1. Lead times and the cost to obtain or renew US Passports is longer and more expensive than ever experienced before. If you even think you might be traveling overseas within the next two years you should apply now. The application process is very simple and only requires easily obtained documents. Check with your local Post Office or Court Clerk for directions on where and how to apply. States have passport offices, which you may visit personally to apply for special or expedited passport services. Those offices are listed on the US Government website.
2. Airlines are cancelling routes and making changes throughout the world that leave less options for flights and schedules, which you may remember from the past. If you have any thoughts about flying within the States and/or abroad, we suggest you check with the airlines to determine which carriers serve that city/country. Unless your affiliated organization or trip leader is handling your travel plans, you will definitely need this information in the early stages of planning your trip.
3. Security requirements seem to be changing daily. Some are not important and only require your attention while in the air, at the counter before you fly, or when you arrive. Other requirements may make it impossible for you to board the airplane and may require documents or proofs requiring time to obtain. Be sure to check requirements with government websites as well as the airlines when you begin planning your trip. This will save you time and money.
4. Covid is a word that frightens many and even causes panic in some cases. We have found that it is important to maintain current information on testing and verification requirements. In most cases this will provide the information needed to travel and alert you to the need for required documentation. Be alert and check with your airline and government websites for information you will need,
5. Typically, overseas travel requiring a passport dictates that you have a minimum of six months remaining on your passport before the expiration date in order to travel. It is your responsibility to be sure compliance with this requirement. There is nothing in the system that does this for you. Therefore, be sure long before planning your trip that you check the expiration date of your passport to be sure your passport will be valid for at least six months after your date of departure.
6. Airlines are constantly changing their flight schedules and times of departure and arrival. You should receive notifications from the airline each time your flight schedule changes. Be very careful to update your transportation plans and other schedules, which may be affected by your flight schedule change. Don’t show up at the airport after your flight departs because you missed an e-mail. We suggest you check your current flight schedule online a day before your departure and again just before leaving for the airport. Yes, this is also very important!!!
7. We highly recommend developing a permanent “Trip Check List” in your phone to be sure you have each and every item needed for your trip is not overlooked. It’s easy to set up on your phone. Call it “Trip Check List”. List everything you can think of, no matter how small or insignificant, that you need to do or take with you. Even list the things you need to do before departing. You’ll be pleasantly surprised how many times your “Trip Check List” will make your trip more enjoyable with less emergencies.
Please contact your trip leader or WBM directly at sandy@wbmonline.org for any questions or help. We’re here to serve.
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