Explore 12 Different Types of Vacations to Plan Your Next Trip
What do you picture when you think of vacations? Maybe it’s cruising the open seas, lounging on sunny beaches, or wandering through Disney parks. We all have our favorite types of trips, whether full of adventure or relaxation.
Vacations come in various forms, from beachside relaxation to cruise excitement and theme park fun. In the U.S., where our vacation days are limited, picking the right vacation can make our time off even more rewarding.
Exploring different trip types can align your vacation with your interests or even encourage you to step outside your comfort zone for a transformative experience. Travel relaxes and offers chances to dive into new cultures, a crucial aspect of planning your getaway.
At Tasty Itinerary, we’re known for loving cruises, beach getaways, foodie trips, city explorations, and European adventures, but we’re always eager to discover new ways to travel.
What’s your ideal vacation? What does your perfect trip entail? Sound off in the comments!
We hope this overview inspires you to explore beyond the familiar and find exciting new options for your next journey. After all, the journey is as important as the destination.
What are the Different Types of Vacations?
Beach Getaways
Beach vacations rank among the most sought-after escapes, perfect for those who love sun, sea, and sand. The soothing presence of the ocean, with waves rhythmically crashing on the shore, salty air, and warm sand, promotes tranquility and relaxation.
Beach getaways offer a mix of leisure and adventure. You can enjoy lounging with a book, swimming, engaging in water sports, or exploring underwater through scuba diving. These vacations are versatile and fitting for solo travelers, couples, families, or groups seeking an ideal retreat.
Popular destinations for beach vacations include Hawaii, the Caribbean, and Mexico. Many resorts in these locations provide all-inclusive packages, simplifying vacation planning and potentially saving money.
One of our favorite beach vacations was at the Hilton La Romana in the Dominican Republic. We immersed ourselves in the beautiful beachfront, spending most days simply soaking in the serene environment.
Read more: Cruise vs. All-Inclusive Resorts
City Breaks
City breaks are ideal for quickly escaping to explore a city you’ve always been curious about. Whether by car, train, or a short flight, these trips don’t require much vacation time and can be planned around long weekends or holidays, maximizing your paid time off.
Big cities offer a rich tapestry of local culture. You can discover unique architecture, museums, and historical landmarks, diving deep into what makes each city special. Dining out is a highlight—whether deep-dish pizza in Chicago, bagels in New York, or tapas in Barcelona, the local flavors are a must.
One of the advantages of city breaks is the convenience. Most large cities boast efficient public transport systems, simplifying travel and making covering all the major sights easy.
Popular destinations for city breaks include New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Boston. Paris, London, and Barcelona are top choices for international travel.
Cruise Vacations
Cruise vacations offer a hassle-free way to visit multiple destinations without the constant packing and unpacking. At Tasty Itinerary, we count cruising among our favorite types of trips for several compelling reasons:
- Scenic Views: Imagine waking up each morning to a stunning sunrise or a new port visible from your balcony. The connection to the ocean and the ever-changing views create an unparalleled experience.
- Diverse Itineraries: Cruises allow you to explore a variety of places conveniently. Selecting an itinerary with interesting destinations means every stop brings a new adventure without the usual travel fatigue.
- Inclusive Dining: Your cruise fare typically includes a variety of dining options. For something special, additional specialty restaurants offer exquisite dishes at an extra cost.
- Entertainment and Activities: Ships are brimming with activities and entertainment options catering to all ages, from children to retirees. You choose how to spend your day—relax or engage in the fun.
- Convenience: Everything you need is onboard. Accommodations, transport, food, and entertainment are all included, simplifying your vacation planning.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Cruising can be exceptionally cost-effective, offering a luxurious experience even on a budget.
Cruising has its pros and cons, but it’s an experience we believe everyone should try at least once. The benefits often outweigh the drawbacks, making it a versatile and enjoyable vacation choice.
Read more: How to Plan a Cruise Trip
Road Trip
Sometimes, the best way to break away from our daily routines is with a road trip. Offering freedom and adventure, road trips let you hit the open road, whether you follow a planned route or choose your adventure spontaneously. They’re perfect for exploring new, off-the-beaten-path places.
One of the top benefits of road trips is the stunning scenery along the way. You might drive past majestic mountains, lush forests, or along scenic coastal roads. This journey through diverse landscapes offers a unique appeal.
Another significant advantage is flexibility. You can alter your itinerary, take unexpected detours, and visit spots that weren’t on your initial plan, making road trips ideal for spontaneous travelers who don’t want to stick to a rigid schedule.
Traveling by road is also an excellent way to make lasting memories with family, friends, or a significant other. Sharing driving duties, music choices, and experiences enhances the bond between travelers as you discover new places together.
Whether you’re planning a short trip close to home or embarking on one of the world’s famous routes—like Route 66 in the US, the Great Ocean Road in Australia, or Germany’s Romantic Road—road trips offer endless possibilities and adventures.
No matter where your journey takes you, the road trip is a timeless way to explore and enjoy the world around you.
Hiking Trips
Hiking trips offer a unique way to connect deeply with nature and experience the world’s natural beauty firsthand. Although we’re not avid hikers, we recognize the incredible benefits these trips provide. Hiking offers a robust workout and a chance to breathe fresh air, exercise, and escape the stresses of daily life while immersing yourself in the natural world.
These trips allow you to access areas unreachable by car, uncover hidden waterfalls, encounter stunning vistas, and observe unique wildlife. They also present opportunities to connect with fellow hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, exchanging stories and tips.
Hiking excursions vary from leisurely day hikes to challenging multi-day treks across rugged landscapes. Popular destinations include national parks like Yosemite and Zion and trails like the Pacific Crest Trail.
Preparing for a hike involves selecting the right gear, choosing suitable trails, and having sufficient food and water. Proper research and planning can make a hiking trip an unforgettable adventure.
For inspiration, check out ChrisMeGoodbye on social media. She is an enthusiastic hiker who shares captivating hiking adventures, tips, and guides that can help you start your own journey.
Foodie Trips
Have you ever planned a vacation purely for the culinary delights? At Tasty Itinerary, foodie trips are among our favorite kinds of getaways. Last year, we ventured to Bologna, Italy, specifically to savor authentic bolognese pasta right from its source.
No matter where you travel, a rich food culture is always waiting to be explored and enjoyed. Each destination offers unique culinary traditions and flavors that beg to be discovered.
Travel isn’t just about sightseeing for a food lover—it’s a culinary adventure. It’s an opportunity to try new flavors, indulge in local specialties, and dive into the history and culture behind each dish.
Foodie trips vary widely, from guided food tours and cooking classes to food festivals and farm-to-table experiences. These activities delight the palate and offer insights into local ingredients and cooking methods.
Every foodie trip promises plentiful opportunities to explore and indulge in the best a region has to offer.
Camping
Camping is a popular trip type that allows you to connect with nature, suitable for both seasoned campers and newcomers. Today, camping experiences range from basic tent setups to luxurious glamping, where outdoor adventure meets home comforts.
This type of vacation is perfect for those looking to unplug and unwind. It offers activities like hiking, fishing, and kayaking, enabling full engagement with the environment.
However, camping requires careful preparation. Packaging the right gear and clothing is as important as choosing an appropriate campsite (which may require a permit) and being mindful of local wildlife and potential hazards.
Popular destinations for camping trips include Yellowstone and Yosemite, Joshua Tree National Parks in the U.S., Banff National Park in Canada, and Kruger National Park in South Africa.
Educational
Educational trips blend travel with learning and personal growth, allowing you to develop new skills or enhance existing ones while exploring distant destinations. These trips offer a variety of educational experiences, from language classes and cooking courses to photography workshops.
Joining an educational trip means you’ll explore alongside like-minded individuals who share your interests. These journeys can also be cost-effective, as they often include group rates covering some activities and meals.
Consider exploring offerings from local colleges or private workshops led by expert guides, teachers, and influencers. Many professionals, like some of my favorite photographers, host engaging small-group workshops abroad annually, providing unique learning and travel experiences.
Wellness and Spa Retreats
Wellness and spa retreats are perfect for those looking to relax and rejuvenate. These retreats offer a range of indulgences, from massages and facials to yoga and meditation, helping you unwind and restore balance.
The appeal of these retreats often lies in their comprehensive spa services. Besides standard treatments, many retreats provide classes in yoga and meditation, typically set in tranquil environments to enhance your mental and emotional well-being.
For a more immersive experience, consider visiting a full-on spa resort. Many offer all-inclusive packages that cover meals, spa treatments, and wellness activities, allowing you to engage in the relaxing atmosphere fully.
Alternatively, you can find similar spa experiences on a cruise. Most mainstream cruise lines feature luxury spas with an array of treatments. For example, booking an Aqua Class Cabin on a Celebrity Cruise and booking a week of spa treatments—an annual tradition for one of our friends.
Adventure Trips
Travel inherently brings adventure, but adventure trips take it to the next level with thrilling activities and physical challenges. These vacations are exciting, often featuring outdoor explorations and adrenaline-pumping experiences.
Adventure trips vary widely, allowing you to engage in activities like trekking in the mountains, white-water rafting, skydiving, or ziplining through rainforests. These activities can be planned as part of a broader travel itinerary or focused on specific destinations renowned for their adventurous offerings.
- White-Water Rafting: Tackle the rapids of the Colorado River for an exhilarating experience.
- Ziplining: Experience the thrill of the ZipRider, the world’s longest zipline, in Icy Straight Point, Alaska.
- Trekking: Embark on a challenging trek through the majestic Himalayan Mountains in Nepal.
- Bungee Jumping: Take a leap from the Verzasca Dam in Switzerland, one of the highest bungee jumps in the world.
- Skydiving: Dive into an ultimate adrenaline rush with a skydiving adventure in Dubai.
Each of these experiences offers a unique way to embrace the spirit of adventure and test your limits.
Disney Vacations
Disney Vacations have long been the quintessential family getaway, often called the “Happiest Place on Earth.” From childhood memories to modern-day visits, Disney theme parks worldwide continue to draw vacationers eager to experience Disney’s magical charm.
One of the main attractions of a Disney vacation is the immersive world of fantasy and imagination. Stepping through the gates of any Disney park, visitors of all ages are swept into a realm of wonder and excitement.
Beyond the thrilling rides, Disney offers a variety of accommodations, dining options, and entertainment experiences. Themed hotels and restaurants, Broadway-style shows, and vibrant parades ensure there’s always something new to explore. Disney’s culinary offerings are so diverse you can practically eat your way through the parks.
For those overwhelmed by planning international trips, Disney provides a welcoming alternative. It’s a safe, all-encompassing environment designed to deliver unforgettable experiences for children and adults. Indeed, many adults find Disney vacations as delightful now as they did in their youth—part of what makes the Disney magic enduring.
Disney destinations vary widely:
- Disneyland California offers a classic experience steeped in history.
- Disney World in Florida is renowned for its vast and varied attractions.
- Disneyland Paris brings a touch of Disney magic to the heart of Europe.
- Tokyo Disney Resort features two parks: Disneyland and DisneySea, each offering unique attractions.
- Hong Kong Disneyland and Shanghai Disney Resort blend Disney enchantment with Chinese cultural elements.
Tip: Book with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner
Plan your Disney experience at no extra cost! An authorized Disney Vacation Planner can guide you, handle your reservations, and organize a trip tailored to your budget and preferences. Make your next Disney vacation stress-free and magical by leveraging their expertise.
A Staycation
Sometimes, the most accessible and necessary vacation is a staycation. If you don’t plan a trip, consider a staycation to maximize your PTO with well-deserved rest.
Staycations are ideal if you’re on a tight budget, short on time, or want to avoid the stress of extensive travel planning. Without needing flights or long-distance transportation, you can unwind at home or check into a nearby hotel for a change of scenery.
Explore local museums, parks, and attractions, sample new restaurants, or enjoy the comforts of your familiar surroundings. A staycation can be as fulfilling as a big trip, offering a chance to discover or reconnect with your home area.
For instance, after moving to Los Angeles, we used our first vacation week not for travel but to delve deeper into our new city, taking day trips and exploring local gems that quickly made us feel more at home.
What kinds of vacations do most people take?
Most people take traditional vacations, such as beach vacations, city breaks, Disney vacations, and trips to popular tourist destinations.
What is your idea of a perfect vacation?
Everyone’s idea of a perfect vacation varies. However, we’d like to think that the perfect vacation allows you to relax and enjoy yourself with the right company and environment.
What is a short vacation vs a long vacation?
A short vacation typically lasts a few days to a week, while a long vacation is two weeks or more. Short vacations are quick getaways, while long vacations involve more extensive travel and exploration. Long vacations offer a deeper immersion in a destination, while short vacations provide a refreshing break from daily life without requiring as much time or planning.
What is a typical vacation?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to a typical vacation, as it can vary greatly depending on personal preferences. Ultimately, a typical vacation is about taking a break from the routine of daily life and experiencing something new and exciting.
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Kathy Ava
Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.