How to plan a group trip -- and actually go.

Planning a group trip can be as equally exciting as it is overwhelming.

With multiple people to coordinate and different preferences to consider, it can be challenging to organize a trip that meets everyone's needs.

But there's hope. My 6-3-1 method is a three-step process that's straightforward and makes planning group travel easier. With 6-3-1, you can plan a group trip -- and actually go. Here's how it works:

6 - 6 Month Payment Plans

Payment plans are a must-do when planning group travel. Though friends and family might seem fine with a single lump sum payment, there's a greater risk of lateness or even inability to pay when all of the money is due at once.

For most international trips, payment plans should be six months or longer, providing ample time to pay off the total amount. For example, let's say the trip is $1200 per person for hotel, activities and other trip-related plans. My 6-3-1 method would require the payments be broken into monthly installments over six months, with each payment being $200.

This helps the total cost feel like less of a burden for travelers and seems more doable.

3 - 3 Month Flight Watch

Around three months before the trip, the trip organizer should be focused on flights. If they're included in the trip amount, this is a good time to ensure they're purchased. If not, this is a good time to remind travelers to get their flights before the prices get too high.

1 - 1 Month Paid in Full

One month before departure, everyone should be paid in full. This allows for small mishaps, more time for travelers to account for spending or fun money and puts some rooms between the last payment and the beginning of the trip.

For example, let's say the trip is from July 15 - 20. My method would require the final payment from travelers to be given no later than June 15.

All in all, the 6-3-1 method makes it easier to organize the trip, collect payments and provide some structure to your planning. It can also help travelers feel more confident -- and less burdened -- with paying for the trip.