The new year is coming up fast and it’s no surprise that many people are gearing up for fresh travel resolutions. Travelers everywhere are ready to see the world. They want new destinations and unexpected experiences on vacations. With so many places to visit, now is the perfect time to add to your bucket list and map out your travel goals. 

Different travelers have varying travel plans and expectations for travel. However, setting travel resolutions can help everyone achieve their travel goals. If you want to see the world more in the New Year, check out these five travel resolutions and tips for setting your own.

Find More Travel Gems Close To Home 

travel resolutions
Photo credit: Orione Conceição

Home is definitely where the heart is and you’ll be surprised by the hidden gems you’ll find right around the corner. One travel resolution to implement in the New Year is to spend time exploring the underrated destinations close to home. Depending on where you live, there may be museums to visit, parks to explore, and new accommodations you’ve never experienced a short distance from your house. The New Year is the perfect time for staycations and day trips. These travel experiences not only showcase the uniqueness of your community but can also help save money. 

Don’t Wait Til You’re Burnt Out To Vacation

Many people use vacation as a way to unwind and destress. However, make a travel resolution not to wait until it’s too late. Instead of waiting until you’re completely burnt out, be proactive about fitting travel plans into your annual schedule. This could look like planning out trips and requesting time off from work months in advance or coordinating with travel buddies on where you’ll be headed as a group next. Allowing yourself to reach a point of mental or physical burnout is unhealthy and it can be hard to bounce back. Instead, make sure travel is incorporated into your agenda from the start of the year. 

Use Travel As A Reward

travel resolutions
Photo credit: Andrea Piacquadio

Planning and experiencing a vacation is a real treat because it creates a sense of accomplishment in the human brain. Using travel as a reward is a great travel resolution because rewarding yourself feels good. According to health experts, rewarding yourself releases dopamine in your brain that can help increase personal productivity and motivation levels. In the new year, use travel as a reward for accomplishing your goals. Keep in mind, that doesn’t always have to be a lavish vacation. Tailor your travel rewards to the size of your goals as you knock them out. 

Treat Yourself To A Luxury Getaway

Luxury travel has been trending on social media all year among Black travelers. Folks are loving the white-glove hospitality, butler services, and plush accommodations that only luxury gives. If you’re typically a budget traveler, consider making a travel resolution to have more luxury travel experiences in the new year. An easy way to do this is by booking a stay at a luxury, all-inclusive resort. This gives you access to a luxury experience with everything in one place. If a resort isn’t an option, consider adding luxury aspects to your vacations like dining at five-star restaurants or booking a first-class flight.

Map Out Your Trips Sooner Than Later

travel resolutions
Photo credit: Ketut Subiyanto

Perhaps one of the best travel resolutions is to plan out trips ahead of time. Travel planning can be stressful. It can be even more difficult when a trip is being planned last minute. Planning out trips sooner rather than later can help decrease travel anxiety and keep your time organized. It also gives travelers something to look forward to as the year progresses.