Plan A Vacation.. It will make you feel better!

A surprising article in The New York Times reveals that planning a vacation actually makes you happier than taking the trip. It’s true: you’ll feel better simply by booking your flight and hotel. That upbeat, pre-trip outlook can last up to eight weeks and will continue during your travels. When you return home, your happiness levels will return to normal. That is, until you start looking forward to your next holiday.

Travel strategies
Researchers found that while happiness levels increase as you anticipate your vacation, they do return to normal levels when you get back to the stress of work and everyday life. What does this mean?

It may mean that, practically, you should plan several vacations throughout the year to experience the maximum mood-elevating bump from travel anticipation. You might try splitting your vacation time into shorter trips you could take more often, for instance. You could plan three-day weekend trips every couple of months. That way, you could experience the mental health benefits of trip planning year-round.

Though the article doesn’t specifically mention it, it’s wise to plan a vacation that’s a fun, pleasant event. (Skip the visit to your cranky in-laws’ house.)

Research your route
Since researching and planning your trip is the most beneficial part of the process, spend some time online looking for new travel ideas. Dig in to travel blogs and learn about the newest hot spots. Hit the newsstand to pick up popular travel magazines like Budget Travel or Travel & Leisure. You might even stumble across some publications that focus on specialized vacations like scuba diving or adventure travel.

These blogs and magazines are written by experienced travel writers who keep their eyes peeled for the coolest hotels, cities, beaches and adventures. You’ll also find reviews of local lodging and restaurants. Once you book your trip, keep researching restaurants and activities for the latest reviews. Dreaming about your trip for a few hours every week guarantees you’ll feel better as you imagine how your getaway will go.

Vacation, take me away!
Convinced you need to get away right now? Then hop online and start clicking. There are fantastic sites featuring travel deals that you can take advantage of immediately. Check out Last Minute Travel for insider info on cheap vacations to destinations where the hotels aren’t full and can offer lower rates. Living Social Escapes is another smart site to find discounted weekend getaways in unexpected locations like a historic mansion in Richmond, VA, or a hot air balloon trip in Temecula, CA.

Travel Zoo also offers amazing deals on vacation packages around the world, including bargains on resorts from Las Vegas to the Virgin Islands. Don’t forget to look at newsletters from your favorite airlines and credit cards, like Delta Vacations and American Express Vacations. They often have deals with travel partners for discounted lodging and activities. If you need to get out of town ASAP, opt for a road trip to a nearby historic site or unusual roadside attraction. (Nobody wants to miss our nation’s smiley face water towers!)

The secret to happiness is planning a vacation, and the more vacations you book, the better you’ll feel. Quick – book your trip now and experience the instant mood lift!