# Trip Planner > Complete trip itinerary creation guide covering destination research, day-by-day planning, transportation logistics, accommodation selection, booking timing optimization, budget allocation, must-see vs hidden gems balance, and itinerary templates for weekend, week, and two-week trips. Use when the user asks about trip planner, or needs help with complete trip itinerary creation guide covering destination research, day-by-day planning, transportation logistics, accommodation selection, booking timing optimization, budget allocation, must-see vs hidden gems balance, and itinerary templates for weekend, week, and two-week trips. Do NOT use when the request requires professional specialized advice or falls outside the scope of trip planner. - Skill: `ferroxlabs/trip-planner` (Agent Skill, multi-file: 2 files) - Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add ferroxlabs/trip-planner` - Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/ferroxlabs/trip-planner/raw - Safety review: pending - Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex - Category: Research & Search - License: Apache-2.0 - Author: FerroxLabs (https://skillmd.com/u/ferroxlabs) - Updated: 2026-09-17 - Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/ferroxlabs/trip-planner --- # Trip Planner ## When to Use **Use this skill when:** - User asks about trip planner - User needs guidance on trip planner topics - User wants a structured approach to trip planner **Do NOT use when:** - Request requires professional consultation beyond educational guidance - User needs emergency assistance ## Questions to Ask the User First 1. **Where are you going?** (specific destination, or looking for suggestions) 2. **When are you traveling?** (dates or flexible timeframe) 3. **How long is the trip?** (weekend, week, two weeks, longer) 4. **What is your budget?** (total per person, or spending level: budget/mid-range/luxury) 5. **Who is traveling?** (solo, couple, family with kids, group of friends, multi-generational) 6. **What are your interests?** (culture/history, food, nature/outdoors, adventure sports, relaxation, nightlife, shopping, photography) 7. **What is your travel style?** (packed itinerary, relaxed pace, mix of both) 8. **Have you been to this destination before?** 9. **Any physical limitations or accessibility needs?** 10. **What are your must-dos?** (specific attractions, restaurants, experiences) --- ## Step 1: Destination Research Framework ### The Research Sprint (1-2 Hours) ``` DESTINATION RESEARCH CHECKLIST: BASICS: [ ] Best time to visit (weather, crowds, events) [ ] Visa requirements for your nationality [ ] Currency and current exchange rate [ ] Language(s) spoken and English proficiency [ ] Time zone difference from home [ ] Safety situation and travel advisories [ ] COVID or health entry requirements (if any) GETTING THERE: [ ] Flight options (direct vs connecting) [ ] Average flight cost from your origin [ ] Airport(s) and distance to city center [ ] Airport transfer options (train, bus, taxi, ride-share) GETTING AROUND: [ ] Public transportation quality and coverage [ ] Ride-share availability (Uber, Lyft, local alternatives) [ ] Car rental necessity and driving conditions [ ] Walkability of main areas [ ] Intercity transportation (trains, buses, domestic flights) NEIGHBORHOODS: [ ] Best areas to stay (by interest: nightlife, culture, family-friendly) [ ] Areas to avoid [ ] Proximity of key attractions to each other [ ] Local transportation between neighborhoods COSTS: [ ] Average hotel/Airbnb cost per night [ ] Average meal cost (budget, mid-range, fine dining) [ ] Attraction entry fees [ ] Transportation costs [ ] Tipping customs ``` ### Seasonal Planning ``` SEASONAL ASSESSMENT: Destination: {{DESTINATION}} Travel dates: {{DATES}} WEATHER: - Average high/low temperature: {{TEMP}} - Rainfall: {{AMOUNT}} - Daylight hours: {{HOURS}} - Special weather considerations: {{NOTES}} CROWD LEVELS: - Peak season: {{MONTHS}} -- Expect: highest prices, biggest crowds - Shoulder season: {{MONTHS}} -- Expect: moderate prices, fewer crowds - Low season: {{MONTHS}} -- Expect: lowest prices, some closures YOUR TRAVEL PERIOD IS: PEAK / SHOULDER / LOW IMPACT ON PLANNING: - Book accommodations {{X}} weeks/months in advance - Book popular restaurants {{X}} weeks in advance - Buy attraction tickets: {{IN_ADVANCE / AT_DOOR}} - Expected daily budget adjustment: +/- {{%}} ``` --- ## Step 2: Budget Allocation ### Trip Budget Worksheet ``` TRIP BUDGET PLANNER: TRIP: {{DESTINATION}} | {{DATES}} | {{NUMBER_OF_TRAVELERS}} CATEGORY | BUDGET/PERSON | TOTAL | NOTES ------------------|---------------|----------|------ Flights | ${{}} | ${{}} | {{}} Accommodation | ${{/night}} | ${{}} | {{NIGHTS}} nights Local Transport | ${{/day}} | ${{}} | {{TYPE}} Food & Drink | ${{/day}} | ${{}} | {{MEAL_PLAN}} Activities | ${{}} | ${{}} | {{KEY_ACTIVITIES}} Shopping/Souvenirs| ${{}} | ${{}} | {{}} Travel Insurance | ${{}} | ${{}} | {{}} Miscellaneous | ${{}} | ${{}} | 10-15% buffer ------------------|---------------|----------|------ TOTAL | ${{}} | ${{}} | BUDGET ALLOCATION GUIDELINES: BUDGET TRAVELER ($50-100/day): - Accommodation: 30% (hostels, guesthouses, Airbnb) - Food: 25% (street food, markets, cooking) - Transport: 15% (public transit, walking) - Activities: 20% (free attractions, hiking, museums) - Buffer: 10% MID-RANGE TRAVELER ($100-250/day): - Accommodation: 35% (mid-range hotels, nice Airbnbs) - Food: 25% (mix of local restaurants and nice dining) - Transport: 15% (taxi/ride-share, occasional rental) - Activities: 15% (paid tours, tickets) - Buffer: 10% LUXURY TRAVELER ($250+/day): - Accommodation: 40% (luxury hotels, premium stays) - Food: 20% (fine dining, food experiences) - Transport: 10% (private transfers, business class) - Activities: 20% (premium experiences, private tours) - Buffer: 10% ``` --- ## Step 3: Booking Timing Optimization ### When to Book What ``` BOOKING TIMELINE: 6+ MONTHS BEFORE: [ ] Flights (international) -- best prices 2-6 months out [ ] Accommodation for peak season travel [ ] Marquee events (festivals, concerts, sporting events) [ ] Specialty tours with limited availability 3-6 MONTHS BEFORE: [ ] Flights (domestic) [ ] Popular accommodation [ ] Restaurant reservations (fine dining, Michelin-starred) [ ] Multi-day tours or cruises [ ] Car rental for peak season 1-3 MONTHS BEFORE: [ ] Attraction tickets with time slots (museums, landmarks) [ ] Day tours and guided experiences [ ] Airport transfers or private drivers [ ] Travel insurance [ ] Local SIM card or eSIM purchase 2-4 WEEKS BEFORE: [ ] Reconfirm all bookings [ ] Download offline maps [ ] Notify bank of travel dates [ ] Check visa status and passport validity [ ] Review cancellation policies 1 WEEK BEFORE: [ ] Check weather forecast and adjust packing [ ] Confirm all reservations [ ] Print or download all confirmation emails [ ] Share itinerary with emergency contact [ ] Charge all electronics and battery packs ``` --- ## Step 4: Accommodation Selection ### Accommodation Comparison ``` ACCOMMODATION DECISION MATRIX: OPTION | BEST FOR | BUDGET | PROS | CONS -------------|-------------------|-------------|---------------------|------- Hotel | Convenience, | $$-$$$$ | Services, cleaning, | Less local | short stays | | location, reliability| experience Airbnb/VRBO | Longer stays, | $-$$$ | Kitchen, space, | No daily | families, groups | | local neighborhood | cleaning, variable Hostel | Solo/budget | $ | Social, cheap, | Shared spaces, | travelers | | central locations | noise Boutique | Special occasions,| $$$-$$$$ | Unique, personal | More expensive, Hotel | culture seekers | | service, design | fewer amenities Resort | Relaxation, | $$$-$$$$ | All-inclusive option| Isolated from | beach/nature | | pools, activities | local culture Guesthouse | Local experience, | $-$$ | Authentic, hosts | Basic amenities, | cultural immersion| | know the area | may be remote SELECTION CRITERIA: [ ] Location (proximity to planned activities) [ ] Price per night (within budget) [ ] Reviews (4.0+ on major platforms) [ ] Cancellation policy (flexible preferred) [ ] Amenities needed (WiFi, kitchen, laundry, parking, pool) [ ] Safety and security features [ ] Accessibility (if needed) [ ] Check-in/check-out flexibility ``` --- ## Step 5: Day-by-Day Planning ### Daily Itinerary Framework ``` DAILY PLANNING PRINCIPLES: 1. THE 3-2-1 RULE: - 3 planned activities per full day (no more) - 2 meals planned (leave 1 flexible) - 1 flex block for spontaneity or rest 2. GEOGRAPHIC CLUSTERING: - Group activities by neighborhood/area - Minimize back-and-forth travel - Morning: one area, Afternoon: adjacent area 3. ENERGY MANAGEMENT: - High-energy activities in the morning - Indoor/rest activities during midday heat (warm climates) - Social/dining activities in the evening - Build in rest days for trips longer than 5 days 4. FIRST AND LAST DAY RULES: - Arrival day: Light plans only (check in, explore nearby, dinner) - Departure day: Pack night before, morning activity only if time allows ``` ### Daily Itinerary Template ``` DAY {{NUMBER}}: {{THEME/NEIGHBORHOOD}} Date: {{DATE}} ({{DAY_OF_WEEK}}) MORNING: {{TIME}}: {{ACTIVITY_1}} Duration: {{TIME}} Cost: ${{AMOUNT}} Booking needed: YES/NO -- Status: {{BOOKED/TODO}} Notes: {{TIPS, ADDRESS, TRANSIT_INSTRUCTIONS}} {{TIME}}: {{ACTIVITY_2}} Duration: {{TIME}} Cost: ${{AMOUNT}} LUNCH: {{TIME}}: {{RESTAURANT_OR_AREA}} Cuisine: {{TYPE}} Budget: ${{AMOUNT}} Reservation: NEEDED / WALK-IN Alternative: {{BACKUP_OPTION}} AFTERNOON: {{TIME}}: {{ACTIVITY_3}} Duration: {{TIME}} Cost: ${{AMOUNT}} {{TIME}}: FLEX TIME Options: {{OPTION_A}} / {{OPTION_B}} / Rest at hotel DINNER: {{TIME}}: {{RESTAURANT}} Reservation: {{STATUS}} Budget: ${{AMOUNT}} EVENING (optional): {{ACTIVITY: nightlife, show, sunset spot, night market}} TRANSPORT FOR THE DAY: Morning: {{METHOD}} Between activities: {{METHOD}} Evening: {{METHOD}} DAY BUDGET: ${{TOTAL}} ``` --- ## Step 6: Must-See vs. Hidden Gems ### Balancing Tourist Highlights and Local Experiences ``` ATTRACTION CATEGORIZATION: MUST-SEE (Tourist Highlights): Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon (fewer crowds) Book in advance: YES -- tickets with time slots Time allocation: 60-90 minutes each 1. {{ATTRACTION_1}} -- Priority: HIGH 2. {{ATTRACTION_2}} -- Priority: HIGH 3. {{ATTRACTION_3}} -- Priority: MEDIUM HIDDEN GEMS (Local Favorites): How to find them: Ask locals, check Atlas Obscura, local blogs Typically: No booking needed, flexible timing 1. {{GEM_1}} -- Source: {{HOW_YOU_FOUND_IT}} 2. {{GEM_2}} -- Source: {{HOW_YOU_FOUND_IT}} 3. {{GEM_3}} -- Source: {{HOW_YOU_FOUND_IT}} NEIGHBORHOOD EXPLORATION: Wander time: Build in 2-3 hour blocks for unplanned exploration 1. {{NEIGHBORHOOD_1}} -- Known for: {{VIBE}} 2. {{NEIGHBORHOOD_2}} -- Known for: {{VIBE}} FOOD EXPERIENCES: - Famous restaurant: {{NAME}} (book ahead) - Local market: {{NAME}} (go hungry, try everything) - Street food area: {{LOCATION}} - Cooking class: {{OPTION}} (half-day activity) BALANCE RULE: For every 2 "must-see" tourist attractions, plan 1 hidden gem or local experience. This keeps the trip from feeling like a checklist. ``` --- ## Step 7: Itinerary Templates ### Weekend Getaway (2-3 Days) ``` WEEKEND ITINERARY TEMPLATE: Trip: {{DESTINATION}} | {{DATES}} | {{TRAVELERS}} DAY 1 (FRIDAY / ARRIVAL): - Arrive and check in - Explore hotel neighborhood on foot - Welcome dinner at {{RESTAURANT}} - After dinner: {{LIGHT_EVENING_ACTIVITY}} DAY 2 (SATURDAY / MAIN DAY): - Morning: {{TOP_ATTRACTION_1}} (go early to beat crowds) - Mid-morning: {{ACTIVITY_2}} - Lunch: {{RESTAURANT/AREA}} - Afternoon: {{ACTIVITY_3 or NEIGHBORHOOD_EXPLORATION}} - Late afternoon: Rest / refresh - Evening: {{SPECIAL_DINNER}} + {{EVENING_ACTIVITY}} DAY 3 (SUNDAY / DEPARTURE): - Morning: {{MARKET/BRUNCH/FINAL_ACTIVITY}} - Late morning: Pack and check out - Optional: {{ONE_FINAL_STOP}} if time allows - Head to airport/station PACKING: Carry-on only for weekend trips ``` ### One Week (7 Days) ``` ONE-WEEK ITINERARY TEMPLATE: DAY 1: ARRIVAL + ORIENTATION - Arrive, check in, exchange money, get transit pass - Walk around the neighborhood - Grocery shopping (if apartment/Airbnb) - Early dinner (recover from travel) DAY 2: TOP HIGHLIGHTS - Morning: #1 must-see attraction (arrive when it opens) - Lunch: Near the attraction area - Afternoon: #2 must-see attraction - Evening: Dinner at a recommended restaurant DAY 3: CULTURE AND HISTORY - Morning: Museum or cultural site - Lunch: Local market or food hall - Afternoon: Walking tour (guided or self-guided) - Evening: Neighborhood exploration and dinner DAY 4: ADVENTURE / DAY TRIP - Full-day trip to {{NEARBY_DESTINATION}} - OR: Outdoor activity (hiking, beach, nature park) - Return for dinner in town DAY 5: REST + LOCAL LIFE - Sleep in (you need this by Day 5) - Late brunch at a local cafe - Afternoon: Shopping, cafe-hopping, or a cooking class - Evening: Special dinner experience DAY 6: HIDDEN GEMS - Morning: Off-the-beaten-path neighborhood - Lunch: Street food or local favorite - Afternoon: Activity based on personal interest - Evening: Sunset spot + farewell dinner DAY 7: DEPARTURE - Morning: Last walk, pick up souvenirs - Check out and head to airport ``` ### Two Weeks (14 Days) ``` TWO-WEEK ITINERARY FRAMEWORK: SEGMENT 1 (Days 1-4): PRIMARY CITY/BASE - Day 1: Arrival and orientation - Day 2-3: Major attractions and cultural sites - Day 4: Neighborhood exploration and local life SEGMENT 2 (Days 5-7): SECONDARY DESTINATION - Day 5: Travel to second destination - Day 6: Explore second destination highlights - Day 7: Day trip or deeper exploration REST DAY (Day 8): MID-TRIP RECOVERY - No major plans - Laundry, rest, journal, plan remaining days - Light local exploration SEGMENT 3 (Days 9-11): THIRD DESTINATION OR NATURE - Day 9: Travel to third area - Day 10-11: Nature, adventure, or cultural immersion SEGMENT 4 (Days 12-14): RETURN AND WRAP-UP - Day 12: Return to primary city or final destination - Day 13: Anything missed, shopping, revisit favorites - Day 14: Departure KEY PRINCIPLES FOR LONG TRIPS: - Move accommodations no more than 3-4 times - Plan rest days every 4-5 days - Leave 20% of time unplanned - Do laundry on rest days - Reconfirm bookings for the second week ``` --- ## Step 8: Transportation Logistics ### Getting Around Decision Matrix ``` TRANSPORTATION PLANNING: BETWEEN CITIES: Option | Best For | Book When | Tips -----------------|------------------|----------------|------ Flight | 3+ hour drive | 1-3 months out | Budget airlines have hidden fees Train | 1-4 hour routes | 1-4 weeks out | Often city center to city center Bus | Budget, short | 1 week out | Check comfort level Rental car | Rural, flexible | 1 month out | Check insurance, tolls, parking Private transfer | Groups, comfort | 1 week out | Split cost among group WITHIN CITIES: [ ] Walking (always best for short distances and exploration) [ ] Public transit (metro, bus, tram) [ ] Ride-share (Uber, Lyft, local apps) [ ] Bicycle/scooter rental [ ] Taxi (agree on price or use meter) [ ] Hop-on hop-off bus (for orientation on Day 1) ``` --- ## Trip Planning Master Checklist ``` COMPLETE TRIP CHECKLIST: PRE-TRIP: [ ] Passport valid (6+ months beyond travel dates) [ ] Visa obtained (if required) [ ] Travel insurance purchased [ ] Flights booked [ ] Accommodation booked [ ] Major attraction tickets purchased [ ] Restaurant reservations made [ ] Bank notified of travel dates [ ] International phone plan or eSIM [ ] Copies of documents (digital + physical) [ ] Itinerary shared with emergency contact [ ] Home preparations (mail hold, pet care, plants) PACKED: [ ] See Packing Assistant skill for detailed list [ ] All chargers and adapters [ ] Medications [ ] Printed/downloaded confirmations ON TRIP: [ ] Reconfirm bookings day before [ ] Check weather for next day [ ] Keep valuables secure [ ] Take photos of tickets and important items [ ] Enjoy and be present ``` --- *This skill provides trip planning guidance. Actual conditions, prices, and availability change frequently. Always verify current information before booking and travel.* ## Output Format ``` TRIP PLANNER OUTPUT =================== Section 1: Assessment / Analysis - Key findings - Recommendations Section 2: Action Plan - Step-by-step guidance - Timeline if applicable Section 3: Resources - Relevant references - Next steps ``` ## Example **Input:** "Help me get started with trip planner" **Output:** A structured trip planner plan tailored to the user's specific situation, following the process outlined above. ## Edge Cases - **Incomplete information:** Ask clarifying questions before proceeding. Do not assume details the user has not provided. - **Out of scope requests:** Redirect to appropriate professional resources when the request exceeds educational guidance. - **Conflicting requirements:** Present trade-offs clearly and let the user decide priorities.