The Joy of Planning a Trip When You Don’t Have to Book It Yet
As the Christmas decorations twinkle and the fire crackles, Boxing Day offers the perfect excuse to slow down and indulge in a different kind of festive pleasure: dreaming about your next adventure. Without the pressure of booking flights or hotels, you can let your imagination run wild and start building your 2026 bucket list.
In the days after Christmas, it's natural to start thinking about the year ahead. But instead of reaching for your wallet, why not treat yourself to the simple joy of planning travel without deadlines? It's a chance to reconnect with what truly matters to you: rest, adventure, beauty, reconnection, or novelty.
Imagine sinking into your favorite armchair, surrounded by travel brochures, maps, and a steaming cup of coffee. Let your mind wander to the Amalfi Coast, the Scottish Highlands, or the vibrant streets of Tokyo. Which destinations make your heart skip a beat? What kind of experiences do you crave? Do you yearn for relaxation, cultural immersion, or adrenaline-fueled activities?
This is the perfect opportunity to explore trends like slow travel, where you can linger in one place, soaking up the local atmosphere and connecting with the community. Or perhaps you're drawn to meaningful experiences, like volunteering or learning a new skill. Maybe it's time to return to a place that felt like home, or finally visit destinations that have been on your radar for years.
The Beauty of Unpressured Planning
The beauty of planning travel without pressure is that it's a form of self-care, a way to nourish your soul and set intentions for the year ahead. It's not about consumerism or obligation; it's about curiosity and possibility. By allowing yourself to dream without constraints, you're giving yourself permission to explore the world in a way that feels authentic and fulfilling.
Reconnecting with Your Travel Style
As you start planning your 2026 bucket list, take some time to reconnect with your travel style. Are you a city-slicker or a nature-lover? Do you thrive on trying new foods and drinks, or do you prefer to stick to what you know and love? Are you a solo traveler, or do you prefer to explore with friends and family? Understanding your travel style will help you tailor your plans to your unique needs and desires.
Building Your 2026 Bucket List
So, take a deep breath and let your imagination run wild. Grab a notebook or open a spreadsheet, and start jotting down destinations, experiences, and activities that spark joy. Don't worry about budgets or timelines – just let it flow.
Some questions to get you started:
- Where do I want to go?
- What do I want to do?
- Who do I want to share it with?
- What kind of experiences do I crave?
- What are my non-negotiables?
Making it Happen
Once you've got a list of destinations and experiences, start thinking about how you can make them a reality. Break down bigger trips into smaller, manageable chunks, and identify potential roadblocks (hello, budget!). Research, research, research, and start making tentative plans. Remember, this is a journey, not a destination – enjoy the process!
Just for you
By Courtney Evans - December 22, 2025
