Check your Passport!
It’s always so exciting to travel that even the planning phase gets us all giddied up, Pinteresting our favorite things to do, what to pack and other important travel plans, but in this excitement some of us can forget something so simple-yet imperative-to our traveling plans: OUR PASSPORT!
How we wished we lived in a no-borders, open-for-all world where we could just get on the plane and arrive, ready to take it all in. But since that is not the case, be sure to check out these important factors on your passport while you’re pinning about that exciting excursion and dreaming about coconut cocktails.
1.- Is my passport valid?
Remember that some destinations require you to have an expiration date open for up to 6 months. Even if the expiration date on your passport says you’re good to go, make sure you check your destination’s visa and entry requirements.
2.- Does my passport match my travel documents/plane tickets?
Be sure to be ridiculously meticulous about checking all those dotted I’s and crossed T’s because we’re sure your airline and that friendly immigration officer will be. Nothing ruins a vacation faster than not being able to board the plane because a middle name wasn’t spelled out.
3.- Is my passport in perfect conditions?
Make sure you’ve kept your passport in a secure place, preferably out of the reach of your child’s crayons or away from anywhere where it can get wet, ripped or creased. This presentation card is your entry into your destination. And it applies when in vacation too. Don’t jump into the pool with your passport in the back pocket of your shorts or leave it unattended by the beach.
4.- Is my child’s passport valid?
Remember a child’s passport expires before adults’ so even though you may have gotten them at the same time, the child’s passport will expire before yours. The same rule mentioned in point 1 applies to your child. Check your dates!
5.- Are you sure you’re in your country’s official travel website?
Nowadays, it’s easy for anybody to make a page with the same look and feel as official sites. Make sure you’re getting your information and renewal reservations from official, trusted sources. Avoid headaches.
Some final words and tips:
Phew! Everything is in order and your passport and documents are all ok. Be sure to apply these final tips before traveling.
- Bring copies of your passport and stash them in a different place as your actual passport.
- Leave copies of your passport at home with someone you trust.
- Email yourself a copy of all your travel documents in case you need to access them while on vacation.
