2016 New Year's Resolutions

Ready or not, 2016 is here! As you think about ways to improve yourself in the New Year, don’t forget to make travel New Year’s Resolutions! My colleagues at Brownell share seven below.

1. I will use my vacation days. All of them.

Don’t be one of the many Americans that leave unused vacation days on the table. Pick a spot, whether it’s the next city over or halfway around the world, and go. (PS – need ideas? We share where to go based on how much time you have!) 

2. I will stop making dumb travel mistakes.

Forgetting to renew your passport, having to pay excess baggage fees (or load your carry-on with clothes from your checked bag at the counter—the horror!), not telling your bank where and when you’ll be traveling…the list goes on and on. Don’t make these rookie mistakes in 2016.

3. I will step out of my comfort zone.

Far off destinations sound amazing but many people don’t have the guts to get out of their comfort zone. Skip your go-to spot for somewhere a little more exotic and a lot more exciting. That could mean somewhere within a 2-hour flight or across the world.

Cooking school in Rome with an unexpected creature. 

4. I will make my long term travel plan.

We all have dream destinations, but it takes planning to make those dreams a reality. Look at the next 5-10 years and see where the trips can fit in. When you can see where everyone in your family will be in 5 years (kids graduating college = no more summer, winter, and spring breaks!), you’ll realize that big trip you keep putting off needs to happen sooner rather than later.

And if you’re serious about creating and sticking to a long-term travel plan, ask me about the Brownell Bucket List!

On the beaches in France with my little pod. You never get this time back. Go somewhere with the people you love.

5. I will enjoy the trip and share photos later.

This one is especially hard when we’re all used to being constantly connected with each other. But a vacation is for getting away…from email, social media, text messages, etc. So put the phone down, and take a nap on a beach or go on a hike. You can share photos later! 

6. I will embrace different cultures.

Don’t go to a new destination and expect it to be like home. It won’t. The food is different, the customs are different, the dress is different, and the culture is different. And different is good! Don’t compare it to what you’re used to but embrace it. Who knows, you mind discover a new dish, piece of clothing, or custom you want to bring home!

7. I will make travel a priority.

Because material things gather dust, but travel makes memories. Don’t put off getting away and spending quality time with loved ones. Go. Explore. Discover More.

Crossing Lake Titicaca, Peru, with my mom and my big brother. I'll never forget the floating islands and the people.