Weary of scrolling through envy-inducing travel Instagram feeds, fantasizing about taking an  epic trip around-the-world? Well, my fellow globe-trotters, it's time to make that dream a reality. Grab your passports and let's do a quick dive into some basic things to consider when planning the journey of a lifetime.

Budget breakdown

Ah, yes, the dreaded B-word – budget. Before you start picking out destinations and booking flights, it's essential to know your financial boundaries. Sitting down and rolling up your sleeves to take a serious look at what you can afford or want to spend on the trip is your first stop. Creating a budget can sharpen your money-management skills and make your dream trip a reality. Imagine transforming your daily coffee runs into a leisurely morning in a charming Parisian café or swapping those impulse online shopping sprees for a thrilling hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia. It's like a treasure hunt for every dollar saved. 

Whip out that wanderlust wishlist

This is the fun part. It's time to dream big. Grab a notebook, your smartphone or an old-fashioned chalkboard (yes, people still use those) and start jotting down all the places you've ever wanted to visit. No destination is off-limits. From the Eiffel Tower to the Great Barrier Reef or even the Great Wall of China, let your imagination run wild. Once you have your list completed, it's research time. Visit a AAA Travel Advisor either in-person or virtually, or reference your favorite travel blogs and forums for insights regarding weather, visa requirements and safety. 

Avoid documentation drama

When you have your go-to destination list in order, ensuring all necessary documents are in order is a task of paramount importance for a seamless global journey. Do not fear intrepid traveler, AAA offers a cornucopia of benefits to assist you making sure everything is in order. From free passport photos, a benefit sure to make you smile, to assisting with expedited passport and visa services, AAA is ready to serve. To get the full scoop on these benefits and how to access them, swing by AAA.com/Passport. 

Diving into the deep end: booking your trip

Booking flights for an around-the-world adventure can feel like a puzzle. Many choose the do-it-yourself method using booking platforms that specialize in multi-destination trips or round the world tickets (RWT). These tickets allow you to fly to multiple destinations and explore diverse cultures in one seamless journey for a single price. Or you could enlist the help of a AAA Travel Advisor. They've got the inside scoop on the best deals, discounts and hidden gems you wouldn't stumble upon in a million Google searches. Travel keep you out of travel snafus and guide you through the maze of visas, flights and accommodations. All you need to do is sit back, relax and daydream about all the incredible places you'll soon be exploring.  

Pack like a pro

Now, let’s tackle packing. Think versatile, not voluminous. Your trusty backpack or suitcase should be a TARDIS of essentials - clothes, toiletries and don’t forget a good book or your favorite. Reduce the risk of bulky luggage by selecting versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched. Consider the weather in each destination and pack accordingly, including layers for varying temperatures. Remember, you can always buy stuff on the road if you forget something crucial, like sunscreen while in the Sahara.

Travel insurance: safety first, wanderlust second

Embarking on an around-the-world adventure is like riding a rollercoaster of excitement, but just like that rollercoaster, it's wise to have a safety harness. Travel insurance is your trusty sidekick, there to save the day when unexpected curveballs come your way. Lost luggage, a sudden illness, flight cancellations or even a misadventure involving curious wildlife, travel insurance has your back. 

Pack a sense of adventure (and flexibility)

Lastly, pack the most crucial item: your sense of adventure! While planning is essential, so is the ability to roll with unexpected changes. Sometimes, the best experiences are the ones you didn't plan for. So, be open to serendipity, meet new people, try new foods and collect memories. Bon voyage!