From budgeting to lodging, how to plan the perfect vacation

Who doesn’t love a good vacation? The most popular vacation months are June, July, August and September, so now is the time to start planning your dream vacation. Whether you want to travel the world or just the country, it’s important to plan out your trip so you get to do everything you plan to do and maybe even more.

Planning a trip involves foresight. You have to book flights or plan for how you’re going to get there. You may need a hotel or a place to stay. Not to mention, you have to be sure to make time for the different sights you may want to see.

Better Business Bureau offers these tips to plan the perfect getaway:

Decide where you want to go and how long you plan to be there. Make sure you budget your stay accordingly.

■ Start putting money away early so you’re able to do everything you hope to do.

■ Be specific in your searches. Specific phrases can help you narrow your accommodation searches to the best deals and avoid shady websites.

■ Keep an eye out for deals. There are plenty of websites to help you get great deals on hotels and flights.

■ Consider a travel rewards credit card to boost your savings.

■ Book in advance so you can look for the best price available.

■ Watch out for travel scams. Ignore letters or phone calls claiming you’ve won a free trip you didn’t sign up for.

■ Consider travel insurance. Make sure it covers all possible issues that may come up with your trip, including pandemic-related cancellations.

■ Ask friends and family who have visited your intended destination what they liked most about their trip. Or, consult a travel adviser to see what other people have enjoyed.

■ Be sure to research any experiences or accommodations you plan to book. Read reviews from others who have traveled there.

■ Pack as lightly as you can, so you save on luggage fees and have room to bring items you buy to take home.

■ Pay with credit card for protection if something goes wrong with any reservations.

■ Use your hotel safe to store your valuables within your room.

■ Get all the details of the trip in writing. This should include the total cost, restrictions, cancellation penalties and names of the airlines and hotels.

■ Wait to post on social media until after you return home, so thieves don’t know your house is empty.

For more on vacations, visit BBB.org or call 937-222-5825 or 800-776-5301. BBB can provide lists of BBB Accredited Businesses in the industry and Business Profiles on ones you may be considering.