1. 🎯 Define Your Vision: The 'What' and 'Why'

Before you open a single booking website, you need to decide what kind of trip you want.

Destination: Where do you truly want to go? Is it a bustling metropolis, a quiet mountain retreat, or a tropical escape? Don't just pick the cheapest; pick the place that excites you most.
Duration: How long can you realistically be away? A quick long weekend, a week-long immersion, or a multi-month backpacking adventure?
Travel Companions: Are you solo, traveling with a partner, family, or a group of friends? The nature of your companions heavily influences your destination and pace.
The 'Why': Are you seeking relaxation, adventure, culture, food, or a bit of everything? Clarifying your main goal helps prioritize your spending and activities later.

2. 💰 Master Your Money: Setting the Budget

Budgeting is the bedrock of planning. Being honest about your finances now prevents costly surprises later.

Category	Typical % of Total Budget	Key Considerations
Flights/Transportation	25-35%	Be flexible with dates; consider budget airlines.
Accommodation	20-30%	Hostels, Airbnb, or luxury hotels? Location matters.
Food & Drink	15-20%	Balance street food/groceries with nice dining experiences.
Activities & Sightseeing	10-15%	Check for city passes or free museum days.
Miscellaneous (Insurance, etc.)	5-10%	Travel Insurance is non-negotiable! Include an emergency fund.