Leaving on a family holiday is what we all look forward to throughout the year. Counting down the days until you hop on an aeroplane is all good and well, but your thoughts of cocktails on the beach might be getting in the way of your planning skills.
When we’re away from home for a while, there are important things that need to be in place. Here are a few common things that people forget to consider before heading off to their dream destination.
Insurance
Yes, insurance is one of those things that’s there to haunt you even when you’re just trying to have a good time. First of all, having adequate travel insurance is important, as this will make sure you’re covered in the case of any emergencies.
If you’re road-tripping, you’ll also want to make sure that your auto insurance is up to scratch. Check out the best auto insurance companies to make sure you have the best possible policy for your needs before you hit the road and potentially run into trouble in paradise.
Money and Credit Cards
If you’re travelling internationally, you’ll want to make extra sure that you’ll have access to your cash wherever it is you’re travelling to. You might need to call your bank ahead of time to confirm the details and let them know where you’ll be travelling to.
Another thing to plan thoroughly is your travel budget – you don’t want to be halfway through your holiday and realise you’ve already overspent!
Copies of Documents
Keeping digital (or physical) copies of all your important documents is always a safe bet. You might not end up needing them, but in the event that you do, you’ll have that peace of mind and fewer hassles. Nobody wants airport drama on the first day of their vacation.
Make copies of your identity docs, passports, visas and any other travel documentation you may need for your trip.
Emptying Your Fridge
This has less to do with your vacation experience and more to do with what you’re coming home to. Leaving your refrigerator full of leftovers and fresh produce and then disappearing for two weeks is never going to be a pleasant chore to come home to. Be sure to finish as much of the food as you can, and donate or give away the rest to someone who needs it so it won’t go to waste.
Baggage Restrictions
While you’re packing, always keep in mind what your baggage restrictions are, if you’re hopping on a flight. Arriving at the airport and being told that your bags are too heavy could result in losing some item, something nobody wants to go through, so pack as light as you can.
On this note, don’t forget to leave space (and weight!) for your holiday purchases too. Chances are, you’ll come home with a few new items for yourself as well as any souvenirs and gifts you might have picked up for your family and friends, and you’re going to need somewhere to put it all.