Smart Travel Starts Before You Leave the House

When it comes to taking a vacation, spontaneous adventures may sound exciting, but a little extra preparation can make all the difference. By thinking ahead, you’ll be setting yourself up for smooth travels. Here’s how you can plan your next getaway with ease and confidence.

Prioritize health and safety.

A relaxing vacation starts with making sure you’re healthy and protected while travelling. Before you book your dream destination, check for any travel advisories or potential risks. Doing this early will give you a clear sense of whether there are any specific health or safety concerns that need attention.

It’s also a good idea to schedule a medical and dental checkup prior to departure to address any health issues that might interfere with your trip. Confirm whether your destination requires specific vaccinations or health precautions and familiarize yourself with the local climate and culture to know what to expect upon arrival.

Additionally, take time to learn about the medical facilities available in your destination. Knowing where to go in case of an emergency — and understanding the level of accessibility — can help you feel more prepared.

Organize important documentation.

Proper documentation is crucial for international travel. For example, it’s important to confirm your passport and visa requirements well in advance. Some countries require that your passport be valid for six months after your travel dates, so double-check these details before making your final arrangements.

Print hard copies of essential documents like flight bookings, boarding passes and travel insurance details, as well as your passport and any required entry forms. In addition, compile a list of your medical conditions, prescriptions, and emergency contacts, which you can quickly reference if needed.

Finally, be sure to share your travel itinerary with a trusted friend or family member. Having someone at home aware of your plans adds another layer of security in case you need assistance.

Pack smart and light.

Packing can sometimes feel overwhelming but following a few simple steps will make it easier. Keep medications and first aid essentials in your carry-on bag to ensure you have quick access to what you need, even if your checked luggage is delayed or lost.

Aim to pack light and focus on efficiency. Bulky or difficult-to-handle luggage can slow you down and become a burden as you move through airports or cities. The lighter and more organized your bags, the more comfortable your journey will be.

Secure travel insurance ahead of time.

Travel insurance is essential for protecting yourself and your plans. The type of insurance you’ll need depends on your destination and activities, but the most important thing is to secure adequate medical coverage in case of an emergency.

For added peace of mind, consider trip cancellation or interruption coverage, which can protect your investment if unexpected events disrupt your plans. Having the right insurance in place can safeguard your vacation and ease the stress of the unknown.

For more information, speak to a CAA Travel Insurance Agent at 1-833-673-3030 or get a quote and purchase online at carp.ca/CAA-travel.

The bottom line.

Travelling should be a time of enjoyment, not stress. By taking proactive steps, you can focus on relaxing and making memories during your well-deserved break.

Consider affordable CAA Travel Insurance for your next trip.

Speak to a CAA Travel Insurance Agent at 1-833-673-3030 or get a quote and purchase online at carp.ca/CAA-travel

CAA Insurance is CARP’s recommended provider for Auto, Home, Travel, Life and Pet Insurance.¹

_{¹CAA Travel Insurance, an Orion Travel Insurance product, is underwritten by Echelon Insurance (except in British Columbia). BCAA Travel Insurance is sold through B.C.A.A. Holdings Ltd. dba BCAA Insurance Agency, a licensed insurance agent and is underwritten by BCAA Insurance Corporation. Insurance claims are administered by Echelon Insurance and its subcontractors, Xodus Travel Services Inc except in BC where insurance claims are administered by Global Excel Management Inc. and all policy terms, conditions, exclusions and limitations can be found in the policy wording at Wordings | BCAA . In Alberta, insurance is sold by AMA Insurance. Certain conditions, exclusions, limitations, restrictions and underwriting guidelines apply. A Medical Questionnaire is required if you are 60 years of age and older. Not all products are available in all provinces. Discounts may vary by province. Coverage description in this email are intended for general information only. In the event of a discrepancy between this email and your policy, the terms of your policy will prevail.}