I know what it’s like to work exhausting shifts, juggling patient care with never-ending responsibilities. When I finally get time off, I want my trip to be stress-free, not another thing to manage. That’s why I created this travel planning checklist: a simple guide to make travel easy, even with a busy schedule. Whether it’s a quick weekend getaway or a long-overdue vacation, the key is planning smart. You deserve a break that actually feels like one. Let’s make sure you get it.

1. Pick the Right Destination

How much time do you have? A long weekend? A full week? That’s the first thing to figure out. If you’re only off for a few days, don’t waste half of it on long flights and jet lag. If you’ve got more time, go big since this is your chance. One time, I planned an Italian getaway thinking I’d have plenty of time to relax. Instead, I spent half the trip stuck in airports and dealing with delays. By the time I got there, I had just enough time to sleep before heading back home. Now, I always check travel times before booking anything.

And what kind of trip do you need? After nonstop shifts, maybe all you want is a quiet beach where no one needs anything from you. Or maybe you’re itching for a new city, incredible food, or a little adventure. Listen to that gut feeling because it’s usually right.

2. Book Flights & Hotels

Another thing on my travel planning checklist is knowing that flights and hotels can make or break a trip. Google Travel is your friend when it comes to finding good deals. Booking early saves money, but if your schedule is unpredictable, look for flexible tickets. And before you check out, take a second to see if airlines are offering any healthcare worker discounts. You never know.

For hotels, location matters. Staying near the places you actually want to go saves you time (and energy). I once booked a ‘great deal’ on a hotel without checking the location. Turns out, it was miles away from everything I wanted to do. I spent more on taxis than I saved on the hotel. Now, I always pull up a map before booking. And if you know you’ll be wiped out by the end of the day, spring for a comfortable place. It’s worth it.

3. Take Time Off Without the Hassle

Getting time off as a healthcare worker isn’t always simple. Put in your request as early as possible especially if you’re competing with coworkers for the same dates. Need coverage? Figure that out now, not the night before your flight.

Before you go, set up an out-of-office email. Let people know when you’ll be back and who to bug instead. Future-you will be grateful.

4. Stay Healthy While Traveling

Nobody wants to get sick on vacation. A little prep now can save you a headache later.

Check if you need any travel vaccines, and bring the basics: regular meds, motion sickness pills (just in case), pain relievers, and a few bandages. If you’re traveling internationally, get travel insurance. It’s one of those things you hope you won’t need but if you do, you’ll be glad you have it.

5. Plan Your Budget (Without Sucking the Fun Out of It)

A great trip doesn’t mean blowing through your savings. Figure out what you’re comfortable spending on flights, hotels, food, and activities.

Got travel credit card points? Travel hack it and use them. Traveling abroad? Check if your card charges foreign transaction fees since those little charges add up fast.

6. Pack Smart (a.k.a. Don’t Overdo It)

Overpacking is a rookie mistake. You don’t need your entire closet. Stick to essentials:

• Passport, ID, and travel insurance
• Comfortable clothes and shoes
• Chargers, power bank, and adapters
• Noise-canceling headphones (because flights are loud)
• Skincare and hydration essentials

If you’re staying longer, a lightweight laptop or tablet might come in handy. But honestly? The less you pack, the better.

7. Actually Unplug & Enjoy

This is your time off. Work can survive without you. Avoid checking emails, and don’t let work calls creep in “just for a second.” It’s never just a second. There was a time when I was in Mallorca where I ignored my emails. No notifications, no work stress. It was just me, the pool, and a good drink. I really felt like I was on vacation. Now, I make unplugging a rule.

Do what makes you happy. Sleep in, wander around, try something new. Don’t schedule every second since some of the best travel moments happen when you leave room for them.

8. Make the Return Less Painful

Jumping straight into a 12-hour shift the day after vacation? Brutal. If possible, give yourself a buffer day. Unpack, do some laundry, get back on a normal sleep schedule. Future-you will be very thankful.

Already thinking about your next trip? Good. It’s always nice to have something on the calendar.

Bottom Line

Travel should be fun, not another thing to stress over. This travel planning checklist keeps things simple so you can actually enjoy your time off. Now, where to next?