Brits urged to check passports and travel insurance before summer holidays

19 July 2023 , 08:25

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A six point check-list should help your holiday go off as smoothly as possible (Image: Getty Images)

Holidaymakers are being urged to follow a six-point checklist before heading away on trips this summer, according to the Travel Association.

The organisation, formerly known as the Association of British Travel Agents or ABTA, is a trade association for tour operators and travel agents in the United Kingdom.

It has issued a checklist includes keeping up to date with the Foreign Office travel advice for the destination you're visiting and making sure passports are valid for your travel dates.

ABTA’s research and booking trends from its members have consistently shown holidays are high on people’s spending agenda this year, despite the ongoing squeeze on household finances.

Don't get caught out when heading on holiday (Getty Images)

Two-thirds of people planning to go on holiday abroad before the year is out, even though money is tight.

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Graeme Buck, ABTA’s director of communications, said: “Whether you’re already booked to travel over the summer months, or are thinking of booking late this summer, following ABTA’s Travel Checklist is designed to remove any eleventh-hour panicking by making sure you’ve ticked off the essential steps to take before you go away.

“For anyone yet to book, our number one piece of advice is to speak with an ABTA member travel agent or tour operator. They’re experts at taking the stress out of holiday planning, as they have access to better prices and a wider choice of trips compared to booking independently, and can easily guide you through the deals on offer to find you the best break for your budget.”

Check out ABTA's travel checklist below...

1. Check the government advice

Read the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office travel advice for the latest updates on entry requirements, any recommended travel vaccinations, and guidance on safety and security for the destination you’re visiting.

The website is regularly updated on a whole host of issues including, recently, the riots in France and the heatwave that is currently scorching the south of Europe.

2. Check your passport

Passport rules have changed following Brexit (Getty Images)

It is important to check whether your passport will be valid for the dates of your trip and renew as early as possible if needed.

Note that if you’re travelling to any country in the EU (except Ireland), your passport must have been issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the EU and be valid for at least three months after the day you plan to leave.

3. Get the right travel insurance

Take out comprehensive travel insurance that covers your specific needs, including any activities you plan to do or existing medical conditions.

It is important to take out insurance as soon as you book your holiday, as then you'll be covered in case your flight is cancelled or there is an issue with the booking.

4. Get your health card in order

It is important to keep your health card in order (PA)

Make sure you take an in-date EHIC or a new GHIC with you if you’re travelling to the EU or Switzerland, so you can access state-provided emergency healthcare if you need it while you’re away. Apply for a card for free at NHS.uk.

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5. Check travel rules

It is important to know any specific country rules when travelling to Europe

Now that the UK is no longer a member of the EU, there are some important differences to be aware of when travelling to Europe.

This includes new passport validity requirements, restrictions on items that can be taken into the EU, changes to the documentation required when driving or taking your pet abroad, and charges for using your mobile phone depending on your network’s policy.

While you don’t yet need a visa for short trips to Europe, you will need a visa if you plan to stay more than 90 days in any 180-day period.

6. Get your travel money sorted

The use of cash and card varies from country to country, so make sure you take enough travel money with you to suit the country you’re visiting and how you plan to travel when you get there.

It’s worth noting that many ATMs overseas carry a usage charge, and you may need cash on arrival for bus or taxi fares, as well as for tips or for cash-only transactions while on holiday.

As always, if you need any further guidance or would like specific advice for your trip, speak to your ABTA member travel provider.

Milo Boyd