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FindLaw.com's Tips for Safe and Smart Summer Travel

By Adam Ramirez on April 26, 2011 | Last updated on March 21, 2019

Despite gas prices marching toward the $5 mark, the travel industry is predicting that Americans appear ready to travel again this summer.

Whether you intend to brave the gas pump sticker shock and take a road trip or head abroad, it's important to plan ahead.

Many travelers don't realize that traveling today is often complicated by numerous rules, regulations and laws, according to a press release from FindLaw.com, the Internet's top source for free legal information.

Border Crossings

Before you cross the border into Canada, Mexico or another country, check the laws about entering that country. For example, if you intend to travel into Canada, you may not be allowed to enter if you're asked and you admit to a charge of driving under the influence, according to FindLaw.com.

And even though you're an American, you now must present a passport to re-enter the United States (even for a short drive to Canada or Mexico). Enacted in the name of homeland security, this change in the law has profoundly altered traveling over the U.S.-Canada and U.S.-Mexico borders.  For decades, you only needed a current driver's license to cross the border of our nearest neighbors. No more. A good resource is the U.S. State Department.

Road Trips

If you're road tripping across state lines, make sure you have proof of auto insurance and auto registration in your glove box and make sure your driver's license is current. You may also want to clear up any old speeding or parking tickets that you may have in the state to which you are traveling, otherwise, you might find your car impounded in the event that you're stopped for a traffic violation.

To make sure your next big trip goes smoothly, take some extra time to review these tips from FindLaw.com to lessen hassles and increase your safety and security while traveling.

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