Preparation
11. Preparation and checking of all travel document requirements for
various areas and countries as well as special documentation
requirements, entry fees, duties and taxes,
need to be considered, planned and budgeted
for.
Contacting embassies, consulates and getting information on visas and
any and all other applicable fees are crucial to minimize
the impact on your pocketbook.
12. In a time when technology is so much a part of our lives, we
barely give it a second thought. It is however very wise
to have handy proof of purchase or receipts for any
high-tech equipment you might be transporting.
Shortlist your inventory of cameras, radios,
camcorders, laptop computers, etc., you are taking with
and keep them all in a file.
This could be your redeeming feature when clearing
customs and them wanting to charge you duty on these. It
is useful to have to ensure minimum delay and no
additional cost. Do this even if the items were purchased
before traveling.
Spending the time on this now way in advance of your
planned trip, will ensure smooth sailing and saved dollar
down the road. It is definitely worth the effort.
Holding on to receipts for newly purchased items, also
assists you upon your return to consolidate spending and
assess cost, as you wrap up your vacation expenditures,
budget and plan for the next trip!
13. Having the ability of mobility when you are
traveling away from home is very important.
Driving yourself around gives you more options to
customize and optimize your sightseeing and trip to your
liking and individual preference. An enabler of this is
your driver license. For most of us, our current license
to operate a vehicle should be valid in most of Europe and
around the world, for a limited time.
HOWEVER, never assume! Always check the details
as some countries will still require an international
license or permit. Check with your local Department of
Motor Vehicles for additional information.
14. Remember to budget some additional funds for taking
care of those dear ones who cannot do so for themselves. We
are referring to our animal friends and pets.
Special arrangements for pets should be made prior to
any trip and well in advance. This applies, whether pets
are being cared for at home by a neighbor or friend,
placed in a kennel (taking a mini-vacation of their own!),
or accompanying you on your trip.
Save
money by checking your options at your
destination. Some rental vacation homes, apartments,
hotels and resorts are pet-friendly and encourage owners
to bring them along. Avoid unnecessary costs of
boarding.
Make it a rule of thumb however, to verify any details
pertaining to animals, prior to departure. Be smart
and get all vet visits, guidelines, travel documents and
other paperwork that applies, done way in advance.
If you do not have any pets, looking after your domicile
and belongings should be left to a trusted and responsible
party you trust and value.
