Ready for a fresh start? 

Planning a vacation should be at the top of your list. After all, studies have shown that even THINKING about something fun can be almost as great as actually doing it (read more: Here's why planning a trip can help your mental health)! 

So let's get started. Planning a Topsail Island vacation is easy, and this blog will break it down for you in 5 simple steps. 

5 steps to plan your next beach vacation:

Here's how to do it: 

1. Choosing a vacation rental - The most important step. 

Our best rentals book up QUICK! So try to choose your Ward Realty vacation rental home as early as possible. Especially if you want a pet-friendly home or need certain features (elevator, outdoor shower, etc), the earlier you start looking, the better. Read these blogs for more details and helpful information. ⤵

2. Planning activities - The fun part!

There is so much to do on Topsail Island. Start thinking about what your family likes to do, consider your budget, and start planning. You can rent bikes or kayaks, visit a museum, or just go out for ice cream. A simple night in at the vacation rental is also a great way to spend your time. 

3. Now, for food. Cook or go out and enjoy!   

Food is pretty much the best part of vacation. Really. Treat yourself to a few meals out in town. And don't forget to take full advantage of having your own refrigerator, microwave and stove in your vacation rental. You can save TONS of money and time, and honestly, your kids probably prefer your peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to the restaurant's, anyway. 

In this blog we will tell you EXACTLY How to Meal Plan For a Vacation Rental Adventure. 

4. Start thinking about your packing list.   

You might need to order some stuff for your trip, so it's a good idea to get a head start on your packing list. That way, you have plenty of time to get online and order those mesh shelling bags, a new beach bag, swim shirts for the kids and a fabulous hat for yourself. 

Packing can be overwhelming. We did a lot of the thinking for you in this blog, Bring, Buy, or Borrow? How to Pack for Your Next Beach Vacation. Because a beach vacation in a vacation rental is different from other sorts of trips, this blog will really help you narrow down what you need (and don't need) to bring. 

5. Consider Travel Insurance

When you click the final "Book It" and rent your Ward Realty beach vacation home, you will be automatically opted in to receive Travel Insurance. If you DON'T want it, you have to actually opt-out. We do it this way because we think Travel Insurance is a really important addition to your reservation. It will cover you in the case of a hurricane, illness or injury. And these days, it will put your mind at ease to know you have this provision in place. Learn more about Travel Insurance here, or contact us for more information. 

Planning a beach vacation is easy, right? We hope this blog has helped you frame some of your questions and thoughts into a simple checklist that will make you excited about your next trip to Topsail Island. 

If you ever need any help along the way, please don't hesitate to contact Ward Realty at 910-328-3221 or email us at rentals@wardrealty.com.