Planning a hard-earned getaway is no simple task. From choosing a destination, to finding and booking accommodation and creating an itinerary, there is plenty to do and lots to organize. Luckily, it may not need to be the exhausting challenge you expect.

Here are five foolproof tips for preparing for your next vacation abroad.

CHOOSING YOUR DESTINATION

If you’re keen to save money, avoid choosing your vacation destination based on emotion. The best way to find a great deal is to visit a website that specializes in vacation packages and have a look at the current deals that they have on offer. These deals will undoubtedly be endlessly less expensive and will provide you the opportunity to explore a new culture that you perhaps never would have thought of before. If you’re feeling daring, you may even be able to save more by springing for a ‘last minute’ holiday package.

DECIDING WHEN TO GO

If you follow the advice mentioned above, this is likely to be decided for you. However, if you opt to plan your own custom holiday, the best time to visit practically any popular destination is during off-peak season, naturally. The prices will be cheaper and the crowds not nearly as claustrophobic. Worried about the weather? Fear not. There are plenty of holiday destinations that boast consistently warm and pleasant weather throughout the year.

TAKING TIME OFF WORK

Requesting to take time off work can be the most challenging aspect of planning a vacation, especially if you work a stressful job where employees are minimal. A study conducted by Project: Time Off (an organization focused on improving people’s work culture) reported that Americans lost 222 million unused vacation days over the course of the year due to work pressures. Avoid being denied your vacation days by writing a clear letter of request that details how you plan to resolve any potential issues leading up to your departure, such as handing over any current projects to a colleague, and ensuring that you are always reachable via email while you are away.

ORGANIZING YOUR TRANSPORT TO THE AIRPORT

You could go the conventional route and call an Uber, or you could opt to maximize your vacation experience by traveling to the airport in style. Companies like Denver airport car service specialist, Denver Airport Limo, allow you to hire a limousine to take you to the airport. If that seems a bit extravagant, these companies also offer a reliable car service which is likely to be substantially cheaper than Uber rates.

BOOKING YOUR FLIGHTS

The number one rule is to book as early as possible – but that definitely isn’t the only way to save money on your flight tickets. Many frequent travelers recommend that you book your flights midweek. Many airlines release their specials on a Tuesday or Wednesday. If you can avoid it, definitely steer clear of flights that depart on a Friday or a Saturday as these will almost always be the most expensive.

Here’s to a more streamlined planning phase and a truly incredible getaway!