*This is a guest post*

Family holidays are a time for bonding, spending time with your loved ones and a general time to relax and unwind from your full time commitments. Many families travel overseas for a holiday. This is generally a great idea as it educates your family on new cultures and allows you to explore the diversity of a different country. Especially for the kids, this is a great learning curve as they get to experience another country’s way of living. In many instances, when travelling to less fortunate countries, this would be beneficial as it allows them to be grateful for what they have and it really opens their eyes to see the poverty and struggle some nations encounter. If you are considering a family trip to India, a third-world country, there are a few things to consider prior. Take note of these 5 survival tips for your Indian travels:

Take out Travel Insurance

If travelling to a third-world country, such as India, travel insurance is a MUST. To ensure the safety and security of your family, taking out insurance will ensure any unexpected injuries or illnesses will be financed through your provider. Travel insurance also protects your personal belongings. In a less fortunate country, there are many ‘pick pockets’ that may steal your wallet or other personal possessions. Acquiring insurance prior to your travels is a necessity and will protect you from unexpected, costly problems.

Speak to Your Doctor

It is highly beneficial to visit your doctor prior to departing your home country. Especially when travelling to Asian countries, you may require injections to become immune from infectious diseases . India is prone to diseases such a polio, typhoid, hepatitis and meningitis. Therefore there may be a few immunizations required to protect you and your family from these harmful diseases. Be sure to check these prior.

Check Government Websites for Latest Information

There are some government websites that supply insightful information for people considering travelling to any country. The Smart Traveler website provides advice on local travel laws, health, security and entry and exit information. This will give you quality understanding of what to expect and prepare for prior to even confirming your initial travel plans. The site also provides handy information on locations and overall summaries of countries, such as India.

Pic Up a Multi-Currency Card

There are providers that supply handy and safe currency cards, such as a ‘Cash Passport’ card. This is very convenient and ensures the security of your personal cash. You can simply upload cash to the card online, prior to your travels, and avoid carrying your credit cards. The convenience of your Cash Passport card allows you to withdrawal money from most ATM’s and it converts the currency exchange automatically. It is also pin-protected for added security. It is essentially a debit card that is not linked to your personal bank account.

Extra Research – Travel Tips & Hints

In conjunction to sourcing information from government sites, do some extra research through blog posts and traveler reviews to try and pick up some handy hints and tips on India. People that have been there have obviously experienced the country first hand, therefore will provide you with some quality insight. It will be beneficial to gain some of this valuable information from experienced travelers.

Some of these tips are a necessity prior to travelling to India, some are a mere suggestion. Nonetheless, be sure to prepare your family before departure to ensure your holiday is as safe and memorable as possible.

Written by Marni Atkins
Marni has been travelling around India for 12 months with her 2 year old boy. Their next destination is Cambodia and Laos.