Prepping Our Young Adults to Travel Overseas
A Team Effort Led by Luxury Travel Advisor, Megan Grossman
Social media has made the world seem smaller and more accessible, encouraging young minds to venture beyond their comfort zones. More young adults are embarking on international adventures and exploring the world with a newfound sense of independence. Studying abroad is no longer an exception but a norm, and post-college graduation tours have expanded to exciting destinations like Japan. Students are now choosing to eschew typical spring break spots like the beaches of Florida for the cultural richness of European cities.
It is a privilege to help our family clients create memories while encouraging their kids to be curious about the outside world. Although our clients’ children have been fortunate to travel the world with their parents, many have yet to delve into the planning process or travel on their own. After a recent conversation with a client whose son was departing for Europe with friends for the first time, I was inspired to collaborate with the Huffman Travel team to compile the tips below to help young travelers navigate overseas travel. We hope that this advice will empower them, strengthen their confidence in travel and exploration, and reassure their parents.
Parents:
Purchase a travel insurance policy so they have medical coverage.
Consider purchasing a Medjet membership for your child. If your child is hospitalized, you can choose to have them transported home. If you do decide to do this, make sure your child’s traveling companions are aware of the policy.
If your child is studying abroad for an extended period and will require a visa, consider applying for a second passport to send with the visa application so they can still travel on their original passport during the processing period.
Make sure your child understands the exchange rate and tipping customs.
Before you go:
Take a photo of your passport and important travel document, save it in your phone’s “Favorites” and be sure your parents also have a copy.
Enable location sharing on your phone with your parents and travel companions.
Download the TravelSmart app from Allianz insurance for updated lists of medical facilities and providers in your destination.
Download the Smart Traveler app from the U.S. State Department so you are aware of any travel alerts/warnings, visa requirements and know where the nearest U.S. Embassy is located in the cities you are visiting.
Put Air Tags in all of your bags, including purses, wallets, and backpacks.
Exchange parents’ contact information with your traveling companions.
Download WhatsApp so you can text or call via the internet and also communicate with local people.
Be sure to know the local emergency number…it’s likely not 911.
Dressing respectfully abroad is important, as you’ll find it easier to relate to locals. Every country is different, and trends change constantly, so be sure to do some research before you pack.
Common Sense worth restating:
Do not pack medication, glasses or contact lenses in your luggage. Keep them in your carry-on and have a prescription handy.
Always be aware of your surroundings.
Always put your passport and valuables in a safe if there is one.
Keep a secret small amount of cash in your backpack or luggage in case of emergencies.
Learn how to greet people in their native language. It sets a familiar yet respectful tone and encourages human connection.
