10 Steps to Planning a Trip to Gatlinburg with Your Girlfriends

Are you and your girl squad ready for an adventure in the Smoky Mountains? Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is the perfect destination for a girls’ trip filled with outdoor activities, shopping, and delicious food. But before you pack your bags and hit the road, there are a few important steps to take to ensure your trip is a success. Follow these ten steps for planning the ultimate Gatlinburg getaway with your besties.

Gatlinburg offers the perfect mix of natural beauty and small-town charm. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an action-packed adventure, Gatlinburg has something for everyone.

Step 1: Determine the Dates

Before you start planning anything else, it’s crucial to determine the dates of your trip. This will give you a clear deadline for booking accommodations and activities and help you coordinate schedules with your friends.

One way to coordinate schedules is to create a shared Google Calendar or a group chat where everyone can share their availability. You can also use a voting system to determine the best dates for most of the group.

Step 2: Set a Budget

Setting a budget is essential for any trip, but it’s especially important when traveling with a group. A budget will help you avoid overspending and ensure everyone is comfortable with the trip’s cost.

When budgeting for transportation, consider the cost of gas, flights, or train tickets. For accommodations, look for deals and discounts on hotels or vacation rentals. And when budgeting for activities, research the prices of different activities and plan accordingly.

Step 3: Research Accommodations

Gatlinburg offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious vacation rentals. If you’re looking for great hotels Gatlinburg Tennessee offers plenty for every group’s taste and budget.

One way to find deals on accommodations is to book early, as many properties offer discounts for advance bookings. You can also search for deals and discounts on travel websites or sign up for email alerts from your favorite properties.

When choosing accommodations for your group, consider the size of your group, the amenities you want (such as a pool or hot tub), and the property’s location. If you’re planning on doing a lot of outdoor activities, look for a property close to the park or the downtown area.

Step 4: Plan Your Transportation

Depending on where you’re coming from, there are several transportation options to Gatlinburg. You can drive, fly into Knoxville, TN and rent a car, or take a bus or train.

Compare the cost of flights, rental cars, and gas to determine the most cost-effective option for your group. Also, consider the time and convenience of each option. For example, if you’re traveling from a nearby city, driving may be the most convenient option, but if you’re coming from farther away, flying into Knoxville and renting a car may be a better option.

If you decide to rent a car, be sure to book it well in advance to secure the best rates. Also, check with your accommodation to see if they offer to park or if you need to reserve a spot in advance.

Step 5: Make a List of Activities

Gatlinburg offers a wide range of activities, from hiking and skiing in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to shopping and dining in the downtown area. Some popular activities include taking a scenic drive on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, visiting the aquarium, or taking a chairlift to the top of the Ober Gatlinburg Ski Area and Amusement Park.

Before you start planning activities, talk to your friends and make a list of what everyone wants to do. Then, prioritize the activities based on your group’s interests and create a balanced itinerary that includes a mix of outdoor activities, shopping, and relaxation.

Many activities in Gatlinburg offer discounts or deals for groups or booking online in advance. Be sure to check the websites of the activities you’re interested in and look for any special offers.

Step 6: Make Dining Reservations

Gatlinburg offers various dining options, from casual cafes and pizzerias to fine-dining restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a gourmet meal, there’s something for every palate.

One way to find the best restaurants is to ask locals for recommendations or check online reviews. Once you’ve decided on a few restaurants, be sure to make reservations in advance, especially during peak season.

To save money on meals, consider packing a cooler with snacks and sandwiches for on-the-go meals. Also, look for restaurants that offer group discounts or have a fixed-price menu.

Step 7: Pack Smart

Pack clothing and gear that is appropriate for the season and the activities you have planned. For example, if you’re planning on hiking, pack comfortable shoes and a waterproof jacket.

To save space and avoid overpacking, make a list of essentials and stick to it. Also, consider using packing cubes or compression bags to maximize space in your suitcase.

Step 8: Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance can provide peace of mind in case of unexpected events such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost baggage.

Research different travel insurance options and compare coverage, cost, and customer reviews before making a decision.

Step 9: Plan for Emergencies

Emergencies can happen at any time, and it’s essential to have a plan in place to ensure the safety of your group. Before you leave for your trip, discuss emergency procedures and make sure everyone knows who to contact in case of an emergency.

Tips for staying safe include being aware of your surroundings, staying together as a group, and avoiding dangerous situations. Be sure to have emergency contact information for each member of your group and local emergency services.

Step 10: Follow Up After the Trip

After your trip, schedule a get-together with your friends to reminisce about the trip. You can share photos and stories and maybe even plan your next trip together.

To preserve memories from your trip, consider creating a photo album or scrapbook or writing a trip diary. You could also make a video or create a blog post about your trip to share with friends and family.

Conclusion

From determining the dates and setting a budget to researching accommodations and planning transportation, these steps will help you plan the ultimate Gatlinburg getaway with your girl squad.

With a little bit of planning and preparation, you and your friends can enjoy a stress-free and unforgettable trip to Gatlinburg. So, don’t forget to have fun and make lasting memories with your besties.