After enduring months of winter, you may be considering plans for a fun-filled spring break to a warmer climate. If so, you’ll have to think about the usual issues when planning a trip—such as ensuring your home is secure while you’ll be away, speaking to your doctor about the need for immunizations and obtaining some foreign currency.
To help make your trip more enjoyable and safe, here are some other “lesser-known” travel tips for your consideration.
- If booking a flight online, comparison shop. Don’t assume that major Internet travel companies always offer the best prices. Some airlines don’t use these vendors, so you may get a better deal by going directly to the airline’s website.
- In advance of your departure, scan all of your important travel documents (e.g., passport, travel insurance card) and email them to yourself at an address you can access on the web. That way, you’ll have the information in case the documents are lost or misplaced.
- Make, retain and reuse your travel-packing list. Dealing with what you forgot to pack can be a time-consuming hassle. Compile the list and refer to it when packing for every trip. You may also want to install a travel-packing app on your smart phone.
- If you have a travel companion, share suitcase space so that if one bag goes astray, you'll both still have changes of clothes. Remember that by packing compactly and using fewer pieces of luggage, you’ll reduce travelling concerns and have greater mobility. In the event that you have to carry your own luggage (if only for a while), you'll be able to do so with relative ease.
- If you’ll be going on a cruise, consider bringing two-way walkie-talkies. They’re a great way for family members to keep in touch while on board the ship.
- Check your flight status on the airline’s website several hours before you’re scheduled to depart. Being aware of potential problems early gives you time to make alternate arrangements. Also, be sure to sign up online for automatic flight status notification. This service enables the airline to send a text message to your mobile device with current information about your flight.
- If you’ll be travelling with a young child, consider booking airline seats apart from your partner. This way, one adult can rest while the other entertains the youngster.
- When withdrawing money from an ATM while on vacation, try to use a machine outside a bank and make sure the bank is open. If the machine “eats” your card, you may then be able to go inside and retrieve it.
- To deter thieves, don’t carry your camera, camcorder or other valuables around in a carry case featuring the logo of the electronics manufacturer (e.g., Sony, Nikon). Try to conceal these items in a regular backpack or carry bag.
Don’t Forget to Pack Travel Insurance
Looking for an excellent travel insurance plan? Travel Edge Insurance from the Canadian Dentists’ Insurance Program offers excellent options to suit your travel plans.
With Travel Edge Insurance, you’ll get:
- Year-round coverage for an unlimited number of trips—for one annual premium
- Comprehensive coverage—covering a wide range of emergency medical expenses
- Great value, since you pay for just what you need—by selecting from “maximum days per trip” options of 15, 30, 60 or 90 days
- No-cost protection for your dependent children when you and your spouse select Family Coverage
- Optional flight accident, trip cancellation and baggage loss coverage
To learn more, visit www.cdspi.com/travel or apply over the phone by calling 1-877-293-9455 (toll-free) or (416) 296-9455, extension 5002.
Travel Edge Insurance is underwritten by the member companies of the Co-Operators.
THE AUTHOR
 |
Ms. Nair is a professional insurance advisor at CDSPI Advisory Services Inc. Email: insurance@cdspiadvice.com |