To Plan or Not To Plan?

That is the question: Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer the slings and arrows of outrageous spontaneity, or to take arms against a sea of uncertainties, and by planning, end them?

When preparing for a trip, travelers generally fall into two categories: “planners” and “pantsers.” Leave the indecisiveness to Hamlet and learn which approach is the best fit for you.

What is a Planner?

People who plan trips tend to be those who prefer structure, organization, and having a clear idea of what to expect. They often value detailed itineraries, knowing where they’ll be staying, what attractions they’ll visit, and what activities they’ll participate in. Planning allows them to feel prepared and in control, and they may enjoy researching destinations and creating a well-thought-out travel experience. People who plan trips are often more risk-averse and prefer to minimize uncertainties.

The main advantages of planning include:

1. Organization: Planning allows you to have a structured travel experience, ensuring that you cover all the destinations or activities you desire. It helps you make the most of your time and resources.

2. Availability: Booking accommodations, tickets, or reservations ahead of time ensures availability, particularly during peak seasons or for popular attractions. This can save you from the disappointment of missing out on key experiences.

3. Budgeting: Planning in advance enables you to estimate and allocate your travel budget more accurately. You can research prices, compare options, and make informed decisions to control your expenses. Purchasing tickets in advance can also be cheaper.

Planning can have drawbacks, however. Overplanning can lead to a rigid itinerary that leaves little room for spontaneity and flexibility, and if things don’t go according to plan, it can cause frustration and anxiety. Planning a trip from the comfort of your home, away from the fatigue and jet lag you may feel on the road, can lead you to fit too much into a limited timeframe. Rushing from one activity to another without allowing time for relaxation and reflection can detract from the overall enjoyment of the trip.

What is a Pantser?

Pantsers are people that improvise their trips. They embrace the element of surprise and enjoy the freedom of not being tied to a strict itinerary. Being comfortable with uncertainty and open to exploring new opportunities as they arise, they are often more spontaneous, flexible, and adventurous than planners. Pantsers are often more comfortable with last-minute changes, unexpected detours, and relying on their instincts to guide them. They may find joy in discovering hidden gems and immersing themselves in local cultures without the constraints of a predetermined plan.

Here are some advantages of being a pantser:

1. Flexibility: Winging it allows you to be more flexible with your itinerary, giving you the freedom to change course or explore unexpected opportunities as they arise. It can be exciting to embrace the unknown and discover new experiences.

2. Serendipity: By not having everything prearranged, you open yourself up to chance encounters and serendipitous discoveries. You may stumble upon hidden gems, connect with locals, or encounter unique events that aren’t mentioned in guidebooks.

3. Reduced Stress: Planning every detail can sometimes feel overwhelming. Winging it can alleviate some stress associated with rigid schedules and deadlines. It allows for a more relaxed and spontaneous travel experience.

However, winging it also has potential drawbacks. It may lead to challenges such as difficulty finding accommodations, long wait times, or missing out on popular attractions due to limited availability. Additionally, if you have a specific destination or activity in mind, not planning ahead may result in disappointment or logistical hurdles.

Which is best?

Unfortunately, there is no right answer. If you take any world-traveler, chances are they’d fall into the planner category, while the average weekend-wanderer would more likely fit into the Pantser category. It’s probably safe to say, however, that most successful trips are planned to some extent, with many travelers finding a balance between the two, planning the essentials while leaving room for spontaneous exploration.

For me, I’m a planner. I enjoy scouring maps and researching locations before I get there. The more time I spend I spend stressing over details in the comfort of home, means the less time I have to spend stressing about them after the fatigue of travel sets in. But, that’s not to say I plan every detail.

It’s important to strike a balance between planning and allowing for flexibility during your trip. If you’re new to traveling, simply do what you feel is best, and find a sweet spot that suits your personal preferences while leaving room for spontaneity and genuine experiences..