Planning a trip, and all that comes with it is a challenging process. From picking where to go to picking how you’re getting there, there are so many things to keep in mind. Not to mention hotels, tours, and even where to eat! It gets overwhelming fast!
Before you even take off, there are a few important things that everyone seems to forget! I’ve put together a few of them so you can be prepared for your next big adventure and avoid any unwanted stress or difficulties along the way.
Before Your Next Trip
Here are 7 things to be before your next big trip:
Get Travel Insurance
Unfortunately, sometimes accidents happen while traveling. Whether it is lost luggage, getting food poisoning or a cancellation, many things can not be avoided but they can be covered if you are covered. Travel insurance will often only set you back about $100 but can save you a world of headaches in the future.
It is important to remember to do your research and find a reputable company that covers where you’re going, what you’re doing and what you want it to cover. Some travel insurances cover property, while others don’t, some only cover health care in certain countries, and some don’t even cover petty theft!
Copies of Important Documents
Make copies of your passport and other important travel documents.
I always travel with physical copies of my passport in various places in my bags and a digital copy on a cloud service. That way, if I lose my passport somehow, I will have the info with me. I also keep a copy in a safe at home.
Notify Banks and Credit Card Companies
Call your bank and credit cards to put a travel alert on the accounts.
Nothing is worse than going to use your card for the first time in a new country and being declined. It’s embarrassing and it typically costs you in phone charges, time, and energy! Avoid the unwanted declines and phone calls and alert your bank accounts ahead of time.
Some credit card companies no longer require this, but better safe than sorry.
Phone Plans
Make sure your phone will work where you are heading and if it won’t, what will you do for communications.
As we become more dependent on our phone we need to make sure it will work. Call your carrier and they may be able to upgrade you for international calls for the month or for the week.
There is also the option of purchasing a different SIM card while you are in another country. Just be sure you research these items prior to your trip so you are not stranded with no way to communicate.
Events and Advance Tickets
Research important events and buy tickets in advance.
Often, larger events or tours will sell out well before you arrive at your destination. If there are a few key attractions that you must see when on your trip, buy your tickets in advance!
Another thing to do is to purchase any internal, short flights well in advance as well. Although it can be complicated to decide on times and days for internal travel, it can save you hundreds of dollars in the long term. Budget flights within Europe, for example, are often around $25 a few weeks in advance but will skyrocket to over $200 just days before.
Think About Electricity
Purchase any adapters or converters you may need. You want to be especially sure your phone can be charged.
Not sure what you need, you can check it out on this page showing types of plugs, sockets, etc. for each country.
Sure, you can always pick them up when you get to your destination, but they are often much much more expensive at convenience stores near hotels and in airports.
Your Carry On
Pack snacks and a change of clothes in your carry on.
Avoid paying for overpriced garbage in the airports and pack snacks for yourself and kids for flights and transit. Also, don’t forget to throw a full change of clothes in your carry on just in case your checked bag goes missing during the flight.
BONUS ITEM
Vaccinations
Check necessary vaccinations before your next trip.
Some countries have vaccination requirements in order to enter and others just have diseases that we don’t typically get vaccinated for in the US anymore. There are plenty of resources available online or consult with your doctor to help you determine what are the best options for you and for where you are heading.
Follow these steps before your next trip or great adventure and you’ll be well on your way to a stress-free, fun experience!
