Sue and Bruce Mitchell
With good travel being the result of good planning, which applies to any trip you take, it’s especially true when heading to a foreign country.
It can be tempting to book a trip and start fantasizing about your getaway. Below, however, are some things to consider, which will help make your next getaway a success.
Check your passport
Take a look at your passport to be sure it is not about to expire, and check how precisely the name is displayed on the passport. Generally speaking, you want your passport to be valid at least six months after entering a foreign country.
Get vaccinated and stock up on medicine
Depending on where you’re going, you may need to get special vaccines or medications. If you routinely take any prescription medication, make sure you have enough to cover the duration of your travel.
Notify your bank and credit card providers
Before you travel, notify your bank and credit card providers to let them know where you’ll be. If the companies see foreign charges with no notice that you’re abroad, they might freeze your cards.
Make copies of travel documents
Have at least one color copy of your passport’s ID page stored somewhere safe and separate from your passport. You also should make copies of any visas pertaining to your current travel plans. Hotel reservations and train ticket confirmations, as well as all other travel documents, should be copied.
Get adapters for your electronics
Electrical outlets are different all over the world. Therefore, you’ll need to have adapters, which allow your devices to plug into foreign sockets.
Buy health and travel insurance
Before you travel, check your health insurance policy to see if it includes international coverage. If not, consider buying a short-term policy, which will cover you while you’re abroad. Similarly, a smart way to protect your trip and your money is to purchase travel insurance. Policies and coverage vary from provider to provider, but the basic idea is you can have your money refunded if your trip has to be cancelled, postponed or cut short for a number of reasons.
If you have any questions about travel, please contact Sue or Bruce Mitchell, your Cruise Planners travel specialists. Visit our website at redmountaintravel.com. You also may send an email to smitchell@cruiseplanners.com, or call (480) 396-8084.