7 Simple steps to booking a great trip

This January, my boyfriend and I are heading to Budapest for a chill escape—and I couldn’t be more excited. This trip is all about soaking in thermal baths, exploring at our own pace, and, of course, indulging in some amazing food and hunting down some gluten-free sweet treats (of course). Planning a trip is one of my favorite parts of traveling—I love digging into the details so when we get there, everything feels effortless. Here’s how I’m piecing together this Budapest adventure.

1. Finding Flights

First stop: flights! I always keep an eye on flight deals and use Google Flights to compare prices. I’m flexible with travel dates, which helps me snag a good deal. Once I have the flights booked, it’s game on for trip planning.

2. Researching the Vibe

Every trip starts with research. For Budapest, we’re focusing on its iconic thermal baths like Széchenyi and Gellért. Since we’re keeping things laid-back, I’ve been looking into cozy cafes, low-key sightseeing, and maybe a massage or spa day. I also love to explore the city’s history, so I’m adding a few landmarks like Buda Castle and St. Stephen’s Basilica to the list.

3. Mapping Out the Food Scene

Food is a non-negotiable part of any trip for me. We are planning on cooking meals in our airbnb but I can’t help but scour the internet for gluten-free cafes and restaurants, pinning every spot on my Google Maps. My goal is to have plenty of options no matter where we are in the city. Bonus: I’ve found a couple of spots with traditional Hungarian dishes that cater to gluten-free diets, and I can’t wait to try them!

4. Picking the Perfect Stay

Once I’ve pinned my must-visit spots, I look for accommodations that are centrally located. For Budapest, I’m checking areas near the baths and restaurants we want to hit. Whether it’s a cute Airbnb or a boutique hotel, I always prioritize proximity to make everything easily walkable.

5. Packing With Purpose

The next step? Packing! I start by checking the weather in Budapest in January (spoiler: it’ll be cold) and planning what jackets, boots, and layers I’ll need. Then comes the fun part—I create a Pinterest mood board for outfit inspiration. Think cozy sweaters, chic boots, and accessories to keep things practical but stylish.

6. Gathering Insider Tips

I’m all about getting real, unfiltered advice. TikTok is a goldmine for travel tips, and I love searching for blogs for authentic recommendations. Just type “Budapest blog” into Google, and you’ll find plenty of personal experiences to inspire your itinerary.

7. Staying Organized

All my planning goes into a Google Doc, complete with hyperlinks to my research. It’s my one-stop shop for flights, food spots, packing lists, and hotel options. Having everything in one place makes the trip stress-free and easy to navigate.

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Planning this trip has already been so much fun, and I can’t wait to see it all come to life in Budapest. Whether you’re heading out for a solo adventure, a trip with your bestie, or a romantic getaway, taking the time to plan can make all the difference. I’ll share all the highlights when I’m back—stay tuned!