Your Journey, Your Way: How Brad Schnickel Makes Travel Planning Effortless and Extraordinary

Planning a vacation should be exciting—but for many travelers, it quickly turns into a maze of choices, deadlines, and second-guessing. Where should you stay? Which route offers the best value? How do you make sure you’re not missing out on something unforgettable?

For Brad Schnickel, a veteran travel advisor with over 15 years of experience, solving those challenges is more than a job—it’s a calling. Based in Minnesota and leading Ocean Beach Travel, Brad has built his career around one mission: making travel stress-free, highly personalized, and deeply rewarding.

From Conversation to Creation

Brad’s process begins with listening. Before suggesting any destination or deal, he takes time to understand each client’s vision. Is this a romantic escape, a long-awaited family trip, a solo adventure, or a multi-stop bucket-list tour? Are you hoping to see the big sights or discover hidden corners? Do you want a packed itinerary or plenty of downtime?

By asking the right questions, Brad transforms vague ideas into clear, actionable travel plans. The result: itineraries that feel custom-built, because they are.

Balancing Dreams and Practicality

Travel isn’t just about what you want to see—it’s about how you experience it. Brad knows that a dream trip can be ruined by poor timing, overcrowded attractions, or overstuffed schedules. That’s why he blends must-see destinations with smart pacing and insider recommendations.

He might suggest visiting Rome’s Colosseum early in the morning to avoid lines, pairing a famous Caribbean resort with a quieter island day trip, or adding an unexpected local festival to your itinerary for a richer cultural experience.

Experience That Speaks Volumes

Brad’s value as an advisor comes not just from industry knowledge but from a lifetime of travel. He has explored destinations across the U.S., Europe, and the Caribbean—often alongside his wife and son. Those personal journeys give him perspective on what works (and what doesn’t) for couples, families, solo travelers, and groups.

He’s navigated the realities of long flights, theme park strategies, cruise excursions, and cross-country road trips. This firsthand knowledge allows him to offer practical tips, from the best seating on certain flights to which resorts have the most kid-friendly amenities.

Always in Your Corner

Even the best-planned trips can face hiccups. Flights get delayed, weather shifts plans, or a hotel room isn’t what you expected. When that happens, Brad is more than a planner—he’s a problem-solver. His clients know they can call or message him anytime for quick, effective solutions, whether that’s securing a new reservation, rearranging a tour, or finding an alternative route.

Maximizing Value Without Sacrificing Quality

Brad’s extensive network of travel partners gives him access to exclusive offers and upgrades. From complimentary breakfasts and spa credits to private transfers and special tours, he knows how to add value in ways that make your trip more memorable—without adding unnecessary costs.

He’s equally skilled at budget optimization, making sure your money is spent where it matters most to you, whether that’s a better hotel, unique experiences, or more time at your favorite destination.

Staying Ahead of the Curve

The travel industry changes constantly—new airline policies, shifting entry requirements, evolving safety protocols. Brad stays informed so his clients don’t have to, ensuring they have accurate, up-to-date information before they depart. He also provides packing guides, cultural etiquette tips, and destination-specific advice to help travelers feel prepared.

A Relationship That Lasts

For Brad, a client isn’t just a one-time booking. Many return year after year, trusting him to plan everything from milestone celebrations to spontaneous weekend escapes. That long-term connection means Brad understands his clients’ evolving preferences, making each new trip even better than the last.

The Bottom Line

When you work with Brad Schnickel, you’re not just buying a ticket or reserving a room—you’re gaining a trusted travel partner who’s as invested in your journey as you are. With his blend of expertise, empathy, and creativity, Brad ensures that every trip is more than just a vacation—it’s an experience worth remembering.

So if you’re ready to travel smarter, stress less, and enjoy more, it’s time to see what’s possible with Brad in your corner.