When your child or teenager starts discussing their future plans, many parents might feel a level of concern if traveling is included. From the risks associated with the different types of transport, to the thought of your child being alone in another city, state, or even country, these worries can be quite understandable. However, you may also not want to stem your teen’s passions. Instead, consider the ways that you can support their dreams, while still implementing some more practical aspects, and doing all you can to maintain their safety.
Read also: Six Family Vacations Your Teen Will Actually Enjoy
Save for Travel
The cost of traveling can be quite high, especially when you factor in needing to get, or renew, a passport, the travel itself, accommodation, and then general daily living costs. Opening a Wealthify junior ISA could allow you to save up money for your teen, and accrue interest over time. Once your child reaches the age of 18, they can then access this money, which could help to fund some of their travel plans. The sooner this account is opened, the more money you may be able to put aside. Your child might be incredibly grateful for the thoughtful gesture, especially if their education or other prior commitments haven’t left them with much time to earn and save enough money on their own.
Have a Plan in Place for Safe Travel
Having open discussions about the different places in the world can also be quite helpful. Your child may have expressed an interest in seeing a number of countries, but not yet have any plans set in stone. When this is the case, you could help them to look into which destinations may be more viable. Within this, you may want to think about which countries tend to be deemed as safer for traveling, which can help to put your mind at ease about them commencing their journeys. Looking into the different laws that each country holds can also educate them on the cultural differences, as well as the behaviors that will be expected of them.
Include Friends and Family
If you have family or good friends located in other states, you may want to ask them to help with teaching your teen about safe travel. A number of airlines might have procedures in place for unaccompanied minors, allowing you to let them fly on their own, and then meet up with people at the other end. This can be a good way to build their confidence in solo traveling, as well as to give them a little taste of national traveling, even before they reach adulthood. Plus, this way you can feel a little bit more comfortable knowing that they will be staying, and spending time, with people who you trust.
Many young people enjoy seeing the different sights and experiences that the world has to offer. By considering the best ways that you might be able to support your teen’s dreams, you could empower them to travel more confidently, and do your best to make sure that they understand how to keep themselves safe.
