36-Hour Vacation Hacks
Experts say with a little strategy, you can turn just 36 hours into a getaway that actually feels worthwhile.
You don’t necessarily need a week off to squeeze in a great vacation. Travel experts say with a little strategy, you can turn just 36 hours into a getaway that actually feels worthwhile — without spending the whole weekend rushing from place to place.
HACK #1: SHORTEN YOUR ITINERARY
Don’t try to cram a week’s worth of sightseeing into a day and a half. Pick the three things you really want to do and plan around those. Experts also suggest choosing your activities first, seeing what neighborhoods they’re in and then choosing your hotel. And remember, you don’t have to travel far — even a nearby town can feel like a getaway.
HACK #2: PACK JUST ONE BAG
For a 36-hour trip, skip the checked luggage and pack as lightly as possible. Wear your bulkiest clothing while traveling, bring pieces you can re-wear or layer and leave the “maybe I’ll wear this” outfits at home. It saves time at baggage claim and makes it much easier to explore after checking out of your hotel.
HACK #3: CHOOSE YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD WISELY
Where you stay can make a big difference when every hour counts. A centrally located hotel may cost more, but it can save valuable travel time. On the other hand, staying in a quieter local neighborhood can be cheaper and give you a more authentic experience — so decide which matters more for your particular trip.
HACK #4: ONLY RESERVE WHAT YOU NEED TO
Don’t schedule every minute of the weekend. Book ahead for things that are likely to sell out — like popular restaurants, timed museum tickets or must-do attractions — and leave room for spontaneous meals and exploring. Experts also recommend scheduling reserved activities in the morning so the rest of your day stays flexible.
BONUS: PLAN YOUR FIRST MEAL AND YOUR EXIT
Know where you’re eating when you arrive so you don’t waste 45 minutes wandering around trying to pick a restaurant. And before the trip even starts, figure out exactly when you need to leave for the airport or head home and work backward from there. That way you’re not ending your relaxing getaway with a frantic dash to catch your flight.
