Photo by Jakob Owens on Unsplash
When planning a trip it’s hard to know where to get inspiration for things to do. Whilst it can be hard to know where to look, there are lots of unlikely places you probably never thought of.
In a world that is so heavily influenced by social media, instagram is becoming more and more popular when it comes to travel. People are posting their stunning travel photos and amazing selfies from their trips all over their Instagram, helping people find all of the best spots while travelling.
With that in mind, here are 6 ways to use Instagram to plan your next vacation:
- Search Through Destination Specific Hashtags
If you’re looking for inspiration for a particular destination, searching location specific hashtags is a great way to find out what kind of places you can visit. As one of the most common ways for people to tag their travel photos, these hashtags are the best ways to get a good feel for the destination. Try search hashtags like #visitlondon, #miamiflorida and #balilife to see what people are posting.
The same works for activities and excursions as if you’re looking for something to do you can search the hashtags for ideas. For example, if you’re looking for boat rental in Miami, you can search #miamiboats, #miamisea and #boatsinmiami.
- Use Location Tagging To Search Your Destination
Similar to hashtags, searching a location will allow you to see lots of incredible photos from the destinations you’re visiting. They can give you ideas about where to go, where to stay and what kind of photos you can take when you’re travelling.
- Save Images Using Collections
Instagram has a feature that allows you to save photos into a collection. Not only does this allow you to organise photos you love, but it gives you a chance to organise your photos by destination. Using the save button you can create a collection for each and every destination you’re visiting – or want to visit – helping you clearly plan exactly where you want to go.
- Use Foodie Hashtags To Find Out Where To Eat
If you love exploring places to eat when you travel you can find the best places to go by searching locations based foodie hashtags. Often these tend to be similar #londonfoodies, #miamifood and #thebalifoodguide – changing the destination to where you’re visiting.
- Follow Travel Bloggers And Locals
If you want inspiration about your next place to visit, try following travel bloggers and locals. They’ll regularly be posting photos that will make you want to pack your bags and get on a plane.
- Search Out Tourism Boards And Local Businesses
One final great way to find inspiration for your upcoming trip is to find the tourism board and any local businesses in the destination you’re visiting. They’ll post lots of advice and ideas for places you can visit, showing you an insiders perspective.
Are you planning a vacation? How do you use Instagram to plan in advance? Let me know in the comment section below.
Author: Maralyn
Maralyn Dennis Hill, The Epicurean Explorer, is president emeritus of International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association, member of Society of American Travel Writers, and Society of Professional Journalists. She is Executive Editor of Luxe Beat Magazine and contributes to other publications. She also speaks and is a guest on many shows. The majority of Maralyn’s articles are now geared to the luxury market, spas, corporate retreats, business events, and culinary tourism, from simple to gourmet. Maralyn’s description of herself: I was born to travel and tell the tale. I’m energized by different cultures in every aspect of their lives, from food, wine, and destination, to how they conduct business. Travel represents a continual geography lesson.
