TRAVEL
On the Go, Kids in Tow
If you’re planning a family vacation, here’s what you need to know before you go.
By Allison Cross
Family vacations are an ideal way to enjoy some time off together while making memories that will last a lifetime. | PHOTO: BULAT/PEXELS
ROAD TRIP ACROSS THE BORDER? Kid-friendly all-inclusive beach resort? Theme-park adventure? No matter which vacation you and your family prefer, here’s how to plan a fun, stress-free getaway full of memories — not mishaps. THE CROSS-BORDER ROAD TRIP
For most Canadians, the U.S. border is a short trip by car. Your family might be planning a quick cross-border shopping trip or perhaps a longer drive to explore some of the U.S.A.’s national parks. Whatever the plan, plot out each stop and book your hotel or rental accommodations in advance. And print out your reservations in case you lose cell service or battery power on the road.
Stock the car with your family’s favourite snacks and load up on entertainment — shows, podcasts, colouring books and games — to keep spirits up. Make sure you have everyone’s passports and check that none of them have expired. The U.S, requires all passports to be valid for the duration of your trip, but some countries require passports to be valid for an additional six months, so research your destination’s requirements every time you travel.
Even if you’re taking your teenagers on just a one-night outlet-mall shopping trip, remember that you’re still in a foreign country and need to purchase trip cancellation and interruption insurance, says Stacey Weeks, a CAA Travel Advisor. Because the U.S. is so close, she points out that it’s easy to forget that if someone in your family gets sick or delayed coming home, you still need insurance to cover unexpected expenses.
Family road trips are more fun with some activities to keep everyone occupied. Load up on the snacks, games and podcasts to make the time fly by. | PHOTO: RICH MARTELLO/UNSPLASH
THE ALL-INCLUSIVE BEACH VACATION
Research what each resort offers and how the amenities will meet the needs of your family. With kids in tow, you might want access to shallow wading pools, play areas and babysitting services. You might also want to consider a resort with suites, so you can put your kids to sleep in a bedroom and enjoy the evening in a separate room. And if you’ve got older kids, you’ll probably want a resort that offers adventure activities like surfing, sailing or snorkelling.
But then, say, all that time in the water leads to an ear infection for one of your kids, you’ll also need to plan how to manage a few extra days at your destination, Weeks says. Even if a local doctor quickly prescribes medication, flying with an ear infection may not be recommended because of air pressure on the plane, she says. A travel insurance policy can help with some of the costs associated with staying those few extra nights at the hotel and rebooking flights for the whole family.
A tropical all-inclusive getaway is a great option for a family trip. Amenities such as kids clubs and baby pools are ideal for families with little ones, while teens may prefer adventure activities and water sports. | PHOTO: PIXABAY/PEXELS
THE THEME-PARK ADVENTURE
If rollercoasters and rides are in your plans, take the time to find out the best time to go. While no one can control the weather, there will be times of the year when hurricanes or heat waves are less likely to occur.
If you’re flying to your destination, pack in your carry-on a day’s worth of destination-geared clothes for yourself and your children in case your bags are delayed. No Canadian wants to stand in line in California heat wearing heavy jeans and a long-sleeve shirt.
Make sure there’s something for everyone at the amusement park you choose. Your youngest children, for instance, might not be tall enough to ride the bigger attractions. The same consideration applies to any travel insurance included on your credit card. There needs to be coverage for everyone, which isn’t always the case.
“[The policy] might only cover [the cardholder] but not the rest of the family,” says Weeks, who recommends calling your credit card company to find out exactly what – and who — is covered. “You have to make sure that what you’re thinking you’ve got coverage for is actually going to apply for whatever vacation you’re taking.”
Purchasing adequate insurance coverage should be part and parcel of planning a family vacation. No matter where you go, how you’ll be travelling and how long you’ll be away, researching the ins and outs of travel insurance ensures peace of mind, so you can focus on building travel memories to last a lifetime. CAA
A theme park is a great destination for a family vacation, offering excitement and activities for thrill-seekers of all ages. | PHOTO: DUSKO/ADOBE STOCK
Trip, Interrupted
You have travel insurance for mishaps and medical needs while on vacation. But are you insured if you need to cancel or postpone a trip before you go? What about if weather, politics or other non-medical emergencies cut your trip short? The answer is a resounding maybe, but not definitely. You need to check your insurance policy carefully and not assume everything is covered.
Trip cancellation and interruption insurance is often separate. Purchasing flights, hotels excursions and tours may not be refundable, which is why it’s important to include trip cancellation and interruption insurance in your vacation plans.