Travel Essentials

While going on vacation should be fun, there are always some important things you'll need to consider to make your trip go as smoothly as possible.

1. Travel Insurance

Always take out suitable travel insurance well in advance of traveling. This will cover you for any medical expenses if you involved in an accident or become ill and require hospitalization or repatriation to the US. Your policy should also cover things such as cancellation & curtailment, legal expenses, personal liability and loss of money, baggage & passport.

Check your policy to make sure that you are covered for any activity that you intend to undertake, such as scuba diving or skiing. Although most policies won't cover you for hazardous pursuits automatically, you can usually buy an extension to ensure you are sufficiently protected.

2. Passport

Make sure you have a valid passport and any appropriate visas, if required. Most countries will require you to have a full passport, valid for at least six months after your expected date of return to the US. You should also have at least two blank pages to allow room for visa stamps.

Make two copies of your passport identification page to facilitate replacement if your passport is lost or stolen. Carry one copy with you in a separate place from your passport, and leave another copy at home with friends or relatives.

3. Documents

Leave copies of your important documents with a friend or relative, in case you need a back-up sent to you in an emergency. This will include items such as tickets, visas, drivers license, insurance, medical documents and prescriptions. You should also leave a copy of your itinerary so that you can be contacted in case of an emergency.

4. Vaccinations

Make sure you are aware of any vaccination requirements for the destination you are going to. Some vaccinations need to be taken months before you travel, so give yourself plenty of time, and check with your doctor if you are unsure.

5. Identifying your Luggage

While it is important to clearly label your baggage in case it goes astray, don't use your home address on your external luggage tags. It has been known for thieves to roam airports gathering information on houses likely to be empty for the next few weeks. Either use a business card in your luggage tag, or simply add a cell phone number. Leave a copy of your full contact details inside your suitcase in case your luggage tag gets separated from your bag.