Few gifts are more cherished than a trip, but there are some pitfalls to surprising a loved one with a voyage. You could book a non-refundable flight during a busy time at the recipient's workplace, for instance. Find out how to avoid the problems of giving a present of a trip, and learn about creative ways to package this unique gift.
Do Your Homework
The gift of a whirlwind trip to Paris sounds great, but what if the recipient can't even go? Do whatever you can first to be sure the recipient wants to go, can go, and can afford to go. You can do this by clandestine inquiries to co-workers, if possible, to find out whether the person can get time off. You can also drop hints around the recipient, such as noting that there is a great deal on airfare, and see what response you get.
Don't Make Irreversible Commitments
Even if you are 99 percent sure that the recipient can get time off and is dying to go on this trip, cover yourself. Don't book non-refundable airfare, and be sure to check cancellation policies for hotel bookings. That way, if the recipient can't go at that time, the plans are flexible. That doesn't mean the gift isn't a gift. You can even reserve seats on a plane online the day before giving the gift, and print the confirmation. Then, if the person says yes, go ahead and book it.
Consider the Recipient's Circumstances
Even if you buy the airfare and pay for lodging, keep in mind that you are committing the recipient to spending money - and they might not have the spare cash. If you will be traveling with the recipient, you can also offer to pay for meals and a few souvenirs. If you won't and know money is tight, provide some cash or find any items you can purchase ahead of time. For instance, many cities have tourism cards that cover entry fees to several attractions or unlimited rides on public transport.
Look Into Gifts Without a Set Date
Another option is to purchase items that have flexible dates, such as gift certificates with tour agencies, rail passes (which can usually be used as late as six months after the purchase date), or contact a hotel to find out about giving them your credit card for use by the gift recipient (you can specify to only cover the lodging, and no extras).
Package It Right
The gift of travel can be a bit intangible, so that presents a challenge when deciding what to wrap. Let yourself be creative. For instance, I gave my husband a trip to Germany and the Riviera during the Cannes Film Festival. I wrote a booklet of sorts, using clip art, reservation confirmations and destination photos, that took him through the trip step by step. Then I put the pages into a report cover. You could also pair the trip with gifts of travel guidebooks or local products.
