Travel broadens your horizons and opens you up to a whole new world of experiences and adventures. Have you decided to embark on a round the world trip? Or are you taking time out for an extended vacation? If so, here are some failsafe tips to help you plan the trip of a lifetime.
Do your research
Spontaneous travel may sound like the stuff of dreams. But in reality, a little planning is always a good idea, especially when it comes to longer breaks. Before you even think about booking flights or hotels, consider your options. Where do you want to go? How long will you be away for? Are there particular sights or activities on your to-do list?
If you’re planning to hop from one destination to another, it’s beneficial to research round the world tickets. It’s often much better value to buy a multi-stop ticket than several single flights. You can choose from well-trodden tourist paths or more far-flung destinations
Get your papers and insurance in order
Once you have a basic itinerary in mind, get your paperwork sorted. Find out if you need to apply for a visa for any of the countries you are visiting. Check your passport expiry date. Bear in mind that you will need a minimum time left on your passport if you’re flying long-haul. If you’re not sure what you need, search online. You may be able to travel to some countries without a visa.
Sometimes, you can fill in a form on the plane before you land. In other cases, you’ll need to apply for a visa before you travel. The process is relatively simple and often, you can complete forms on the Internet. You can apply for Canadian visas for UK citizens online, for example.
When you have your visa, and you’ve checked that your passport is in date, take out travel insurance. Compare prices and policies online. If you’re going away for an extended period of time, you may be best taking out annual cover. If you plan to do water sports or extreme activities, choose a plan, which offers additional cover.
Packing tips
If you’re traveling around the world, the key is to focus on the essentials. Don’t fill your bag full of clothes and nothing else. Think about what you’ll need in each destination and what you can buy as you go. It may be best to take a backpack, rather than a suitcase.
Don’t forget to take a basic first aid kit and any medical supplies you need, such as prescription medication. Fold clothing to maximize space.
Immunizations and health checks
You may need immunizations before you go away, so make sure you check well in advance. If you need a course of injections, this can take months. It’s also a good idea to book a dental examination before you go.
Planning a foreign adventure is exciting, but there are lots of things to remember. Take these failsafe tips on board to eliminate stress and ensure your trip is memorable for all the right reasons.
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