Many of us look forward to the end of the year for a long earned break from the daily 9 – 5 grind and a chance to relax and spend time with our friends and family. For many people, it’s also the time of year where they start heading off on a trip either to spend the holidays with their loved ones or just enjoy some relaxation. Unfortunately, with so many people on the roads and heading on adventures, there is also a greater chance that something may go wrong while you’re away. Below are some tips to help you plan that will make sure your break stays as relaxing as it should be.
1. Get Travel Insurance
People often get complacent when it comes to travel to visit friends or family. Even if you are an expat returning to your homeland for Christmas or going to stay with family living abroad, travel insurance is still essential. Not only does it protect your booking and ensure you won’t be out of pocket if there are any issues with your airline or hotel, but it also safeguards you in the event of an accident, illness or emergency. It can still cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to get you home or receive medical treatment in a foreign country. If you have had an emergency or disruption while travelling and need help making a claim, talk to a legal firm, like Turner Freeman Lawyers ( click here for contact details) and get professional assistance.
3. Have Reserve Funds
While travel insurance will usually reimburse you for out of pocket expenses associated with delays or disruptions to your trip, often you have to cover the initial cost and claim it back later. Make sure you have access to some backup money or a line of credit to cover any unforseen charges over and above your budgeted trip and spending money costs.
2. Double Check All Bookings
It is a busy time to be travelling so make sure you’ve dotted absolutely all the I’s and crossed every T on your itinerary to avoid disappointment. Confirm reservations with your airline, hotel and transfer companies and any tours or experiences you’ve booked in advance and as the departure dates get closer.
4. Book Early
Try to pre book everything that you want to do, from transfers to and from the hotel to trying that restaurant that gets rave reviews. During peak times things can book out quickly so make sure you’ve planned out what you want to do in advance to avoid disappointment. Prices also may increase as the dates get closer, so the earlier you can get things like your airfares and accommodation locked in, the better. Travelling should be a fun and relaxing experience, so make sure you spend that little bit of extra time before you go making sure you’re covered for unexpected incidents or expenses and have planned out your holiday. What advice would you give to someone planning to travel abroad for Christmas?