The Top Family Travel Regulations Every Military Member Should Know
Are you a military member planning a family vacation? If yes, then there are specific regulations that you should know before packing your bags. In this article, we’ll discuss the top family travel regulations every military member should know to have a smooth and hassle-free vacation.
Travel Benefits for Military Members
Before planning a vacation, familiarize yourself with the travel benefits offered to military members. These benefits include discounted flights, hotels, and car rentals, making vacations more affordable. Additionally, military members can stay in lodging facilities on military bases around the world. These facilities offer affordable prices, quality accommodations, and convenient locations.
Obtain passports and visas
If you are a military member traveling outside the United States for vacation, ensure your family has a valid passport. The U.S. military offers passport and visa services to its members for discounted rates. Additionally, if you are traveling to a country that requires a visa, apply early on to avoid any delays or last-minute issues.
Security and Identification
Military members are exempt from the TSA liquid restrictions, allowing them to carry liquids exceeding 3.4 ounces on the plane. However, it’s essential to carry proper identification, such as common access cards (CAC), dependent ID cards, or passports. These identifications will ensure a seamless checkpoint experience.
Overseas travel
If you are planning an overseas vacation, there are additional regulations to keep in mind. The U.S. military requires every military member and their families to register with the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This program provides safety and security updates of the destination country and helps the U.S. Embassy to locate citizens in an emergency.
Pets and Vehicles
If you are traveling with your pets, ensure you are aware of the regulations and paperwork necessary before boarding a plane. Additionally, if you are driving to your vacation destination, ensure your vehicle is up-to-date with registration, insurance, and maintenance.
Conclusion
In summary, military members should be aware of the specific travel regulations to ensure seamless vacations. From obtaining passports and visas to proper identification, from using the travel benefits to registering with STEP, every regulation plays an essential role in making your trip a successful one. Keep these points in mind before planning your next family vacation, and have a happy and safe trip!
