5 Safety Tips for Family Vacations
Vacationing with your family when you have a break from school is a lot more fun when you don’t have to worry and can avoid mishaps. Achieving this success begins with preparation. Here are a few simple tips that could make safety a little easier for your next adventure, presented by White Rock Sea Tours and Whale Watch Vancouver.
- Link Up Your Technology
Working mobile phones are a great way to stay in touch. Your phone is also a convenient way to double-check reservations, map your route and find your way if you happen to get lost. Equip your children with a smartwatch that features GPS and a way to store medical ID and information.
There are many types of helpful tech to consider:
- A backpack for charging phones, laptops, and tablets
- Extra ports for charging devices at your lodging
- Cameras for hands-free pictures
- Noise-canceling headphones
- Additional storage for photos
- Mobile hotspots
Even if you tend to avoid gadgets, certain technology will improve your safety and reduce upsets. Some apps are great for enhancing vacations when you stay at home, such as games for geocaching, nature identification, tying knots and gazing at the stars.
- Check Travel and Health Updates
The pandemic has emphasized the importance of checking conditions before traveling. Whether you’re traveling to another state or other countries, it’s important to check websites local to your destination. You’ll learn valuable laws, such as those regarding wearing masks. Look up government-issued warnings through your own country’s website and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Travelers’ Health site.
- Safely Enjoy the Outdoors
Vacations don’t always mean travel, and getting outside during your time off can offer many of the same benefits as a couple of days away. Whether you head to a national park, take a nature hike, go birding or opt for whale watching, use the following tips to enjoy nature safely:
- Look up hikes or nature trails in unfamiliar areas before you head out.
- Carry the essentials with you. According to outdoor experts, these include a map or compass (don’t rely on getting a signal for your smartphone), sun protection, a jacket or extra layer of clothing, a flashlight, a first aid kit, a snack such as granola or trail mix and water. If you plan to hike in a public place, carry a mask and hand sanitizer.
- Choose a tour group to safely enjoy whale watching tours rather than traveling solo. Particularly if you have children in tow.
- Use Public Transportation
Visit the city near your home using public transportation for an inexpensive day trip. A walking tour of museums, zoos, parks and local sites offers the chance to get to know your own community. Prepare your children to travel safely by pairing up as buddies, making a plan in case you get separated, staying aware without earbuds and cell phone distractions and identifying potential obstacles.
- Write Down Emergency Contacts and Info
You and each of your children should carry phone numbers, addresses, allergies, and health information. This way, if you get separated, police or medical professionals can contact you and provide appropriate care. If you are traveling outside of the country, you may also want to have copies of passports, visas, and other essential information.
Family vacations during school holidays are great experiences for strengthening relationships. With a focus on safety, you can venture into your own neighborhood and around the world with confidence.