure out how you will get from the airport to your first location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pull up the airport map and locate where you need to go to catch a shuttle, Uber, or pick up your rental car.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you’re staying at a hotel, see if they offer an airport shuttle. That’s my personal favorite – it’s practically stress-free.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

No hotel shuttle?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We find Uber or Lyft to be the next best option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Of all PNW cities, Portland has the best public transportation. The MAX light rail system<\/a> is a delight to use. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The downtown Streetcar<\/a> (unofficial) tour is a must.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But still, your ability to see the outlying areas and get out of the city will be dependent on a car. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Portland airport is at the edge of the city; my best advice is to get a car at the airport<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

9. Consider strategic flights.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Creatively using layovers or open-jaw flights can add another location without added time or expense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to see the east side of Washington State or Northern Idaho, use Spokane International Airport (GEG).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you hoping to include British Columbia? Consider flying in or out of Vancouver International Airport (YVR) in British Columbia. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For Washington wine country in the Southeast or Southwest Idaho (Boise), consider Boise International Airport (BOI).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And there’s always Sea-Tac International south of Seattle (SEA) – we try to avoid Sea-Tac. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to Book Open Jaw Flights to Save Time and Money<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n
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\"a
Lowell Covered Bridge near Cottage Grove, Oregon.<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Step 4<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Details, details, details:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Time to get down to the nitty-gritty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are an obsessive planner, you will love this part.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Even non-planners will do themselves a favor by having a backbone of a plan. You don’t want to miss out on the adventure of a lifetime.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vacations: To Plan or Not to Plan?<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Create a rough itinerary.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Once you know your dates and flight times, create a vacation planner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This could be as simple as a piece of paper or as complex as a spreadsheet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the middle, you might use a Google Doc and share it with your traveling partner(s) or keep a list in Evernote.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Yes, we use a spreadsheet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jody has perfected this part of the process, and by the time he’s done, it’s a color-coded piece of art.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It makes a great souvenir.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At a minimum, enter your flights and benchmark days with your general location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can keep fleshing this out with details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Vacation planning with a Google map.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

I resisted this for a long time – sorry, Jody – but I’m sold after a few trips with and without nanny Google.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can get fancy with Google maps<\/a>, using layers, color-coding, and icons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Begin by marking the airport, all lodging, and major attractions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We add all the places we hope to go to, including sights and restaurants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let me tell you about our restaurant plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The worst time for us to pick a place to eat is when we need a place to eat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But even as an obsessive planner, I can’t predict exactly where we will be at the exact moment we want to eat every day of our trip. Sheesh!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Instead, I vet restaurants by checking out blogs and guidebook recommendations. I look at the menu to ensure it’s in our price range; I look at the hours and exclusive deals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Then we mark 2-3 choices per area we plan to sightsee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When it’s time to eat, we find our location on the Google map and see what’s pre-approved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If we find something better or get a recommendation from a local, we follow it, but if not, we have options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

That’s the magic of Google maps<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Check for immunizations<\/strong>.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

The landscape for Covid vaccines changes rapidly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Start with the Centers for Disease Control<\/a> to get the latest recommendations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Locking down more details.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Continue to read and watch – add new places and ideas to your bucket list, the itinerary, and map as you discover them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Get specific, making plans for each day.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Obsessive planners unite.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is where we diverge from the masses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

General plans and rough itineraries are not good enough for us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We need schedules; we need agendas; we need to know where we’re going to be on Tuesday at 2 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ok, maybe not that specific.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Embrace your planning nature and get detailed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Just keep a little sliver of flexibility for serendipity and plans going awry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Book stuff. <\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

I once missed out on a special Monet exhibit in St. Louis. It was very traumatic, and since then, if in doubt, I book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tours, shows, special exhibits, and popular attractions often sell advance tickets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

So I buy ahead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The other thing to watch out for is National Park reservations and permits. This is a relatively new phenomenon the NP system uses to reduce overcrowding. If you need reservations to get into an NP, it can mean planning months ahead and possibly not getting in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check the website of any National Parks you plan to visit well ahead of time for changing requirements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Plan Your Trip to Crater Lake National Park<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n
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\"Edgefield
One of Oregon’s best attractions is the many McMenamins properties around the state (and Washington). This is Edgefield in Troutdale, Oregon.<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Step 5<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Accommodations:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Plan where you will lay your head each night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Do general research on the type of lodging you want.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Different places in the state might suggest very different styles of lodging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Oregon Coast will beg for a beachfront view, while other destinations demand an off-the-main drag, quiet street.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a hotel fan, a vacation home devotee, a camper, or looking for something truly unique?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Consider which neighborhood to stay in, based on activities.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

If you make a beautiful Google Map, you’ll be able to see where you’re going to spend the bulk of your time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Get a general idea of where you want to stay to save time on accommodation searches. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Check reward accounts for hotel points.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

This is our favorite way to stay – free.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We use our reward points strategically – they can be of great value in big cities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We stayed in a $400 a night room for 4 nights in Washington DC – zero out-of-pocket dollars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To be clear, $400\/night rooms do not fit our travel budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here’s our favorite source for hotel reward information:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Award Mapper <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Search for hotel options.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Even if you don’t plan to stay in a hotel, use the Kayak.com search engine<\/a> – you might be surprised at what shows up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Boutique hotels and inns can be affordable and charming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For a clearinghouse of options:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kayak Hotels US<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Search Airbnb (or other rental sites)<\/strong>.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

You can find anything on vacation rental sites, from a spot on the couch to entire luxury villas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Studios, apartments, and vacation homes are great options, especially for groups and families.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Often rentals will give you more space for less money. A kitchen, multiple bedrooms, and laundry facilities can be money-saving options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rental properties are usually in residential areas, allowing you to meet locals, shop like a local, and travel slowly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, rentals often don’t have a pool, maid service, and other conveniences a hotel offers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Prioritize your must-haves. Be clear why you’re looking at rental options – is it the kitchen? More space?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Look at the location very carefully. Google Maps street view can tell you a lot about the area. Take a close look at the nearest commercial center and check out the types of business establishments. Are they the types of places you would frequent?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Read every review of the property. Look for any mention of neighborhood safety, water pressure, privacy, and noise. It can be hard to tell if someone has a legitimate beef or they’re super picky.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

My son-in-law has a great rule of thumb for reviews – he ignores the 5’s and the 1’s and homes in on the 2, 3, and 4-star reviews. This avoids the pollyanna’s and the crack-pots – giving the most accurate picture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We’ve had many great Airbnb and VRBO experiences and one horrible 8-night stay in Boston. In retrospect, I should have given more credence to the reviews.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here’s a red flag:  if the owner argues or justifies every complaint, beware! There’s a fine line between responding to negative reviews with clarifying information and being a jerk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ask about anything that makes you uneasy, and keep copies of all communication with the owner or agent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Overall, we love the option of vacation rentals, but they take additional research if you want to get what you expect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Airbnb<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

VRBO<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Look into house sitting.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Housesitting is becoming a viable option due to a few excellent services linking homeowners with travelers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stay for free to keep an eye on the owners’ property and usually pets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We have never had the pleasure of housesitting, so here’s a great article on Nomadic Matt:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to Become a Housesitter and Never Pay for Accommodation<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

And a few well-respected housesitting sites:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nomador<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trusted Housesitters<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. Look into a home exchange.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

House swapping has been around for many years – even pre-internet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Historically, house swapping has been popular with teachers and professors – having the summer off – swapping homes with other teachers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But house swapping is available to anyone with a place of their own to offer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You get all the benefits of rental homes or housesitting – but while you stay in your host’s house, they stay in yours. Besides the sign-up fee with the housesitting website, the swap is free.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Home swapping sites:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Intervac<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

HomeLink<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Home Exchange <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. Look into camping.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Of course, there’s always camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I hear some people enjoy this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Besides State Parks, National Parks, and County parks, check out:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

HipCamp.com<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hip Camp is like Airbnb for campers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can also rent an RV on RVShare. RVShare is like Airbnb for RVs \ud83d\ude09<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Search for an RV to rent.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

9. Book lodging – with credit card points, reward points, or hard cash.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Finally, after you’ve narrowed down your options – reserve your space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Be sure to save all confirmation numbers and agreement details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And double-check your check-in and check-out date.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n
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\"a
Portland’s Light Rail system (known as MAX) is top-notch.<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Step 6<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Stay organized:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Travel seems to require an encyclopedia of numbers and paperwork.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stay organized to avoid irritating inconvenience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Below is a list of vacation planning tips and hacks to help you keep it all together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Prepare to leave the house.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Create a checklist of things to do to get out of the house.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here’s the one we follow:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Leaving the House – A Vacation Checklist<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Keep copies of all confirmations and receipts.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

You can keep paper copies, but we prefer to keep all the details in a cloud-based storage app – my favorite is Evernote.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

That way, we have all the information available on the go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Evernote<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Get an app like Trip-It to store your itinerary.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Sign up for a travel itinerary app for even more organization at your fingertips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trip-It is the favorite with veteran travelers. There’s a free version, which works great for occasional travel. If you travel a lot or have complex itineraries, the paid version will be worth it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trip-It keeps your flight, hotel, and rental car reservations straight. You can access the app on your phone, laptop, or smartwatch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The app can connect with your inbox and calendar for seamless communication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can share your itinerary – with your travel partners or with someone back home for safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trip-It will suggest hotels and transportation and give you neighborhood safety scores based on your travel location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can even access airport maps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

That’s all included in the free version. Spring for the pro app, and you will be an itinerary Ninja!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TripIt<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Print paper tickets as necessary – flights, events, pre-paid attractions.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Trip-it and your cloud-based record system will cover 90% of your paperwork needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, you might want to print paper copies of key (expensive) tickets. I prefer to have boarding passes and pre-paid tickets to attractions in hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Let your credit cards and bank know if you’re leaving the country.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

If you rarely travel out of state, it won’t hurt to let them know you will be traveling domestically.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Many credit card companies and banks handle this online in a simple form.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Check your cell phone plan.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

For international travel, call your carrier and ask about options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. Get dollar bills for tipping<\/strong>.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Check out our post on tipping in the USA:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Travel Guide to Tipping in the USA<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. Make photocopies.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Copy your passport, travel visa, driver’s license, and credit cards. Be sure to get the front and back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Leave a copy at home with a trusted person and hide a copy in your bag.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If your documents are stolen (or lost), it will be easier to get replacements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

9. Print a paper copy of your travel itinerary.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

We print our Google spreadsheet with all the bits of information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Usually, we consult the itinerary via our phones, but it’s nice to have the hardcopy to see the big picture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

10. Confirm reservations.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Check each flight, car rental reservation, and accommodation a week before leaving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It’s very easy to think<\/em> you booked a room – when in fact, you got distracted and forgot to hit the ‘buy’ button. I’ve done this twice. It’s easier to fix in front of your computer than in the lobby of the un-booked hotel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

11. Check in to your flight online before leaving home.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Double-check the gate and departure time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Most airlines allow check-in 24 hours before the flight, and checking in can impact your seat assignment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 7<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Packing:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Everyone’s  “favorite” sport is packing the suitcase!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Work from a packing checklist.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Working off a packing list is a must.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It ensures you don’t forget anything, but just as important, it helps prevent overpacking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don’t forget the 10 Must-Have Items When You Travel<\/a>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Line up clothes.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

At least a week ahead, pick out your clothes and lay them out on the bed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You will want to do this even sooner if you’re a fashionista.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aim for all your clothes to coordinate. Evaluate every item.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Try everything on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Make a list of items you need (or would like).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In Oregon, you will need a light rain jacket year-round. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Most locals don’t use umbrellas; you can see our PNW post to find out why<\/a>…<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Be sure to check the weather forecast. Just because it’s August doesn’t mean it’ll be warm and dry. And if you explore the coast, rainforest, or mountains, it can be uncomfortably cold if you aren’t prepared.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And don’t get your heart set on needing a bikini at the beach. It’s a rare July or August day when it’ll be warm enough to remove the windbreaker.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Shop for clothes to fill in gaps.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Just be sure to give any new clothes a trial run.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wear it at least once before you pack it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For shoes – give them a substantial test and wear them before committing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Travel shoes are more like a marriage than a date. Pick carefully.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Organize your entertainment.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

An essential skill for travelers is waiting well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It’s much more fun if you come prepared.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gather crossword puzzles, sudokus, or coloring books.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Download audio and e-books – but bring a small paperback too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Line-up podcasts, movies, and music.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Buy a new magazine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Whatever your choice of distraction, treat yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Road trip food and cooler.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Snacks and road trips go together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You might want to pack some basics – like condiments for sandwiches to get you started.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Check out our travel snack posts:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ketogenic Hiking Snacks: Fueled by Fat<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hiking Snacks from Thrive Market<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Snacks for Air Travel<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Day Hiking Food for the Trail<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Pack personal hygiene and beauty items.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

If flying, separate liquid items into a quart-size zip-top bag.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. Pack car.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Whether flying or road-tripping, get everything into the car.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before pulling out of the driveway, have everyone hold up their driver’s license (or ID), passport, boarding pass, and wallet. Put your actual eyes on them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thinking you have these mission-critical documents is different from actually having them. A lesson we’ve learned the hard way!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 8 <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Go!!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Following our vacation planning checklist won’t eliminate every travel planning mistake, but it will relieve many of the unknowns and anxiety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Enjoy these resources as you plan your next trip to Oregon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Further reading<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

What is the Pacific Northwest: For Travelers<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you’re interested in extending your Pacific Northwest Trip beyond Oregon, check out our other travel planning guides:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"stylized<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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\"stylized<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

And don’t forget to sign up for our free weekly travel emails. You won’t want to miss out on all the cool stuff we share about the Pacific Northwest and traveling well!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Vacation planning can be overwhelming and frustrating. The internet’s a double-edged sword; all the information is at our fingertips, and at the same time, ALL the information is at our fingertips. There’s no right way to plan a trip, but we are obsessive planners at Jaunty Everywhere. We believe the anticipation of a trip (and …<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":15410,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.jauntyeverywhere.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/13039"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.jauntyeverywhere.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.jauntyeverywhere.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.jauntyeverywhere.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.jauntyeverywhere.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=13039"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.jauntyeverywhere.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/13039\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":18406,"href":"https:\/\/www.jauntyeverywhere.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/13039\/revisions\/18406"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.jauntyeverywhere.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/15410"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.jauntyeverywhere.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=13039"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}