Do These Five Things Before Going on Your Next Florida Vacation

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There’s a lot that can go wrong while you’re on vacation. By planning ahead, you can prevent the worst from happening and be ready for anything. Follow these tips before going on your next Florida vacation and enjoy a smooth trip.

1. Update Your ID’s and Passports

No one should travel without a valid ID. If you’re coming from outside of the U.S, you should be sure your passport won’t expire before your trip. No matter where you’re coming from, you should have a valid driver’s license.

A driver’s license that was issued years ago may not be enough to get you through security. If your license isn’t Real ID compliant, you’ll be turned away by the TSA. A license with a star in the right corner will get you through. Any licenses without one need to be updated.

After everything is ready to go, you need a place to store your documentation. A passport holder has enough room to store passports as well as other forms of identification. Look for one that has plenty of pockets and a strap for portability. Additionally, you should find one that has RFID protection.

2. Print Out Any Essential Documentation

Although most people rely on their smartphones to keep track of hotel reservations, boarding passes, and other travel details, you should always have printed documentation with you. Before you go, print out the documentation for your trip.

Consider placing your documents in a fireproof and waterproof document bag.

If you plan on driving to your destination or renting a vehicle, you may also want to print out your car insurance information. In the event of an accident, you’ll be prepared. Store everything together in a folder and keep it in a safe place.

3. Warn Your Bank and Credit Card Company

To protect you, banks and credit card companies often place temporary holds on account when they see activity come from unusual destinations. If you don’t warn your financial institution about your travels, they may freeze your account.

Preventing this is as simple as making a phone call. A few days before you travel, tell your bank and credit card company about your plans.

4. Prepare Your Home

Long before you go on vacation, you should consider how you can keep your home safe while you’re gone. For instance, you can use smart lights to make it less evident that no one is home.

These days, installing smart lights is affordable and straightforward. All you need to do is buy a smart outlet and plug a compatible light into the socket. Then, you can use an app to tell your light when to turn on and off. While you’re on vacation, your house will be lit and this could deter thieves.

5. Protect Your Family

Most parents will go through great lengths to protect their families. However, most parents also hate to think about their own demise. Before you travel, you should make sure you have a will in place.

A will ensures that your wishes will be enacted if the unspeakable happens. Because there are some risks associated with traveling, it’s especially important to have one in place before you begin your travels.

If you’re overwhelmed by the prospect of creating a will, know that you’re not alone. Working with a life or estate planning attorney is a great way to prepare for the future. They can help you create a Durable Power of Attorney, which allows you to appoint someone to handle your affairs.

An attorney can also explain more about your other options for estate planning, like trusts and living wills. Before you take a vacation, you should be informed and prepared.

If you live in Florida, reach out to Liz Moneymaker with questions about updating or creating your life plan documents.

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