How to Use Pinterest to Plan Your Next Vacation

They say a picture says a thousand words, and the popularity of Pinterest certainly confirms that. You might think of this visual social media platform for recipes, hair and makeup tutorials or DIY projects, but have you ever used it to plan a vacation? It’s a great way to find blog posts and content that will help shape a memorable experience. Plus, it’s scientifically proven that we get an emotional boost from just planning travel. Since Pinterest is so visual, it makes it even more fun to put a trip together.

Here’s why you might want to use Pinterest to plan your next vacation.

Travel Inspiration

Not sure where you want to go on your next trip? Why not scour Pinterest? Simply type in the type of vacation you’re seeking (“island vacation”; “budget ski trip”; “Prague”) and start pinning. Find the images that speak to you and pin them on a dedicated board. You’ll undoubtedly discover places you never knew existed! You can also create a Bucket List board for all those trips that aren’t in the cards right now, but may be some day. Antarctica, Machu Picchu or Thailand anyone?

Create a Visual Itinerary

Once you’ve decided where you’re going, create a trip-specific board. Next, start searching for things to do while there. Say you’re heading to the Mayan Riviera. Create a Mayan Riviera board, then start adding pins showcasing cool stuff to do. Swimming in cenotes, visiting Tulum, the best all-inclusive resorts (or charming boutique hotels!)—you’ll be able to find all sorts of pins that correspond to your upcoming trip.

Find Niche Travel Info

We used to rely on guide books, magazines and newspapers to inform our travels. I still think there’s a place for those resources, but the internet has made it easier than ever to find the exact hotels, restaurants and travel experiences you crave. Unlike print media, blogs and travel sites often address very niche needs and publish whenever instead of monthly or annually.

So whether you’re looking for suggestions on doing Disney Without Kids, Europe for Families, or Cruises for Couples, you’ll be able to find pins that link to helpful blog posts on the exact kind of trip you want to take. Find great restaurant, hotel and activity recommendations and pin them to your vacation board!

Figure Out What to Pack and More

Not only will you find inspiration on where to go, but how to make the best of your time there. Pinterest is filled with packing tips (often specific to your destination), tips on local customs and culture, plus suggestions on how to make your dollar stretch farther in specific locations.

Plan Group Vacations

Traveling with a crew? Collaborate on a group board and plan ideas for activities. Whether it’s a girls’ trip to New York City or a multi-generational trip to Florida, asking travel companions to collaborate on a board will help everyone get on the same page, and more importantly, get you all excited for the trip!

How have you used Pinterest to plan a vacation? Any tips? Share in the comments!

For fun travel ideas, check out my Pinterest profile.