How to Plan a Dude Ranch Vacation

Dude Ranch Example

A dude ranch vacation is a nicely packaged way to have a family vacation. It is not just for cowboys, or individuals who enjoy the wild, wild west. With a little thought and imagination you can plan your trip out west to experience your Dude Ranch Vacation.

Things You'll Need

• Family
• Money
• Brochures
• Time

Instructions

1. Decide what state you want to go to and which dude ranch you would like to go. Then, plan how your transportation accordingly. If money is tight and you are close enough, like less than a day's drive away, you may want to consider traveling by car. This way you have control over the stops you make, how much luggage you take and you set the pace for the trip. Kids may be more comfortable in a surrounding that is familiar to them. If you do not have the luxury of time or you are a far distance from the dude ranch, you could consider flying or traveling by train or bus.

2. Decide on a budget of time and money. Compare and contrast a few different ranch vacations and what they cost. With some vacations, you are required to stay the entire week, while others, you can divide the week in half, saving you money and time.

3. Look at what activities and amenities are included with your dude ranch vacation. Most times, you are responsible for your own transportation to the dude ranch. For a truly relaxing and less stressful experience, you may want to choose a dude ranch where your meals are included as room and board. It is also helpful to throw in adventures such as rafting, boating, camping, hay rides, dancing and more. Some of these are add-ons while others are included.

4. Make sure the ranch fits your lifestyle, personality and needs. If you are traveling with kids, you will want it to be "family friendly." Be sure your kids meet the minimum requirements for horseback riding, rafting and any other activities your family will be participating in. In addition, you may want to take a look at the size of the ranch to see if it meets your family's needs. Some are small, while others are quite large. Ranch vacations vary from camping all the way to "ultra" luxurious spa-type vacations.

5. Obtain literature and brochures by going online or calling a travel agent in your area once you decide on the state you would like to visit. You can also follow some links located within this article, as some research as been done for you. Be sure to consult tripadvisor.com to read reviews on the locations you are interested in. You can also go online to your auto club and ask for maps and brochures about where you would like to go.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure an "all inclusive" vacation is truly all-inclusive with the items you want on your vacation. Gratuities are often not included even with all inclusive.

• Call well in advance when planning a dude ranch vacation around a holiday.

• Make sure deposits are refundable in case you cannot attend during the time you reserved.

Resources

• Dude Ranch Organization
• Dude Ranch Vacations
• Gorp Travel
• Dude Ranches Guide