Essential tips for a safe trip
Summer is for vacations and travel! It’s a time to get away from it all and have fun, while leaving your worries behind. That’s why it’s so important to be well organized and to be aware of best practices.
Here are 10 essential tips for safe travel, to help you enjoy your vacation with a clear conscience.
1. Check your travel insurance
Before you leave, make sure your travel insurance provides adequate coverage for emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation and repatriation. Certain destinations, such as overseas or northern Québec, may require specific coverage.
Call your insurance broker to make sure everything is in order before you leave.
2. Secure your home
Leaving your home for several days can sometimes be stressful. It’s a good idea to give the illusion that the house is inhabited while you’re gone, to keep burglars away.
Before you leave, check all doors and windows to make sure they’re locked. Install timers for interior lighting to simulate your presence. Ask a trusted neighbor to pick up the mail and visit your house a few times to make sure everything is ok.
These essential tips for safe travel may sometimes seem extreme, but they could help you avoid nasty surprises.
3. Avoid posting your plans on social networks
It’s obviously tempting to share your beautiful travel moments on social networks. It’s not every day that you can show off beautiful beach photos! However, this kind of sharing announces loud and clear that your home is empty.
Rest assured; you can absolutely share these special moments on social media, just wait till you get back home to do it.
4. Make copies of important documents
Before you leave, make copies of your passport, insurance card and other important documents. Keep them in a safe place and leave a copy with someone you trust.
Sometimes, when you’re having fun on the road, you could fall prey to a little carelessness. If you happen to lose important documents, you’ll have another copy at your disposal.
5. When traveling, safety comes first
Of course, before you leave, it’s important to find out all you can about the area you’ll be visiting.
Make sure you know the local emergency numbers and keep them handy. Avoid dangerous areas and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
6. Protect your personal belongings
Depending on the destination, the incidence of theft may be higher than at home. Unfortunately, such factors should be considered when planning for a safe trip.
Use hotel safes for your valuables. Avoid showing off your valuables and keep an eye on your handbag or backpack in crowded places.
7. Driving tips
If you plan to rent a car, find out about local driving and parking requirements. Make sure you have adequate auto insurance to cover potential damage.
8. Be careful with food and water
In destinations where tap water is undrinkable, use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Avoid street food, which may be inadequately cooked or washed.
9. Stay connected
Stay in touch with your loved ones! Keep them informed of your itinerary and contact details. Have a reliable means of communication, such as a cell phone with a local SIM card or activate roaming settings.
10. Prepare for the unexpected
Pack a first-aid kit with basic medicines and personal care items. Also have an emergency action plan, including how to contact your travel insurance carrier if necessary.
Enjoy!
By following these essential tips for safe travel, you’ll be able to enjoy your summer vacation to the fullest, while ensuring your personal safety and the protection of your possessions. You’ll know that everything has been taken care of and that, should anything happen, you’ll be in safe hands.
So relax, enjoy yourself., and have a great vacation!
