It is important to have a travel plan especially if you and your family will go for a holiday abroad. Before leaving for your trip make sure you and the family members are already aware of the basic facts, resources and information on the place of your destination such as Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, Customs Restrictions like bringing medications and what you cannot bring back with you. An itinerary is best to be at hand always, or go for a package tour for best deals and fewer worries.

It is also a necessity to find out what types of vaccinations needed to enter a particular country, medications you’ll need to take before, during and even after your trip. It is recommended to have the vaccinations early in case there will be an unexpected reaction and need some recovery time. Check your medical insurance regarding overseas coverage especially if you bring children with you.

Carry few clothes as much as possible. Organize your clothing around one or two basic colors for easier matching with shoes and accessories you will wear. A friend taught me that it is practical to take along older clothes that can be discarded along the way. In this way you will find more room in your luggage for bringing souvenirs home.

As much as possible do not carry your passport around, leave it in the safe in your hotel. If local law states that you need to bring it with you, a photocopy will suffice. It is also important to leave copies of itinerary, cell phone numbers, passport data page and visas to your trusted friends or family for easier contact in cases of emergency.

Know the local laws and abide by them. As a general rule, never talk nor transact to strangers. Always keep your money, wallet and other valuables safely secured. Know the local rules in money exchange too.

If you are a smoker, it is a must that you know where are the vaping places nearest to you as well as to where vape shops are located in case you will need to buy your vape juice.

Remember that drinking water from another country may cause you and your family members diarrhea, to prevent it and to keep safe, opt in drinking bottled water.

Avail transportation services like taxis with official markings.

Most tourist destination countries are safe to travel, but it is advisable to take precautionary measures just to make sure you and your loved ones will be able to enjoy a great holiday.