A ONE TRAVEL STARTING TIPS

 Prepare For Your Trip

How much you plan for your vacation is a personal matter. Some people prefer to have a strict itinerary and budget, others prefer spontaneous holidays. No matter which type of traveller you are these tips will ensure that you are not caught in a bad situation.

Itinerary or Timetable

Prepare a rough itinerary specifying where you will be at certain points during your trip. Once completed give it to someone so he/she knows where you can be found in case of an emergency.

 Health and Medical Information

When travelling abroad it is advisable to notify your family doctor. He/she can provide you with the necessary information concerning any medical requirements. Be sure to bring necessities with you (i.e. bandages, insect repellent, etc.). These products can be difficult to find in some destinations and expensive in others. Prescription medication should be hand carried in its original bottle if possible. To ensure your trip is worry free, it is strongly recommended that you obtain travel insurance. Most company health plans provide only limited coverage out of province or country. Be sure to check the details prior to leaving Canada.

 Keeping Your Home Safe

Plan to have someone pick up your mail and look after your house. If possible, set timers for a set of lights to give the impression that people are in the house; this will deter thieves who suspect that the house is empty.

 Airline Arrangements

ALWAYS RECONFIRM YOUR FLIGHT TIMES 24 HOURS PRIOR TO YOUR DEPARTURE. THE TELEPHONE NUMBER OF THE AIRLINE WILL APPEAR ON YOUR DOCUMENTS.

 Check-In

Check-in procedures vary according to your destination and whether or not you are travelling on a chartered or a scheduled airline. The check-in counter for all chartered flights opens three hours prior to departure. For scheduled airlines, domestic travel check-in is one hour prior to departure, transborder travel check-in is 90 minutes prior to departure and international travel check-in is three hours prior to departure

  Luggage Allowance

Luggage allowance varies according to whether or not you are travelling on a chartered or scheduled airline. Chartered airlines allow two pieces of luggage not to exceed 44 pounds in total, and only one carry-on is accepted. Scheduled airlines allow two pieces of luggage not to exceed 70 pounds each and only one carry-on is accepted. Any additional or oversized luggage will be subject to a charge. Fees vary depending on the airline. To avoid any unexpected surprises at the airport it is best to check with your travel agent, or directly with the airline, prior to your departure.

 Staying Safe While Abroad

Since crime is on the rise throughout many countries, it is advisable that you take necessary precautions when travelling abroad. * Keep your valuables (money, passport, etc.) locked in the hotel safe. * Carry only small amounts of cash. * Try to use traveller's cheques whenever possible. * Avoid walking alone at night. * Try not to expose your valuables (jewelry, money, etc.). This is a sure target for thieves. * Never leave your personal items unattended (especially on the beach). * Use your common sense. As a visitor to another country you are not exempt from its laws. Proper respect for local customs and regulations must be followed where required. If you are not sure of something it is best to ask first. Remember you are the visitor and cannot expect to receive special treatment. Back to Tips Index