You don’t want to think about all the things that might go wrong on your vacation, but it’s better to plan and prepare so you can avoid a problem than to panic and try to figure out what to do when you’re far from home. Here are ways to avoid some of the most common mishaps that travelers encounter.

Research Your Destination Before You Leave Home

Doing some research before you set out on your trip can help you avoid all sorts of problems. Learn how the local transportation system works, which areas are and are not considered safe, whether you can drink tap water, and where the nearest embassy or consulate is located. If you’re aware of potential problems before you arrive at your destination, you’ll be able to conduct additional research and find solutions, or at least have a backup plan in case things don’t work out as planned.

Make sure that you know how to get help in an emergency. 911 is the number to call in the United States, but you might need to know one or more different emergency numbers if you’re going to another country.

Pack Strategically

You don’t want to pay an extra fee because your luggage exceeds your airline’s weight limit or haul a large backpack or heavy suitcases around while you’re sightseeing. Choose versatile clothing and shoes so you don’t have to pack a large number of items.

Prepare for a variety of weather conditions. Pack different types of clothing so you can dress in layers. Think about the types of activities that you’re planning to do and make sure that you have appropriate footwear.

Bring the Essentials

If you reach your destination and realize that you forgot to pack your toothbrush, that will be a minor inconvenience. Realizing that you forgot your glasses or your child’s medication will be a different story. 

This is why it’s so important to think ahead when it comes to packing. When you start to compile a list, you’ll inevitably forget things. If you begin working on your list several days or weeks before you pack, you’ll have plenty of time to remember additional items and jot them down.

Review Your Insurance Coverage Before You Go on Vacation

If something goes wrong during your trip, you might need to file an insurance claim. Your homeowner’s insurance can cover an item that gets lost or stolen while you’re on vacation, and your auto insurance can provide coverage if you get into an accident while driving your own car or a rental. 

Petruzelo Insurance can help you review your existing coverage and identify any areas where you’re uninsured or underinsured. We can also help you compare premiums from several insurers to find the best rates available. Contact us today to get started.