You are ready for your trip! Your set right? Tickets? Check. Suitcase? Check. Kids? What else? Here is some information that can help you not only prepare for your travel, but also help you in in the event you experience a problem while away.
Getting Organized Before You Go
Road Travel: How many times have you experienced delays and felt so frustrated because you have driven into large construction zones that delay your travel significantly? Likely more than not especially in the summer months. In addition to planning your route, mileage, and potential gas consumption, I recommend that you check with the American Automobile Association (AAA) or Traffic.com to pre-determine what construction areas you may wish to avoid.
Airlines Travel: Airlines, in this day and age, have a lot of travel requirements. It is always a good idea to visit the airline website before you start your trip. You will find information on luggage allowances and charges as well as what items must be checked versus carried on the plane. These sites serve to remind you what vital personal information you will need to board the plane, i.e., having the name on your ticket match your driver’s license, passport or picture ID. You will also find detailed requirements for children traveling alone and pet transportation.
International Travel: When traveling internationally you will need a passport and sometimes a Visa. One of the best sources of information about your destination is www.travel.state.gov. This site can also give you information about current health concerns and what immunizations are helpful when visiting that locale. It is a good idea to have a few color copies of your passport. Give one copy to someone you trust for safe keeping and take the others with you. If something happens to the original you have back up in several places. For more helpful travel tips, download my handy checklist. Another thing to consider is trip insurance. Stuff happens that may cause you to delay or cancel an expensive trip. If you have a non-refundable vacation package, plan on driving a car in a foreign country or using a boat or personal watercraft or if you’re traveling with fine art, jewelry, or special equipment I would strongly recommend it.
Vital Information: Leave a paper trail, that includes your itinerary and vital personal information such as emergency contacts and your medical information with a loved one or neighbor. It is also good to have your frequent flyer/membership numbers and credit card account and “800″ lost or stolen card numbers. Keep all of this information in one safe place so you can find it quickly and easily when needed. Now you’ve done the leg work, so have fun! You have created peace of mind for yourself and your loved ones. Enjoy your journey and have a good summer!