Vacations are essential to helping maintain our sanity.

When we take a break from our busy lives, it can benefit our overall well-being, mental and physical health, and can also boost productivity and creativity.

I have been at my current job for almost 18 years, and have learned the importance of finding that balance between work and leisure to prevent feeling burnt out.

When I celebrated my 50th birthday back in March, my wife and I took a two-week “stay-cation” with a couple of day trips mixed in.

Now several months later, we both are planning to take a week away from our jobs to celebrate our first wedding anniversary.

But unlike our last vacation, we plan on driving three hours north of San Francisco, California to the Mendocino Coast near the Pacific Ocean.

I booked our hotel plus other activities months in advance; and I’m looking forward to a relaxing getaway with my wife.

But as the date of our departure approaches, I still want to stay on top of a few things to help make this the best trip possible.

And I found that these four tips can help maximize the most out of a vacation.

Practice Pre-Destination Familiarity

I know I am not the only one, but my senses are slightly heightened when driving in a city or area I’m not familiar with. The demeanor is different when driving in a street you know well compared to the ones you don’t.

But no matter how you arrive at your destination, it can be overwhelming exploring a new city if you’re not feeling spontaneous.

From a personal preference, I like to know what the area I’m traveling to has to offer.

Using Google Maps is an excellent way to become familiar with wherever you go. Besides (obviously) providing directions, the app also displays various restaurants, hotels, and attractions on their map grid.

Knowing the vicinity makes it easier to plan out your days so you can zero in on the activities you want to do, and that’s why Google Maps is a great resource to create your itinerary ahead of time.

Read Reviews, But Keep an Open Mind

Review sites such as Yelp and Trip Advisor are great ways for people to share their experiences from restaurants, hotels, or any other business.

The reviews can range from an establishment receiving praise for going above and beyond; to one getting critiqued on areas which may need improvement.

But it is important to note that everyone’s experience varies.

You could come across a few negative reviews towards a restaurant that averages 4.8 out of 5 starts on Yelp; or even see compliments and kudos to another that averages 2.3 out of 5 stars.

These reviews may not be 100% reliable, but reading them could give you an idea what to expect beforehand.

We all want to get the most out of our activities while vacationing, and it’s not a bad idea to read experiences from other perspectives.

Plan Accordingly

This goes without saying, but make sure there are no loose ends before your trip. Make sure all your reservations with flights, hotels, and any activity bookings are confirmed.

Taking care of this firsthand already puts you ahead of the game, but it never hurts to double-check businesses such as hotel accommodations to ensure there are no unpleasant surprises.

When packing, be sure not to leave behind any essentials. If you take any medication, be sure to get refills or have enough that will at least last you through the trip.

It is a good idea to monitor how the forecast will be at your destination so that you can dress comfortably according to the weather. Pack extra clothes so that you have options; and have a jacket/sweater and umbrella handy just in case.

Cleaning and organizing your home before your trip will make your return back more pleasant.

If you own pets that need to be cared for, you can either have a reliable neighbor check on them periodically or book a kennel.

Your reliable neighbor (if available) can also water your plants if you have any. Or just be sure to water your plants good before you go.

And finally, be sure you have a clean desk at work as far as workload is concerned. It will not only help ease you back into the work routine, but it avoids increasing the workload for your co-workers.

And let’s face it… no one like to do extra work.

Make Stops and Take it All In

If you’re taking a road trip and will be on the road for at least a few hours, it is key that you take breaks on your journey.

Stopping for gas, snacks, and drinks are a given on long road trips, but you will be amazed at what other things you can find while on the road.

As I stated earlier, Google Maps is a great resource to study the area you are traveling and find some possible hidden gems like top-rated restaurants and scenic views to name a couple things.

Whether you’re cruising on the coastal highway approaching a lighthouse or coming across a local farmers market; roadside attractions help enhance your vacation experience even before you reach your destination.

You can use Google Maps to add pins to any points of interest that may catch your eye on the way. The app also had real-time updates to help you avoid delays and find alternative routes.

From your start point to finish, Google Maps will help you visualize your entire journey.