Are you thinking about traveling abroad with your family for your next vacation? Will this be the first time you have all traveled abroad? If you answered yes to both those questions, you may want to start thinking about some of the mistakes people make while traveling internationally. And then do what you can to avoid making those mistakes during your family vacation. Today, I am going to help you out by sharing some of the mistakes to avoid while traveling abroad during your next family vacation.  

Mistakes to Avoid While Traveling Abroad 

Forgetting to Pack a Travel Power Adapter 

It’s hard enough to remember the charging cords and everything else you need to power up your devices while traveling. However, when you are traveling abroad, you also must remember to pack a travel power adapter. 

Most countries have their own power outlet types. You will need to check to see which types of outlets will be available in the destination you are visiting. Once you know which outlets you will be using, you will be able to purchase the proper power adapter.  

Forgetting the Power Converter 

As important as a power adapter is for traveling abroad, a power converter can be even more necessary. Many countries have higher voltage in their power outlets. If you forget to pack a power converter, you can blow up your devices the first time you plug them in.  

Don’t make this expensive mistake when abroad on a family vacation. It’s a headache you won’t want to deal with.  

Letting Your Passport Go MIA 

One of the worst things you can do during your family vacation abroad is letting your passport go MIA. This is your identification while traveling and you will need it in many scenarios. Especially for flying back home.  

I recommend having a specific spot for storing your passport, so you know where it is at all times.  

Packing the Wrong Shoes 

High heels or other dressy shoes may allow you to look nice while on vacation. However, they won’t allow your feet to feel comfortable with all the walking you will be doing. I recommend packing comfortable shoes that you have worn before. Those shoes will be broken in and won’t give you difficulties when you are spending hours on your feet.  

Forgetting About Your Safety 

You may be traveling to a safe destination with your family, but that doesn’t mean crime doesn’t exist there. It is important to use the same common sense you do at home to ensure your family is safe everywhere you go.  

This includes memorizing the numbers of emergency services in case you need to contact them.  

Not Being Prepared with the Proper Currency 

Taking cash on your family vacation may seem like a smart thing to do to cover those smaller expenses. However, your US dollars will not do you any good in certain countries. Any cash you take should be exchanged for the proper currency when you arrive. You can usually find a currency exchange counter at airports. Or you can visit a local bank. 

Consider the best ways to carry money abroad when you choose to carry cash in any currency. This way you won’t be out any money during your amazing family vacation. 

Not Checking on an International Phone Plan 

Smartphones are wonderful for staying connected with others. However, when you are traveling abroad, you must make sure you have the proper international phone plan with your cell phone carrier. Most of the major cell phone carriers offer international phone plans that you can do monthly, or all year if you travel a lot.  

These are the most common mistakes to avoid while traveling abroad for a family vacation. If you happen to make one of these mistakes, or a different one, don’t let it ruin your family trip. Simply find a solution and keep on making those memories with your family.  

So, are you ready to have me personalize a family vacation itinerary in an international destination for your next family trip?  

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session with me. When you click on the link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.  

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