College Road Trip Planning Checklist & Timeline
A simple checklist for booking, packing, and departure day.
Keep flights, lodging, and packing on track. Share the countdown with your travel companions.
Get the free iPhone appCreate a countdown in Outside, then add your widget.
Planning timeline
30 days before
- Book flights and lodging
- Request time off
- Check passports or documents
- Start a packing list
14 days before
- Book activities or reservations
- Plan transportation
- Review travel requirements
- Buy travel essentials
7 days before
- Confirm reservations
- Share itinerary with companions
- Set a budget for the trip
- Set packing reminders
1 day before
- Pack essentials
- Charge devices
- Set travel alarms
- Download tickets and confirmations
Need inspiration?
Home Screen Widgets
Beautiful countdown widgets that sit right on your home screen.
Lock Screen Widgets
See your countdown without even unlocking your phone.
Live Activities
Real-time countdown updates on your Dynamic Island.
See the app in action
Use the same Outside app experience you saw on the homepage to keep the date in view with a countdown and share it with your group.
Outside App - Upcoming Events
Related date pages
Travel without stress
Use Outside to count down to your event. Keep the itinerary and booking details in your usual notes or shared document; custom countdown reminders require Outside Pro.
Share the countdown
Invite travel companions so everyone stays aligned.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start planning?
Start earlier when dates are fixed, your group is large or travel is during a busy period. Check availability and cancellation terms before booking; no lead time guarantees the best price.
Can I share my itinerary?
Share the countdown using a free account. Share the itinerary separately in your usual messages or document. Custom countdown reminders require Outside Pro.
How do I avoid last-minute packing?
Use reminders 7 days and 1 day before departure.