Insurance
Money
Providers
Blog
News
Newsletter
Travel InsuranceTop 10 Travel Tips
1.) Check the latest travel advice for your destination. Important information can be found at the Department of Health, the World Health Organisation and Lonely Planet.
2.) Before travelling overseas register your travel and contact details with the local foreign embassy or consulate. This ensures you can be contacted in an emergency.
3.) Check what documentation you require to enter the country or countries you are visiting. Visas are a common requirement, but remember a visa does not guarantee entry.
4.) Take out travel insurance. This ensures you are covered for hospital treatment, medical evacuation and any activities you plan on doing.
5.) Make copies of your paperwork (such as passport details, insurance policy, travellers cheques, credit cards and visas). Carry one copy in a separate place to the originals (e.g. your suitcase) and leave another copy with friends or family at home.
6.) Check with your doctor or pharmacist for medical requirements before travelling. For many destinations vaccinations and other precautions are recommended, especially for young children.
7.) Obey the law. Read up on local laws, guidelines and customs for your intended destination. Pay particular attention to driving laws, vehicle regulations (if you intend to take your own vehicle) and alcohol restrictions. The US State Department publish useful information for your reference, available here.
8.) Plan ahead and make arrangements as early as you can. Book early to secure your flights, hotels and activity placements. Arrive at the airport early to avoid the queues and prepare for tightened security checks. Travel during off-peak periods if possible.
9.) Avoid crime. Do not wear conspicuous clothing or jewellery and do not carry excessive amounts of money. Pack your own bags before your outward and return journeys. Do not accept packages from strangers. Do not leave your luggage unattended at the airport. Keep cash in your bag, your wallet, your money belt and your baggage – if you are mugged you are less likely to lose everything.
10.) Read experiences from other people on the Internet. Its very likely someone has already travelled to your intended destination, embarked on the activities you will enjoy, and written about it. Blogs and photo sites are an excellent way to understand what your experience will be like, and help you better plan for your journey.
The first step to planning the perfect holiday is deciding what type of break you would like.Tranquillity? Excitement? Cocktails on the beach or wildlife safari in a Jeep? Would you like to experience local history and culture or take the clubs by storm with your friends? At this stage don't let money scare you away – this is your chance for a perfect holiday, and with careful planning and research you'd be surprised how easily your goals can be accomplished.
Next choose your destination. Remember you may not have to leave the UK to find your ideal location. At this stage you should bear in mind travel times to and from your destination, whether by air, rail, road or sea.Weather is another important factor; useful weather forecasts around the world can be found at Weather2Travel. Browse the web for cities and towns in your chosen country to find somewhere most suitable for you. Travelistic and WikiTravel offer excellent videos and guides for popular destinations.
Now comes the careful decision of how to get there and where to stay. It is worth shopping around for the best deals – don't necessarily go with the first deal you find. It pays to read reviews of the accommodation, resort, as well as the travel company. Make sure any companies you deal with are accredited by travel associations.
Travel insurance at this point is essential. Most insurance policies will cover you for delays and cancellations, however you must be covered before you book your holiday. Read the small print of your travel insurance policy carefully to understand what you're covered for and what you are entitled to claim.
If possible make all payments by credit card. This will give you extra buyer protection that isn't available with cash, cheque or debit cards and often offer extra insurance against fraud.
Remember the internet is your best friend. Thousands of bloggers write reviews, rants and guides everyday and there's bound to be useful information waiting to be researched. Online brochures for popular travel destinations, hotelsand resorts are also very useful. And not forgetting comparison sites like CompareNow to find good deals!
Finally,before you travel make sure your paperwork is in order. Ensure yourpassport has a good 6 to 12 months before expiry. Talk to your GP about medical requirements and vaccinations. Read up on government advice about the destination.
Related Frequent Questions: