There has been a surge in the number of people vacationing abroad. Visiting a new country and experiencing the culture can be a great experience. You also have to take some precautions to make your trip stress free and memorable.

1. Travel advisories are sometime issued by the State Department if there is a risk involved in traveling to a certain part of the world. Outbreak of infectious disease or political instability can result in travel restriction. Check for recent updates to make sure your destination is safe.

2. Review your current health insurance to see if you have coverage abroad. In most cases you may have to purchase health insurance for your trip. Travel insurance plans offer health insurance alone or along with other benefits like trip cancellation, trip delay, evacuation. Purchase a plan that has the benefits you need.

3. Trip cancellation plans reimburse your trip costs if you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason. Some plans also provide medical insurance benefits. The plans usually have restrictions on coverage for pre existing condition and may require you to buy the plan within a specified number of days of making a deposit on the trip.

4. Always pack some extra doses of your prescription medication. Keep a file with you that contains information about your medical treatments, allergies, blood type, and phone number for your physician. Phone numbers of an emergency contact can also be included in the information.

5. Read travel guides and maps to come up with an itinerary that covers your interests. Figure out how you wish to go from place to place (it may decide how you must pack). Do not underestimate the travel time.

6. Try not to include too many activities in one day. Try to relax on the day you reach your destination. If you travel across several time zones be prepared for jetlag.

7. Carry enough local currency and only the credit cards that you plan on using. Make sure you notify your credit card company that you are traveling abroad. Some credit card companies will reject transactions made overseas unless you notify them of your plans. Use your credit card in reputable places; there have been several instances of credit card fraud involving tourists. Carry their phone number in case you have to report your credit card lost or stolen.

8. Learning some basic sentences in the local language can help. Make sure you are aware of the local customs and practices so you do not insult anyone inadvertently. A translation guide may be a useful investment.

9. Your passport is a very valuable document, keep it safe. You can consult your consulate in an emergency, carry their contact numbers. You can use the insurance provider’s emergency assist numbers if you need assistance. They can also direct you to local physicians or hospitals. Make sure you call them to verify benefits before you use the services.

10. Exercise good judgment while eating outside. Do not assume that the tap water is safe to drink. Try to avoid uncooked food like salads, juice to avoid falling sick.

Get ready to enjoy your holiday abroad!