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 Alison Cross
Family vacations are an ideal way to relax together and make memories that last a lifetime. | PHOTO: KAMPUS/PEXELS
FROM CROSS-BORDER ROAD TRIPS to exotic beach destinations, travelling with kids takes planning to get the most out of it. Here’s how to plan a fun, stress-free trip full of memories — not mishaps.
THE CROSS-BORDER ROAD TRIP
For most Canadians, the United States border is a short trip by car. Whether it’s an afternoon of cross-border shopping or an adventurous road trip, plan each stop and book accommodations in advance.
Stock the car with snacks and load up on entertainment. Make sure you have everyone’s passports and check they’re not expired. The U.S. requires passports to be valid for the duration of your trip, but some countries require passports to be valid for an additional six months, so it’s best to check every time you travel.
Even if it’s just a brief trip, you’re still in a foreign country and need trip cancellation and interruption insurance, says Stacey Weeks, a CAA Travel Consultant based in St. Catharines, Ontario. Because the U.S. is so close, she says 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
It’s all about the amenities. With young kids, you may want access to shallow pools and babysitting services. With older kids, opt for a resort with adventure activities like surfing or snorkelling.
But if all that time in the water gives someone an ear infection, you’ll 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. A travel insurance policy can help with some of the costs associated with staying those few extra nights and rebooking flights.
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 are in your plans, find the best time to go. While no one can control the weather, there are certain times of the year when hurricanes or heat waves are less likely. Make sure there’s something for everyone at the amusement park. The same 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.” 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 medical needs on vacation. But are you insured if you cancel or postpone a trip before you go? What about if weather, politics or other non-medical emergencies cut your trip short? You need to check your insurance policy carefully and not assume everything is covered.
Cancellation and interruption insurance is often separate. Paying for flights, hotels excursions and tours may not be refundable, which is why it’s important to include cancellation and interruption insurance in your vacation plans.
Purchasing adequate insurance coverage should be part 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.