Because every list-maker needs a starting place

These days planning a vacation can feel like it takes travel-agent-level skills. The options are endless, the itineraries countless, and the tools available for a DIY approach are readily available. Unfortunately, sometimes that leads to overwhelm.

Hi, I’m Shawna, a mother of two young adults, living in southern California, who’s been there and done that when it comes to travel, from family trips to solo wandering to group overnights to couple’s getaways. I’m a Pennsylvania girl though, who graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in journalism, which also comes in handy here on the blog.

I tend to crave novelty when it comes to places and experiences, which has led me to visit 40 of the 50 US states (and counting), 12 US national parks, and about 7 countries outside the US. Those aren’t outrageous numbers, but I’ve seen a lot and enjoyed every minute of it.

Over the years, I’ve learned how being strategic can improve the experience for everyone. By, like, a lot.

My mission is to help women who love to travel go from overwhelmed to organized. After years of practice, I’ve learned how to make it simpler, more strategic, and far less stressful.

My goal is not for you to plan every minute of your trip. In fact, some of the best travel moments happen when you leave room for wandering, lingering, discovering, and changing your mind.

But a little smart planning can make those spontaneous moments easier to enjoy. A good place to stay. A realistic itinerary. And a backup plan. Fewer “wait, did anyone bring the…?” moments.

Look for destinations and practical tips here in the coming months, and please sign up for my email list so you can travel vicariously with me from your inbox or plan that next trip!

The Practical Trip Planning Blog creates helpful travel guides, packing tips, itinerary ideas, and realistic vacation-planning resources for everyday travelers.