Summer holidays are around the corner!  Are you planning to travel the globe in search of forgotten treasures, set out on adventures or simply sit back and soak in the sun on the patio of a charming little coffee shop? If you want to get the most out of this special time, you have to prepare ahead of time! Here are a few tips that will help you plan a great summer holiday.
 

• Vacation budget: having a vacation budget will help you enjoy a fantastic holiday without leaving you in the red! Use our calculator to find out how much money you need to start putting aside for your upcoming vacation!
   
• Travel insurance: this affordable product is a must when planning any summer vacation. Whether you're planning to visit the old continents or other provinces, always make sure to pack your travel insurance.
   
• A checklist so you don't forget anything: this tool contains a wealth of very useful information to make sure you don't forget anything and can travel with peace of mind.
   
• When your health goes, everything goes! This is especially true when you're on vacation. Visit our frequently asked questions section in I Travel the Healthy Way to avoid getting caught off guard!
   
• Take advantage of our travel assistance services: our service coordinators are always ready to help you even on your days off. Don't hesitate to contact them in case of need.
   

Camping with kids, and enjoying it!

A few tips* just for you...
 

• Avoid going from one site to another or travelling all day and stopping only to eat and sleep. When planning a camping trip, you should focus on finding a great location where each member of your family will find something enjoyable to do. Spending a few days at the same location will enable your children to make new friends, allow you to get acquainted with the area (and worry less about your kids' whereabouts) and relax more.
   
• Have a first-aid kit that includes treatments for food and insect allergies.
   
• If you bring one of your child's friends along, you need to know his or her life-threatening food or insect allergies and be ready to deal with them.
   
• Ensure that each child keeps a safe distance from the fire. 
   
• Teach children camping safety. Keep sand or water nearby to put out the campfire.
   
• Tell your kids to always go with a buddy when leaving the campsite and let an adult know when they are leaving and when they'll be back.
   
• Try to avoid wearing fragrances and bright colours. They can attract wasps.
   
• Food attracts wild animals and insects. If possible, store it in a cooler in your car, not in your tent.
   

But, above all, however you decide to spend your summer vacation, have fun and relax!

*Safety rules: Health Canada