Going on vacation is super fun, but it can also be super stressful—especially if you’re traveling with your family. Here are some of the essential things to take care of before you head out.
Check Passport Expiries, Visa Requirements, and Travel Insurance
A friend of mine, let’s call her Skye, was flying from the US to Australia, via Europe. Since she’d never been, she thought it might be a good idea to stop off in India. On arriving at immigration in Mumbai, she was politely informed that no, her American passport didn’t grant her access to India, she needed a visa—which she had to get before she left. It took no small measure of begging, but eventually, she was deported and put on a flight bound for Sydney, rather than returned to London which is strictly what should have happened.
Travel, especially international travel, is bound by lots of rules and regulations. Run afoul of them and your vacation can be ruined. The most important ones are around your passport and any visas you need.
A few weeks before you leave, make sure you (and everyone you’re traveling with) have a valid passport. Check the expiry date requirements too: some countries, including the US, require passports to be valid for a minimum of six months from the date of your arrival. Just because it’s still technically in date, doesn’t mean you’ll get in.
RELATED: A Short Guide to Visas
Also, check if you need a visa and, if so, what kind you need. Some countries offer E-Visas or visa waivers that take a few moments to fill in online, while others require you to send your passport off to an embassy or consulate. A site like Do You Need Visa is a great place to start, though you’ll want to double check any information with the official site of the country you’re visiting. It can change with zero notice. If this is your first time thinking about visas, check out our short guide to visas to familiar yourself.
At the same time, check what sort of travel coverage your health insurance gives you. Some plans offer emergency care when you’re abroad. If you’re not covered by your health insurance or want some extra protection for flight delays and your baggage getting lost, think about travel insurance. You might need to buy your own plan, or you could be covered by one of your credit cards. Just make sure your trip meets all the requirements for coverage.
Secure Your Home
The last thing you want after a relaxing week on the beach is to come home and find your house burgled so before you go, you should take steps to secure your home.
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Source : Things You Should Take Care of Before Leaving on Vacation
