Long-Term Travel Guide: How to Plan for Long-Stay Vacations

Sometimes, a week-long vacation is not enough to relax or explore different places. Long-term travel—living like a local for months or even years—is becoming increasingly popular. Remote work opportunities and a growing desire for experiential adventures are fueling this trend. 

Imagine sipping coffee in a Parisian cafe every morning or volunteering at an elephant sanctuary in Thailand—these are the kinds of experiences long-term travel unlocks. 

However, before you pack your bags and book a one-way ticket, remember that successful long-stay travels require careful planning. 

This blog will guide you through everything you need to consider, from budgeting and visas to finding the perfect home base. By following this advice, you can have an enriching and unforgettable long-term travel adventure.

What is Long-Term Travel?

Long-term travel means spending weeks, months, or even years exploring many places and immersing yourself in different cultures and experiences. Many people do it to:

• Change their perspective
  Long-term travel broadens horizons, challenging preconceptions and fostering a deeper understanding of global diversity.
• Learn new languages
  Extended immersion in foreign environments facilitates language acquisition through real-life practice and interaction.
• Take care of their physical and mental health
  Long-term travel provides an escape from stressors, promoting physical well-being and mental rejuvenation through outdoor activities and new experiences.
• Make new friends
  Prolonged travel encourages meaningful social connections and friendships with like-minded individuals from around the world, enriching the overall experience.

What are Long-Stay Vacations (Extended Stays)?

An extended or long-stay vacation is usually around 14 days. It allows for relaxation and new experiences without a fully packed itinerary.

While a long-stay vacation may seem similar to long-term travel, they actually differ in purpose and scope. In simple terms, the latter is about exploring, while the former is about unwinding in one place. Nonetheless, both allow you to break free from the monotonous flow of life.

5 Ways to Plan for Long-term Travel

Going on a long trip also requires a lengthy planning period. Follow the tips below before riding a plane or car and seeking escape.

1. Set goals

While going on a spontaneous trip sounds fun, it can easily turn sour if you don’t have a roadmap on hand. Hence, you must identify what you want to achieve or experience during your journey.

Setting clear goals can help you prioritize activities, allocate resources effectively, and enjoy a travel experience tailored to your interests and aspirations.

For example, creating a budget allows you to avoid overspending on unnecessary things. You should manage your money well, especially in countries with currency exchange challenges or limited banking services.

2. Choose the right destination

What kind of places do you want to visit? Do you enjoy being in the city more or around nature? When choosing your travel destinations, consider factors such as your interests, budget, safety, weather, and visa eligibility if you’re traveling abroad.

Research different places to find one that aligns with your preferences and offers diverse experiences that you will enjoy exploring over an extended period. 

Suppose you want to stay within Metro Manila. You can get a hotel in Greenhills, San Juan, which is near malls like Greenhills and SM Megamall, as well as historical sites like the Pinaglabanan Shrine and El Deposito.

3. Explore accommodation and transportation options

Planning for a long-term trip doesn’t just involve picking travel destinations. It’s best to research lodging and transportation options, too, since they can make or break your travel experience.

Look for accommodations that offer long-term stay discounts or rentals that provide the amenities and comfort you desire. You can also choose between hotels, serviced apartments, or vacation rentals—it all depends on your budget and preferences.

Similarly, explore local buses, trains, or rental cars to facilitate seamless travel within and between destinations. You can actually plan your fares since some countries’ transit companies allow you to plan routes and book trips on their website. 

4. List travel essentials

Whether you visit many places or book a long staycation, you should pack wisely to avoid bringing heavy bags or spending more than you should during your trip.

Some items you should put in your travel bag include:

• Clothing - Pack loose clothes for warm climates and coats and thermal wear for colder places.
• Toiletries - Bring shampoo and body wash in travel-sized containers, toothbrush and toothpaste, sunscreen, and other hygiene products.
• Washable or reusable items - Opt for reusable water bottles, foldable shopping bags, and quick-drying towels.
• Medications - Bring pain relievers, antihistamines if you have allergies, bandages and antiseptic wipes, and any prescription meds you may have.
• Essential electronics - Carry your phone charger, a universal adapter, a power bank, and headphones or earphones.

5. Prepare important documents

Ensure you have all necessary documents in order before embarking on your journey. This includes obtaining visas, securing travel insurance, and getting essential vaccinations or health certificates for your destination/s.

Organizing these documents ahead of time helps prevent last-minute hassles and guarantees smooth entry and stay in your chosen locations.

6 Things to Look for in Long-Term Travel

The factors below can significantly affect your long trip. Consider them carefully to enjoy your week- or month-long vacation to the fullest. 

1. List of activities

When planning a long-term vacation, you must research and compile a list of activities and attractions available at your destination/s.

An itinerary ensures you have various options to keep yourself entertained and engaged throughout your stay, whether it is exploring historical sites, enjoying outdoor adventures, or immersing yourself in local cultural experiences.

2. Utilities

Whether you are staying in a hotel or a bed and breakfast, remember to confirm the availability and reliability of utilities such as electricity, gas, water, and internet access. This way, you can have a comfortable and convenient stay.

This factor is especially important if you are a digital nomad. You need stable electricity and an internet connection to work as needed.

3. Healthcare

Anything can happen during your trip. You may get diarrhea from eating something unsanitary or get sick from weather changes. Hence, you should check the healthcare options at your preferred destination/s in case of medical emergencies or routine healthcare needs.

Remember to research local hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and health insurance coverage to ensure access to necessary medical services and medications throughout your stay.

4. Money

Since you will be traveling for weeks or months, it’s best to be financially secure throughout your trip. Research currency exchange rates, banking options, and budgeting strategies to easily access funds and make seamless financial transactions wherever you go.

One thing you should do is carry a mix of cash and cards since not all commercial establishments offer the same payment methods. In fact, cash is still the primary payment method for stores across the world, including countries such as Thailand, Malta, and Slovenia.

You may encounter street vendors that only accept cash or smaller businesses that don't accept cards, so having both options ensures you are prepared for any situation.

5. Travel style

Do you want to try backpacking or opt for a luxury trip? How you travel can significantly affect your experience. For instance, backpacking usually means traveling with minimal luggage and staying in hostels or camping.

Conversely, luxury trips include indulgent accommodations, fine dining experiences, and personalized services catered to your comfort and convenience.

No travel style is better than the other. It is all just a matter of choosing one that fits your budget and preferences.

6. Communication plan

When you travel, you will need different networks for texting, calls, and internet access. Consider exploring SIM card or portable Wi-Fi options wherever you go.

Also, be aware of app restrictions in certain places; for example, WhatsApp, YouTube, and Instagram might not work in China, but you can use WeChat, Weibo, TikTok, or Douyin instead.

Lastly, if you have a cellphone plan, review roaming packages to avoid extra charges for international use.

How to Choose the Best Long-Stay Vacation Package

When it comes to lodging, you must get the best deal possible. After all, whether you’re staying for a week or a month, you want to go home to a relaxing place. Check the tips below when choosing your long-stay vacation accommodation. 

1. Explore flexible booking options

Your itinerary and travel dates may change due to unexpected circumstances like a medical emergency or accident. Hence, look for vacation packages that offer flexibility in booking dates so you can adjust your travel plans without incurring penalties or fees.

Let’s say you plan to stay in a hotel in Tagaytay for a few days, but you are held up in Metro Manila due to some urgent work. See if your accommodation allows you to change your reservation easily or offer refundable deposits. This way, you can have some peace of mind during unexpected circumstances.

2. Check extended stay offers

Take advantage of vacation packages specifically tailored for extended stays, as they often come with discounted rates or exclusive perks for guests staying longer durations.

At Summit Hotels, for example, we offer special room-only rates for bookings with a minimum of 14 nights. Our Summit Long Stays package ensures you can enjoy a more affordable and convenient staycation experience.

3. Read reviews

Before finalizing your booking, take the time to read reviews from previous guests who have stayed at the accommodations included in the long-stay vacation package. Review cleanliness, staff friendliness, location, and overall satisfaction feedback to ensure your accommodations meet expectations.

Don’t just look for reviews on Google and the lodging’s social media pages—look up posts on Reddit or TikTok for genuine feedback.

Considering others’ experiences can help you understand the quality of the accommodations and amenities offered and avoid potential disappointments during your extended stay.

4. Compare prices

When choosing the best long-stay package hotel, you should compare prices across different providers to ensure you are getting the best value for your money. Take into account factors such as accommodation quality, included amenities, and duration of stay.

Some places even offer discounts for specific periods. You can take advantage of them to save money.  

Additionally, check for additional costs such as taxes or mandatory gratuities to fully see the total cost of the package. Comparing prices identifies the most cost-effective option that aligns with your budget and preferences for an extended vacation.

5. Read the fine print

Don’t confirm your reservation just yet. Carefully review the long-stay vacation package terms for restrictions, cancellation policies, or additional fees.

Pay close attention to details such as minimum stay requirements, blackout dates, and payment deadlines to know any limitations or obligations associated with the package. This way, you can avoid surprises by understanding package terms for confident long-term vacation planning.

FAQs

1. How long before a trip should I start planning?  
   Start planning your trip around six months before for international travel and four months for domestic trips. For longer trips, plan 6-12 months. If it is a shorter trip, one to three months of planning is enough.
2. What is considered long-term travel?
   Long-term travel doesn't have a set time. Some define it as traveling for over three or six months, while others extend it to one or two years.
3. How do I take a year out and travel?
   Set goals and research destinations based on your interests. Plan early, considering factors like visas, healthcare, and finances. Decide whether to travel solo or with friends. Book flights, accommodation, and travel essentials, and prepare for your return upon completion.
4. Is it possible to go on a long-term vacation with pets?
   Yes, it is possible to travel with pets. Just remember to check in with airlines and accommodations about their specific policies. Fortunately, Summit Hotels is a pet-friendly hotel in the Philippines, allowing you to enjoy your trip without leaving your animal companions behind.

Take the Break That You Deserve

Going on a long-term travel journey can be immensely fulfilling. It offers a chance to escape life's stressors, enrich your days with new experiences, and learn about different cultures. 

As you plan your next adventure, consider Summit Hotels for your long-term stay. With our vacation promos, you can enjoy extended relaxation and exploration without breaking the bank.

Looking for your next rejuvenating long-term stay experience? We think you’ll be amazed at what Summit Hotels Dumaguete has to offer!

Start planning your dream getaway today. Your adventure awaits!