Strategies for a Last Minute Summer Getaway

Its happened again.  You meant to plan a summer vacation.  But it seemed like you had plenty of time, and there was always something else to do.  Now, somehow you're staring down the summer months.  No worries:  I've got some tactics for pulling it off, on the double!

Stay Flexible
You may assume that you'll have to be totally open on the dates to be able to take a trip before Labor Day.  But it's actually more important to have wiggle room with the place.  Sure, your heart may be set on an iconic dream destination, but a lot of other people's hearts at too.  You may want to go to Hawaii at the last minute--but that may not be the best idea.  Pick a date range, define the type of vacation you're hankering for; say a beach, hiking, or city wandering.  Then hunt through that wider lens; and even then you should keep an open mind.

Go to Extremes
Focus your search on two extremes; either under-the-radar places or locations where everyone goes.  For example, unknown beach towns can be a little kitschy and maybe a summer fog pattern can roll in, (there's always a trade-off), but then you open the door to your room to a great ocean front view and a quiet beach, and you say to your self, Yes!  Or flip this script completely by taking a chance on a mega-popular family destination like Orlando.  Due to the shear number of guests they expect in the summer, last-minute cancellations can be scavenged.  Places you probably won't have any luck?  Well-loved but small scale destinations such as Cape Cod.

Elevate Your Mind (And Your Family) at a Ski Resort
"Winter" resorts like Vail, CO, and Park City, UT, make for refreshing summer escapes.  They're cooler than a sweltering amusement park, full of adventure sports like mountain biking and kayaking, and relatively uncrowded.  I like to recommend them to my clients because they host plenty of activities, festivals and concerts geared toward families in order to attract more visitors during their downtime.  For families on the run, that kind of no-plan-required fun works out great.

Get a Package from a Pro
For the procrastinating traveler, the issue usually comes down too not enough time.  Now ask your self, do you suddenly have more time to plan all the details for that last minute getaway?  The answer; let a travel professional create a complete vacation package for you.  A travel pro will work with you to create the perfect customized vacation, and handle the details, saving you precious time.  In addition, with their contacts industry knowledge, they have pricing and availability that most people will not find on their own.  The result is a great vacation package that saves you time and money: you just have to pack your bags and go have fun.