Traveling abroad is an incredible experience, brimming with learning opportunities and lifetime memories. In 2023 there is a boom of international travel happening after all the pandemic restrictions being lifted. However, planning your travel abroad can be a daunting task, especially when you are taking your family along. Preparation is key to ensuring that your trip runs smoothly. This article will guide you on how to efficiently prepare your family for a journey abroad.
Apply for Passports in Advance
If your family members do not already have passports, make sure to apply for them well in advance, as processing times can vary. Children’s passports have shorter validity than adults and might require more frequent renewals.
Unfortunately after the covid-19 pandemic many people decided to ramp up their international travels and because of that in the U.S. passport processing delays are HUGE. Even though State.gov website promises 7-9 weeks for expedited processing (10-13 weeks for routine processing) they often miss this mark, which is a bummer, because you actually have to pay more for expedite processing and you are not guaranteed to get your passport on time.
I am part of a big travel discussion group and this issue comes up within the group every week. What’s worth, it is almost impossible to get through to the passport issuing authorities by phone (some people wait 2-3 hours on hold). So do NOT trust 7-9 weeks expedited processing promise – added several more weeks on top of that.
Apply for Visas in Advance
Check visa requirements for the countries you plan to visit well ahead of time. Each country has different rules and processing times can be lengthy, so start this process early. The visas processing times also became longer than usual due to the big inflow of international tourists after the pandemic.
If you have a U.S. passport I found a great resource to quickly check visa requirements for all countries in the world.
Secure Comprehensive Travel Insurance
Ensuring the safety and health of your family while traveling abroad should be your top priority. When planning for your trip, one crucial step is securing reliable travel insurance. Enter companies such as UHC Travel Medical Insurance, which offer comprehensive coverage to keep your family protected throughout your journey. They offer peace of mind, allowing you and your family to fully enjoy the travel experience without worrying about potential health-related costs.
Research and Prepare for Health Concerns
Before you travel, research any health concerns prevalent in the country you’re visiting. Check if any vaccinations are necessary and make appointments for your family to get them. Additionally, consider any prescription medications your family members might need during the trip. Ensure you have enough to last for the entire journey and any necessary documents to carry them legally.
I also strongly suggest taking a DIY first aid kit when you travel abroad to make sure you have all the necessities at hand.
Plan Your Itinerary Carefully
When traveling with family, it’s vital to plan an itinerary that caters to everyone’s interests. If you have young children, consider their needs and attention spans while planning sightseeing or outdoor activities. Teens might appreciate a mix of cultural activities and leisure time. Discuss the plan with your family members, letting them contribute their ideas and preferences.
Account for jet lag recovery time in your itinerary which will be longer the bigger is the time difference between your place of residence and the destination.
Pack Wisely
Packing for a family trip can be a bit of a challenge, especially when trying to stay within luggage weight limits. Make a checklist for each family member and ensure to include all essentials such as clothing, toiletries, medications, and entertainment for kids. It’s also wise to pack a change of clothes and a few essentials in your carry-on, just in case your checked luggage is delayed.
Prepare for the Culture
Learning about the culture, traditions, and language of the country you’re visiting can enhance your trip and prevent potential cultural misunderstandings. Teach your children simple phrases in the local language, discuss the local customs, and share fun facts about the destination. This preparation can make the experience more enriching and exciting for them.
Make Copies of Important Documents
Before leaving, make copies of all your important documents. This includes passports, travel insurance policy, driving license, and itinerary. Having these on hand can be a lifesaver in case of lost or stolen items. You can also consider storing digital copies in a secure online location.
Think about Safety
Not all places in the world are safe to travel to. Many popular international travel destinations, such as Rio de Janeiro and Italy (big cities) have problems with theft of valuables. Think about obtaining some anti-theft travel accessories before you travel.
Are you planning to drive a car while abroad? Please, check out my earlier post about how to be a safe driver.
Conclusion
I hope your trip abroad is enjoyable and stress free. If you found this article useful, please, share it with others is it may help them in planning their travel too.
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