There’s so much to do when you’re preparing for your honeymoon: researching destinations, setting your budget, booking travel and lodging, crafting an itinerary, and obtaining or renewing your passport. Whether you’ve never planned a vacation away from home or you’re an experienced traveler, there may be some vital steps you’re overlooking. Keep in mind a few essential tips as you count down the days before you and your spouse leave for your fabulous getaway.
Minding Your Medications and Medical Equipment
The Transportation Security Administration explains that medical items will undergo security screening and recommends that medication be clearly labeled, while New York Times writer Tanya Mohn strongly suggests keeping prescription drugs in their original containers. Meanwhile, it’s also a good idea to obtain documentation from your physician on official letterhead listing what substances and equipment you’ve been prescribed and the reasons you need them. Travelers outside the United States will be subject to each country’s medication restrictions and may be required to have their medical documentation translated. Check with the United States Embassy in your destination country for its rules and regulations.
Can You Drink the Water?
“Water, water, everywhere, but not a drop to drink.” That’s an oft-misquoted version of a line written by English poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge, but it can accurately describe one key problem you may run into while traveling overseas. Travel Channel writer Jason Horn explains that water quality issues aren’t the only reasons travelers get sick, since illness can also occur due to poorly prepared meals. Even so, he suggests checking the CDC’s website for country-specific recommendations regarding food and drinking water.
What about filtered water bottles? It all depends on the types of filters they use. Travel blogger Cara Crawford discusses them and adds that reverse osmosis filters screen out particles, viruses, and most bacteria. When in doubt, Crawford says, look for models that specifically mention that they remove 99.9 percent of harmful bacteria.
What About Identity Theft?
Physical safety while traveling is important, but you shouldn’t overlook potential identity theft risks. In a July 2017 CNBC article, writer Abigail Summerville discloses that 33 percent of fraud victims were targeted while traveling. Follow some vital security tips to ensure you don’t get ripped off:
- Never use public wi-fi networks. A portable router may be a better alternative, allowing you to set up your own hotspot.
- Protect all devices, including smartphones, with strong passwords.
- Enable location tracking on your devices and install wiping software that destroys your data if they’re lost or stolen.
- Do not discuss your location and itinerary on social media.
- Bring only your passport and a couple of credit cards.
- Keep a written record of your wallet or purse contents.
- Keep an eye on your credit card statements and credit reports.
A Few Words About Health Insurance
If you have health insurance obtained through an employer or purchased independently through the Health Insurance Marketplace, you should confirm whether your coverage is active when traveling outside the United States. Forbes contributor Julie Loffredi points out that some plans offer limited or no benefits or they may require you to pay out of pocket and await reimbursement if you become sick or injured abroad. The State Department also adds that Medicare or Medicaid plans usually don’t pay for medical expenses incurred outside the country. Check with your provider for your plan specifics and consider purchasing travel insurance or a supplemental policy with emergency medical coverage.
Many people can take for granted everyday essentials such as medications, drinking water, health insurance coverage, and safety. However, these everyday conveniences and necessities become critically important when traveling. Staying healthy and safe during your honeymoon requires a little advanced preparation, but you’ll be glad for your extra efforts as you and your spouse enjoy your journey.
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