We’ve all been there before.
We plan out a great trip only for a mishap or emergency to happen.
But what can we do ahead of time to help minimize the unexpected?
I’ve gathered information on some of the best tips for preparing and dealing with emergencies on your next trip.
Let’s get started!
1) Injuries or illness
Imagine this, you’re enjoying a tour of Paris, and all of a sudden you start to have sharp stomach pains. What do you do?
If you were back at home, you would visit the doctor or if it was serious enough you go to the hospital. But you’re thousands of miles from home right now, so what do you do?
Let’s rewind a bit. You’re now back at home getting ready for your Europe trip. The first thing you should do is contact your insurance company to see what kind of international coverage you have. if you don’t have any international coverage, check to see if you can take out a travel insurance policy.
Travel insurance can help reimburse you for unexpected expenses such as a hospital trip or doctor while abroad. Some policies will also help with missed flights and other travel expenses.
Before you leave on your trip, find the contact information for local medical services near your destination. That way when an emergency occurs, you have the information readily available.
2) Lost ID or Passport
Have you ever been on a trip where your wallet or purse has gone missing? Not only can you lose the money and cards (which can be solved fast many payday loan options available), but most importantly you could lose the documents that allow you to travel abroad.
Here’s what you can do to help minimize the impact of losing your passport:
Make copies of your passport before you get on your next flight. That way if you lose your passport, you’ll have the information you need to get help at the embassy.
Keep the copy in a safe place like your carry-on. If you bring your smartphone or another electronic device with you, you can also keep a digital copy with you as well.
I know what you’re thinking, what do you do if you’re already in this situation? If you’re overseas, you will want to contact the nearest embassy or consulate. In general, the embassy will be located in the capital city.
Once you visit the embassy, they will provide you with the forms you need to obtain a replacement passport to get you on your way.
3) Travel plans
Don’t you hate it when you have to change your travel plans at the last minute?
Let me take a wild guess. You’ve done like many of us have and struggle to find some alternative. Or maybe you’re the type of person that likes to plan as you go.
What if you could take the stress out of your next trip? Let’s start by laying out a plan. We all buy our plane tickets, book hotels, tours, etc, but have you ever written out your travel plans?
Whether you’re visiting the country for the first time or you’re a veteran traveler, these tips could help you on your next trip.
Get the address and contact information for places such as the nearest embassy at your destination, your hotel, flight numbers, and any other tickets that you have.
Share this information with one of your family members or friends that aren’t going on the trip with you. Not only can they stay updated on where you are, but they can also provide you with this information if you lose it yourself.
4) Late flights
Have you ever woken up late for your flight?
Even if you wake up on time, you could end up in traffic have a flat tire or any other emergency that has your flight leaving without you.
Many of us have been there where a connecting flight arrives late, but what do you do?
Missing your trip to Florida can put a delay on seeing the different amusement parks and beaches available.
The best thing to do is visit the airline’s customer service desk if you’re at the airport, or call them if you’re still at home. In most cases, the airline will try to work with you to get you on the next available flight.
The worst thing to do is do nothing. if you wait too long, you could you lose your airfare entirely.
Some airlines will allow you to fly standby on the next available flight While others will allow you to pay the difference to reschedule.
5) Canceled Flights
You got through security, your bags have been checked in, and you look up at the departures board for your flight.
“Cancelled flight” – these two words can throw off your entire trip, especially when you are supposed to pick up a car reservation, check into the hotel, and have your whole itinerary planned out for the week.
Having travelers insurance can help you with these unexpected expenses from having to reschedule due to a canceled flight.
I know what you’re thinking, what if you don’t have travelers Insurance? The first thing you should do is visit the airline’s customer service area.
If the cancellation was due to a mechanical failure or something similar, the airline will usually provide you with a hotel and food vouchers so that you can catch the next flight to your destination,
Conclusion
I hope with this information you’re able to handle these travel emergencies a little easier.
If you’ve enjoyed this article or you have any other tips to share with others sign for you to comment below and also share this article with those that may find the information helpful.
