Meet Megan Campbell | Travel Planner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Megan Campbell and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Megan, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting my own business as a travel planner (www.MegansTravelMagic.com) was a natural evolution of my lifelong passion for exploration and the joy I find in crafting unforgettable experiences. For me, planning a trip is like piecing together a puzzle, and there’s nothing quite like the thrill of organizing a journey. Travel has been a significant part of my life since childhood, fueled by family vacations and gymnastics competitions that took me across the country. Over the years, I’ve orchestrated countless adventures, from scenic road trips through New England to memorable multi-generational excursions in Alaska, each filled with excitement and discovery.

A cornerstone of my journey is my deep love for Disney. With six visits to Disney World and one to Disneyland, I’ve developed a true obsession with the magic that Disney embodies. The intricate nature of planning Disney trips fascinates me; it’s a complex and ever-evolving puzzle. Whether I’m securing hard-to-get dining reservations, like the exclusive chef’s table at Victoria & Albert’s, or participating in unique park tours, the joy and wonder of Disney are unmatched. I am passionate about sharing that enchantment with others.

Friends and family have often turned to me for travel advice, recognizing my knack for creating seamless and enjoyable experiences. Their encouragement inspired me to transform my passion into a profession. By launching Megan’s Travel Magic, I can now extend my expertise to a broader audience, helping more people embark on their own unforgettable journeys. It brings me immense fulfillment to assist others in experiencing the joy of travel and to enhance the lives of my clients with memorable adventures.

We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about you and your work. How did you get to where you are today professionally? Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way? What do you want the world to know about you, your brand, and story?
My career journey has been anything but conventional. I initially pursued a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, driven by a desire to create and innovate. However, life took an unexpected turn when I discovered I had a genetic disorder, which made maintaining a traditional full-time job nearly impossible due to frequent doctor appointments and health management.

During this challenging time, I recognized the importance of living fully in the moments when I felt my best. Travel became my sanctuary—an opportunity to explore the world, indulge in incredible cuisine, and create lasting memories. Disney, in particular, holds a special place in my heart; it’s a realm where magic is palpable, and joy is inescapable. This joy inspired my transition into travel planning.

What sets me apart in this industry is my Type A personality and perfectionist nature. I am deeply passionate about travel and dedicated to ensuring that every project I undertake is a success. I thrive on helping others uncover their own adventures, meticulously planning every detail along the way. I believe that hard work deserves to be balanced with relaxation and enjoyment—traveling well is essential to a fulfilling life.

While my path hasn’t been easy, the challenges I faced have shaped me into who I am today. I’ve learned the value of resilience and the importance of seizing opportunities when they arise. My story is one of transformation; I turned my struggles into a career that not only allows me to support myself but also helps others experience the joy of travel.

Through my brand, I want the world to know that every moment counts. Life is too short not to embrace adventure and create memories. I am dedicated to helping others explore the world luxuriously, striving to make travel planning as enjoyable and seamless as possible. In the end, it’s about living life to the fullest, savoring every experience, and indulging in the pleasures that travel has to offer, regardless of the challenges we face.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 1: Arrival and Short North Exploration
Morning: Breakfast at Katalina’s – Start with a farm-to-table breakfast in the Short North area.
Afternoon: Explore the Short North Arts District – Discover galleries, boutiques, and vibrant street art.
Drinks: Enjoy a lively atmosphere at spots like The Pint House or The Bodega.
Dinner: Enjoy Italian cuisine at Marcella’s.
Evening: Hit up downtown bars, like The Sacred Palm (below Mikey’s Late Night Slice), Short North Tavern, TownHall, Union, or Howl at the Moon

Day 2: Culture and Sports Downtown
Morning: Breakfast at DK Diner.
Mid-Morning: Visit COSI (Center of Science and Industry) – Engage with interactive exhibits for a fun, educational experience.
Afternoon: Lunch at Milestone 229.
Evening: Attend a Columbus Crew Game at Lower.com Field.

Day 3: Dublin and Bridge Park Night Out
Morning: Visit the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.
Lunch: Nocterra Brewing followed by Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream.
Afternoon: Walk around Historic Dublin and explore its charming streets.
Dinner: Enjoy comforting dishes at Cap City Fine Diner.
Night: Explore Bridge Park/Historic Dublin – Enjoy drinks and nightlife at places like The Pearl or Pins.

Day 4: Lynn’s Farm and Easton
Morning: Breakfast at Dan the Baker, then head to Lynn’s Fruit Farm.
Lunch: Northstar Cafe (Easton) for healthy and delicious options.
Afternoon: Explore Easton Town Center and shop.
Dinner/Night: Grandview Theater for drinks, pizza, and a movie.

Day 5: German Village
Morning: Breakfast at Fox in the Snow Café – Delight in pastries and coffee.
Early Lunch: Thurman’s for a famous burger.
Afternoon: Visit Schiller Park (maybe catch a play) and browse at The Book Loft.
Early Dinner: Enjoy a hearty meal at Schmidt’s.
Night: Visit Little Grand (Grandview) for live music or drinks.

Day 6: Ohio State Campus and Football Game
Morning: Breakfast at HangOverEasy.
Late Morning: Explore Ohio State’s campus and tailgate.
Evening: Attend the Ohio State Football Game at Ohio Stadium.

Day 7: Franklin Park Observatory and Farewell
Morning: Breakfast at Brekkie Shack.
Mid-Morning: Visit Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.
Afternoon: time to head home

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my family and my husband, who have been instrumental in my journey. My parents sparked my passion for travel, creating countless cherished memories and nurturing my love for exploring new destinations. Their encouragement to travel the world—whether it was visiting Europe or living in different parts of the country—ignited my lifelong desire to discover new horizons. My siblings also played a vital role, suggesting that I pursue a career in travel planning and planting the seeds for my future.

My family, including my husband, has been my steadfast travel partners, eagerly joining me on trips I’ve organized—whether we were exploring stunning national parks, attending Ohio State away games, or immersing ourselves in the magic of Disney parks. They have supported me at every turn since I decided to embark on this career, recommending me to friends and providing valuable insights into business strategies. My husband has even taken the initiative to create engaging social media reels to promote my work and has assisted me at local street markets.

Their unwavering support and belief in my dreams have been invaluable, and I am truly grateful for their pivotal roles in my story. They have not only fueled my passion for travel but have also made this journey all the more rewarding.

Website: https://www.meganstravelmagic.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meganstravelmagic/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556959420452