Simpson Group Travel Tips

Planning a trip?

Traveling can be a delightful and enriching experience, but it requires careful planning and preparation.

This guide offers a range of essential tips to help you navigate your journey with ease. From ensuring you have the right documentation and understanding visa regulations to managing your finances and packing smartly, these tips will help you avoid common travel pitfalls. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first adventure, these insights will equip you to handle any situation, ensuring a stress-free and memorable trip.

Documentation
Pre-Travel Preparations
Finances
Communication and Connectivity
Packing and Luggage
Health and Safety
Travel Logistics

Documentation

Essential Documentation

Multiple Copies: Have copies of important documents like medical history, travel itinerary, and ID.
Travel Insurance: Keep your policy information and medical conditions accessible.

Passports

Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months.
Air Travel in Canada: Requires two pieces of government-issued ID, one with a photo.
International Visas: Bring extra passport photos for applications.

Visa Regulations

Research: Check visa requirements for your destination.
Supporting Documents: Ensure you have all necessary documents.
Application Timing: Apply well in advance.

Name Changes

Document Accuracy: Verify all documents for name accuracy.
Airline Tickets: Ensure names match your ID.
Loyalty Programs: Update name changes.

Travelling with Minors

Consent Letter: Prepare a consent letter if minors travel without guardians.
Documentation: Include itinerary, contact details, and guardian ID copies.

Pre-Travel Preparations

Request Time Off

Timely Requests: Seek approval for vacation time early.
Notifications: Inform schools, neighbors, and emergency contacts.

Housekeeping

Emergency Contacts: List contacts for those looking after your home.
Instructions: Write instructions for home maintenance tasks.
Timers: Set timers for lights, sprinklers, and temperatures.

Finances

Notify Banks

Travel Notifications: Inform your bank of upcoming trips to avoid account issues.
Credit Limits: Review and possibly increase credit card limits.

Prepay Bills

Advance Payments: Prepay bills or set up automatic withdrawals.
Adjustments: Adjust withdrawal and charge dates to manage payments.

Money Exchange Services

Pre-Departure Exchange: Get better rates by exchanging money before leaving.
Service Providers: Use banks and service clubs for better rates.

Communication and Connectivity

Phone Roaming

Roaming Packages: Decide on purchasing international packages.
Alternative Solutions: Consider (v)SIM cards or calling cards.
Airplane Mode: Use airplane mode to avoid charges and maximize free Wi-Fi to communicate with others via apps (i.e. Facebook Messenger, iMessage, WhatsApp).

Packing and Luggage

Packing Essentials

Valuables: Pack extra contacts or glasses.
Reusable Bags: Useful for various purposes.
Space Saving: Use carabiners to attach items outside your backpack.
Power Bank: Essential for electronic devices.
Sleep Aids: Bring an eye mask, earplugs, and noise-cancelling headphones.

Board Games

Entertainment: Pack compact games like cribbage, Battleship, Qwirkle, and Monopoly Deal.
Cards: Bring a pack of cards to make new friends.

Technology & Media Storage

Data Backup: Upload and clear media storage space.
Extra Storage: Consider an external hard drive or extra SD cards.
Offline Content: Download podcasts, music, and videos.

Pack Light

Weather Forecast: Plan your wardrobe accordingly.
Baggage Dimensions: Review carry-on and personal item allowances.
Moisture-Wicking Clothing: Pack versatile, lightweight clothing.

Luggage Tags

Labels: Place labels on both the exterior and interior of your luggage.
Trackers: Consider using a tracker like Apple Air Tag.
Documentation: Take photos or list possessions for insurance claims.

Carry-On Luggage

Valuables: Keep important items like medications and wallets on you.
Emergency Cash: Carry cash for emergencies.

Health and Safety

Medication

Travel Advisories: Check for any travel-specific medical recommendations.
Vaccinations: Update required vaccinations before travel.
Health Changes: Be aware of medication changes affecting insurance stability.

Travel Insurance

Policy Understanding: Know your coverage details.
Pre-Existing Conditions: Consider coverage for unstable conditions.

Extensions for Travel Insurance

Validity Check: Ensure your insurance is valid and consider top-up policies.
Automatic Extensions: Check if extensions apply for travel delays.

Exclusions for Travel Insurance

Common Exclusions: Active cancer treatment, late pregnancy, and ongoing medical investigations.
Special Riders: Consider unstable pre-existing condition riders.

Travel Logistics

Trip Points

Points Trips: Check if your points provider offers insurance.
Airline Policies: Know cancellation and refund terms.

Airports

Terminal Familiarity: Know your terminal and gate.
Travel Perks: Utilize loyalty program benefits.

Time Zones

Border Crossings: Be aware of time zone changes.
Device Updates: Adjust watches and update smartphones.

Check-In & Out Times

Accommodation Hours: Know check-in and out times.
Luggage Storage: Most hotels allow luggage storage.

Rental Cars & Public Transportation

Service Hours: Check transportation service hours.
Reservations: Reserve rental cars in advance for savings.
Driver’s Licence: Ensure you have the necessary licence and insurance.

With thoughtful preparation and these essential travel tips, you can enjoy a smooth and stress-free journey. Safe travels and best health from all of us at Simpson Group!