The Ministry of Interior have been issuing safety tips under the hashtag #SafeTravel on its Twitter account for people going abroad for summer vacation.

The Ministry of Interior has advised travelling citizen and expatriates not to accept baggage from unknown people as it may put them in trouble, reports The Peninsula.

For a #SafeTravel, ensure that your hand baggage doesn't contain any banned items. For a complete list http://t.co/lBN74iMCS9

— Ministry of Interior (@MOI_QatarEn) July 2, 2015

Passengers with luggage to be checked-in can take advantage of express baggage counters if they check-in online. #SafeTravel

— Ministry of Interior (@MOI_QatarEn) June 24, 2015

Schools in Qatar are closed for summer vacation, giving parents an opportunity to travel abroad without impacting their children's study. Most schools closed in the first week of this month and will reopen in the first week of September.

The ministry said travellers should also ensure baggage weight limit before they leave home to avoid delays and save money on excess baggage.

It is good to head to the airport in advance, in anticipation of traffic jams to avoid any delay or missing the flight.

With Ramadan underway, peak times for traffic congestions have changed which should be kept in mind while planning travel, the ministry said. It urged travellers to check their documents before flying, including passports, visas, air tickets and exit permits.

Residents should also ensure their residency permits don't expire while they are on vacation.

Ensure baggage weight limit before you start from home, to avoid delays and save money of excess baggage. #SafeTravel

— Ministry of Interior (@MOI_QatarEn) June 24, 2015

Residents driving their cars to Hamad International Airport should remember that HIA has introduced long-term parking fees.

Other tips include the following:

Travellers should ensure that the doors of their homes are closed and should not leave behind jewellery and other valuables.

Money, jewellery and other valuables should be deposited in bank before you leave and not leave it behind at home.

Ensure that gas pipes and electrical devices and points are switched off.

Those travelling by road should check their vehicles and change tyres if necessary.

Always fasten seat belts throughout the journey and keep first aid box and fire extinguishers in case of emergency.

Make use of GPS to find routes and plan the journey.

Photo by Sanjiban Ghosh