If you've ever made plans to take a dream vacation to somewhere you've always wanted to go, you definitely realize that careful planning that is required to make a dream vacation a success. It's not just a matter of booking the flight and showing up. If you want a positive experience, you need to plan carefully. That doesn't mean you can't leave certain parts of the trip up to chance or spontaneity, but there are a few things you shouldn't leave up to chance.

The most important is obviously your transportation to your destination. If you're flying in to your destination, you'll want to make sure to book your flight in advance. Flights are usually cheapest a few months prior to your departure. If you're driving, you'll want to consider whether you need to rent a car or whether you will be taking your own vehicle but whatever you choose, you'll need to budget money for gas expenses.

When it comes to a vacation, one of the most important factors that determine whether or not you have a good time is where you stay. You'll likely be spending a lot of time at this location so you'll want to make sure it's comfortable and has all the accommodations you'll require. You may wonder whether a hotel or a hostel is the best option for you. A hostel can be a great inexpensive option if privacy is not a big issue for you. In a hostel you will most likely be sharing a room and a bathroom. However, if you prefer privacy, more complete accommodations, and don't mind spending the extra money, a hotel is more likely to suit you. Not every hotel is the same, however. Check for reviews of hotels in the area you will be staying and find the one that you think will suit your needs best.

Another important aspect to your great vacation is food. If you're going to be in an unfamiliar area, you may want to look at restaurant reviews or get advice from locals in the area who can point you to the best local easting establishments. This may not seem like a big deal but after a long day of sightseeing, the last think you'll want to do is have to search for a good place to eat.

Next, plan a few points of interest. Even if you're the kind of person that doesn't like to plan extensively and likes to leave things open for being spontaneous, you'll still want to plan a few points of interest to go and see or do. You don't have to plan them down to the very last detail, but you'll find that if you pick a few ideas and have them ready, you'll have a more enjoyable time, especially if something you planned on gets postponed or cancelled.

A great dream vacation isn't just a matter of location. A lot of it relies on you. If you take the time to plan out your vacation, you'll find that you can focus on enjoying your trip instead of stressing about the little details.