/Don’t stress it, plan it

MORE than one third of us find planning for a holiday stressful, according to new research. Travel search site momondo.co.uk have found that all the different elements that go in to planning the perfect break, from calculating the budget and deciding upon the destination, to finding the right flight and hotel, and then eventually packing for the holiday itself, can all take their toll. Now they have created a list of top tips to help minimise the stress of planning a get away. 1. DO A BIT OF HOMEWORK Planning ahead when it comes to booking flight and hotel can save you. As a golden rule, it is cheapest to book flights 56 days in advance. 2. MAKE A LUGGAGE CHECKLIST Spending ten minutes making a luggage checklist is time well spent. It will spare you from the last-minute panic-stricken ordeal of throwing everything you own into the suitcase. 3. AVOID LAST MINUTE AIRPORT ARRIVAL You’re not the only one rushing through the airport during the summer months, so start your travels off on the right foot by heading to the airport early. 4. LESS IS MORE Once you’re arrived at your holiday destination, don’t make an effort to fill the days with as many plans as possible. 5. UNPLUG Sharing a photo on Instagram of that amazing ice cream you just had, a holiday status update on Facebook or quickly replying to that work email; Spending the holiday online is easy, but to get a more relaxed time off, try unplugging for a bit.