Congratulations on your international vacation! You’ll have plenty of fun from exploring new terrain to experiencing local foods. Aside from all of the fun you’ll have, staying safe is paramount when it comes to traveling abroad. With careful planning and being aware of certain safety precautions, you’re sure to have a wonderful trip! Follow the safety tips below to ensure your family stays safe while exploring a new country.
Research Your Destination
Prior to traveling internationally, it’s best to do some research. Find out local laws, customs, medical care, and visa requirements. Additionally, you’ll want make sure there aren’t any travel warnings or travel alerts which could hinder your plans. U.S. Passports & International Travel is a great resource for international travel information.
Also make sure you bring contact information for the closest U.S. consulate or embassy. They’ll be able to help you in the event of an emergency 24/7. For a list of U.S. embassies and consulates, visit www.usembassy.gov/.
Consider Travel Insurance
Because accidents can happen unexpectedly, it’s wise to purchase travel insurance prior to your vacation. Most travel insurance policies will cover cancelled trips, medical emergencies, and lost bags. It’s also a good idea to consider adding coverage for life insurance, rental car collision, and identity theft.
Pack Extra Prescription Medications
Medical laws abroad are different than that of the U.S., so be sure to pack extra prescription medications. You don’t want to be in a different country unable to take your medicine or fill a prescription. Prior to your trip, research the closest medical center or hospital in the event you do forget your medication.
Notify Your Bank
Ever travel out-of-state, go to use your credit card and find out that your bank froze your account? When traveling, it’s crucial to have money readily available in the event of an emergency, so be sure to notify your bank of your travel plans. Make sure to tell them where you’re traveling to and how long you’ll be out of the country.
Share Your Itinerary/Travel Plans
When traveling outside of the country, it’s always a good idea to share your itinerary and plans with family and friends. In the event of an emergency back home, they’ll know how to contact you if they can’t get a hold of you via cell phone or email. Same goes for if there’s an emergency on your trip – loved ones will be able to know your plans for the entire trip and can contact you. Plus, mom always wants to know your plans, so you’ll be giving her peace of mind.
General Security Tips
To avoid becoming a victim of crime, follow these general security tips:
- Don’t explore alone
- Withdraw money during daylight hours only
- Don’t leave valuables in your rental car
- Only take well-traveled streets
- Hide your camera when not in use
- Don’t wear or carry jewelry and purses
- Rather than carry cash, keep traveler’s checks on hand
You invested a lot of money into your international vacation, so why not protect your family as much as you can? By following the above tips, you’re bound to have a leisurely vacation knowing that you’re prepared in the event of an emergency.
By the way, did you know that Overland Chauffeured Services provides global transportation services in over 350 cities across the globe? Whether you’re traveling to London, Rome, Paris, or a number of cities around the world, we’ll provide you with a one-call, one-bill transportation solution, making your international vacation go that much smoother.
In addition to our global transportation services, we can also provide safe and reliable airport car service to and from the airport. We know traveling internationally requires a lot of luggage, so let us assist with the loading and unloading of your families’ luggage! Call (800) 575-4845 today to discuss your worldwide itinerary and airport transportation!