PUFL,
I have been told that flight planning for vfr and ifr are the same, instead of aiming for visual turning points, you plan to route over beacons...
Is this broadly correct or should I aim for an off-set of a beacon to avoid dangers of collision over a beacon, etc.
You don't need to fly over the beacons unless it makes sense to do so. I usually (I say usually as that is what I used to do but don't fly GA at the moment) first look at tge VFR chart to determine a sensible general route avoid Class A and a plan B if Class D isn't available and other awkward airspace, etc. Once you have the macro route, figure out what radial/DMEs, QDM/QDRs or crosscuts you want to use to achieve that. There should be no problem dead reckoning a few miles between nice juicy fixes. Also plan a sensible place for a cloud break if arriving visual (also for possible diversions), give yourself a bit more distance than you might think you need.
Make sure your MSA assessments are accurate. Don't just use the GRID MORA, as that is probably higher than you need. Actually workout the MSA for the planned route with a bit of lateral fat. If push comes to shove, you want to know you can fly a couple of hudred feet lower if needed!
Don't forget about glide clear too.
Fix to fix navigation technique is powerful, but brain intensive (best link I could find quickly).