Planning a trip happens in stages. Most of them are rather practical, like finding tickets or picking a route, but if you've ever planned a really big trip, like blow your mind epic trip, you know that there are some very emotional stages involved. And here they are.
1. The initial buzz
This is brought on when you first start talking about the trip. It's the possibility of going that sets your nerves tingling and lights up your eyes as you talk about all the things you could do on your tip. But nothing's real until...
2. A slight fear
My friend and I talked about going to Iceland for a few weeks. We were really excited looking at all of the different places we wanted ago, but the minute I received the notification that our plane tickets were booked I was hit with this slight fear bought on by the realization that we were actually going. We spent real money on this; it was happening!
3. Planning frenzy
Booking plane tickets or hotel—basically spending any money for your trip really—means you are now invested. It's happening and, hopefully, there is no going back. Which means you now have a certain amount of time until you leave to have everything planned. My friend and I are currently in this stage. Trying to find routes, hotels, activities... It's a crazy process.
4. The night before jitters
As your checking your bags or barely packing depending on your style, you're once again hit with those jitters and the second moment of, "Oh, this is actually happening." Until you get on the plane, your entire body is going to be buzzing with anticipation and worry.
5. Unadulterated bliss
You're done withe the planning, you're already wherever you're going, you are excited. Ready to see all the sights, get some new experiences under your belt. This is what all the planning is for. And it all come together the minute you step out of the arrival airport or the car. You are officially there.
I cannot wait until my trip to Iceland next month. And although I am barely on Stage 3, I can already imagine stepping out of the Reykjavik airport. The joy of seeing a completely new place, or doing things I've never done before. It's that feeling that makes me want to travel.