Now that March break is approaching many families will be traveling outside the country. The following are some safety guidelines that will ease your mind during your trip.

Travel Documents

  • Check the passport requirements for the country you are visiting.
  • Make two copies of everyone’s passport (main information page). Leave one with a friend or a family member at home and bring the other copy with you.
  • Keep credit cards, money and other travel documents in separate places. This minimizes the chances of losing them all together.
  • Give a copy of your itinerary to some family members and friends.

Before Leaving Home

  • Ask a family member or friend to regularly pick up flyers and mail when away.
  • Create a travel checklist. This will speed up the process of packing and making sure that the whole family packed what they need for the trip.
  • Pack only what’s necessary and carry the minimum number of valuables.
  • If you wear glasses, pack an extra pair. Bring them and any medicines you need in your carry-on luggage.
  • Use covered luggage tags to avoid casual observation of your identity. If possible lock your luggage.
  • Confirm hotel and flight reservations. Make sure that you know the cancellation policy and any applicable charges.
  • Check if your airline offers an online check-in, this will save you some time when you get to the airport.
  • Remind children about your safety procedures when dealing with strangers.

At The Airport

  • Give yourself plenty of time to get to your airport, check in and go through security.
  • Be familiar with the rules and safety regulations.
  • If you are parking at the airport, make sure to write down the location of your parking spot and any landmark to help you remember this place.
  • When traveling with kids, always ensure that one parent is in charge of keeping an eye on children.

While Vacationing

  • Take time to know the hotel layout and know where to go in case of fire.
  • Eat only foods that have been thoroughly cooked.
  • Make sure fruits and vegetables have been freshly peeled or cooked before you eat them.
  • Drink bottled beverages, especially water.
  • Dress children in bright clothes to make them readily visible. Have a meeting place in case they get separated from the group.
  • Remind everyone in the group to wash their hands thoroughly at all times.

Sources:

http://www.thebramptonnews.com/articles/3196/1/Seasonal-Safety-Tips—March-Break-Travel/Page1.html

http://www.hotelfun4kids.com/travelsafetytips/general.htm

http://www.rbcinsurance.com/travel/travel-tips.html

http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html