Reader you might need these recommendations sooner than you think!

​
​

I have been working in the travel industry, specifically in Scotland, for the last decade. Today, I want to share some of my favourite tools to help you get the work done. Whether you have already planned your trip, are just starting to map out the itinerary, or are feeling overwhelmed, I have some pro tips – recommendations based on my experience trying various options.

I remember the very first day I decided to plan all my trips for the year. I gave it a go and mapped out all of them. I sat back, looked at everything, and thought, “Wait, you’re joking. Is it really that easy?” It turns out, it was. I learned some trips the hard way, with no time to do it all, but it's so much fun when you are in charge of things you want to see and do.

I was shocked the next time when it took me little time to prepare for another trip.

How often do we choose the harder path because we’re scared of a little change? I believe the answer is: often. However, by utilizing these simple tools, I regained so much of the one thing I value the most—time.

The main goal here is not to add more to your plate or increase the pressure. It is actually to simplify all your plans as much as possible while still ensuring they are easy and appealing. These solutions not only save you time but also enhance your efforts in innovative ways. Take a look!

​
​Create a map

1. On your computer, sign in to My Maps.
2. Click Create a new map.
3. Go to the top left and click "Untitled map."
4. Give your map a name and description.
5. Add layers e.g. places you want to visit e.g. Isle of Skye, Scottish Highlands etc or go by the date of your holiday e.g. day 1 Edinburgh, Day 2 Glasgow etc
6. Add directions - on the right up- just under the search box click on
7. In the box on the left, type your start and end locations.
8. The route appears on your map.
   1. Add another leg to your trip: Click Add Destination.
   2. Change how you get there: Below the layer name, click Driving, Bicycling, or Walking.

Show step-by-step directions: Click More

Create your trip costs sheet

Click the link here to download this template. Click FILE and then MAKE A COPY. Save the copy on your computer, in one drive or Dropbox

Or print out this template and fill it as you go

Decide on the Basic Itinerary

Once you have chosen your destination, start outlining your itinerary. Decide on the towns to stay in during your trip and determine the number of nights to spend in each town.

This plan is not set in stone, but we are progressing towards booking flights to and from the country, and sorting out any internal flights. If internal travel is solely by local transport, there can be a bit more flexibility.

At this point, I like to jot down my thoughts. I begin by listing all the dates I will be away. Knowing the starting and ending points of the trip, I can then outline these locations. From there, I proceed to plan where we will stay each night, adjusting until I achieve the desired balance of nights in each location.

Here's a simple example of a trip to Canada.

I will continue with some more tips next week

stay tuned,

Kate

If you are enjoying the Scotland Itinerary Newsletter I would love it if you could help spread the word about this free email. I have created a sign up page here, feel free to share this page.

I believe that when people come together, great things can happen!

That's how the idea of creating a Facebook group came into discussion. A Facebook group where you can get ideas for places to visit, activities and anything about Scotland. You can get also an early access to guide lunches and exclusive inside news.

I would love for you to be a part of it! To get access to the group, please click the button below

I want to know how I can make Scotland Itinerary Planning Tribe better for you, so please, don't shy away from posting any question you have.

To ensure that our messages arrive (and don't go to your junk or bulk email folders) please add: hello@scotlanditineraryplanning.com to your address book.

You received this email because you signed up for my newsletter, for a freebie or bought one of my products or courses. This email may contain affiliate links

Check out my travel consultation services by clicking here. | Join the Facebook community by clicking here.