Are you planning a vacation this year? You’ll be far less likely to leave something behind or find yourself dashing around at the last minute because you’ve forgotten to do something if you prepare beforehand.
Your annual holiday may be a few months away, but it’s never too soon to start preparing. Below are seven essential things you need to do before you start packing:
- Check Your Passport
This is one of the most important things to do a couple of months in advance. Make sure you know where it is and, most importantly, check that it’s still valid. To travel to most countries, you’ll need at least six months left on your passport to enter the country. As well as your passport, find out whether you need a travel visa, or if you need to apply for an international driving license.
- What Will You be Allowed to Carry on the Flight
It is something airlines seem to change almost as often as the weather. Even if you’ve traveled recently, it will still pay to check your baggage allowance. Finding yourself stuck at the check-in desk and having to pay extra is not going to get your holiday off on the right foot!
- Will Your Home be Secure?
Before you leave, make sure your home is secure. Cancel any deliveries such as milk or newspapers, double and triple check doors and windows. If you’ve got a friendly neighbor, ask them to keep an eye on your home and remove mail if it’s left sticking out of your mailbox.
- Make Sure Your Pets are Taken Care Of
It’s not very likely you’ll be taking your pets with you abroad so don’t forget to organize care for them while you’re away. Leaving your pets in the care of a pet-sitting service means you’ll be able to sit back and relax knowing they’re also enjoying a vacation. Many towns and cities have local dog walkers who can exercise your fur baby while you’re away or doggy daycare centers where they can stay.
- Book Your Airport Parking
Have you thought about how you’re going to get to the airport and home again after your vacation? Airport transfers are very affordable, but if you’d prefer to take your own car, make sure you book your airport parking space. Book in advance, and you’ll probably save money.
- Take Out Travel Insurance
It’s impossible to predict whether you’ll fall ill when on vacation, so make sure you take out travel insurance. Pick the right travel insurance policy, and you’ll also be covered for cancelations, loss of baggage and travel delays.
- Accessing Your Money
Will you be taking cash with you or are you planning to rely on ATMs for getting your money out? If you’re planning to use your credit or debit card when paying for goods or withdrawing money, you’ll need to advise your bank that you’re traveling abroad. If you don’t, you risk having your card blocked which could prove to be very inconvenient.
How do you plan for international travel? Let us know in the comments below!
