Has that much time actually passed since your last vacation? It's definitely time to take a break from work when you start daydreaming about walking on the each, sipping a delicious cocktail at a bar or mountain biking across the open countryside. However, short breaks are similar to most other holidays -- they are supposed to be a time of rest and relaxation, yet if things do not go as planned, they can be a source of stress. You need to hold to a simple set of rules to stay stress-free.

Be cautious when picking your destination. Planning a holiday means taking everyone's feelings into account. Whether it's kids' clubs, swimming or go-carting, make sure that when you go on vacation, your children have plenty to do. If you're traveling with senior citizens, make sure you can find suitable accommodations and that travel will be fast and simple. Picking your holiday destination according to each person's likes, dislikes and limitations will make the whole experience run more smoothly.

Be sure to conduct the research needed. "Be prepared" is not only the Boy Scout motto, it should also serve everyone who goes on holiday, for preparation is definitely the key to a successful vacation. It doesn't make a difference if it's a short break because once you've departed from your home, there's really no going back. Whether you want to do a number of day trips, dine out or go sightseeing, do your homework to make sure all goes well on your holiday. Prior to traveling, find out what there is to do in the area you plan to visit. The Internet is an excellent tool for seeing what the area has to offer, and you can even find discount offers online to help you save even more money.

Be sure that you pack all the necessary supplies. Even if you are not traveling abroad there are still a lot of necessities that you should have in your suitcase, and your car. In the United Kingdom, usually journeys by road can consume much more of your time than the overseas flights, especially for short journeys. So be sure to bring along plenty of things for everyone to do, particularly the children. Include games, toys, sports equipment, movies, etc. A boring holiday can be stressful in itself so plan activities that everyone can enjoy.

Don't wipe out your finances. You don't have to spend a lot of money to take a little break. No matter when you've decided to take that short break, the value of setting a budget and sticking to it cannot be overstressed. This is not just a two week holiday, so you must adjust your budget to handle the situation. You can economize by eating out every other day and cooking for yourself on the other days.