Passport • Check your passport’s expiry date — many countries require at least 6 months of validity beyond your return date.
• Ensure your passport has at least two blank pages for stamps or visas.
• If your passport is lost or stolen abroad, contact the nearest British Embassy or Consulate immediately.
• Scan or photograph your passport and email a copy to yourself (and a trusted family member).
• Consider keeping a digital copy securely in cloud storage.
Visa Requirements • Visit the UK Government’s travel page: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice to see if you need a visa.
• Common examples:
– Europe (Schengen area) – no visa needed for up to 90 days in any 180-day period for UK citizens.
– USA – apply online for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) at least 72 hours before travel.
– India, Vietnam, Turkey – often require an eVisa you apply for online before flying.
• Check entry requirements for work, volunteering, or study – they differ from tourism.
• Some visas can take weeks to process, so apply well in advance.
Why It’s Essential • Covers medical emergencies, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and flight delays.
• Medical costs abroad can be extremely expensive — even a short hospital stay can cost thousands.
What to Look For • Medical cover: at least £2 million for worldwide travel.
• Cancellation cover: equal to the total cost of your trip.
• Baggage cover: typically £1,500 – £2,000.
• Adventure sports: ensure it covers skiing, diving, hiking, etc., if you plan to do these.
• Pre-existing conditions: declare all health conditions to avoid claim rejections.
Before You Go • Check vaccination requirements at least 6–8 weeks before travel.
• Use the NHS travel health site: www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/travel-vaccinations/travel-vaccination-advice .
• Common recommended vaccinations:
– Hepatitis A & B
– Typhoid
– Tetanus / Diphtheria / Polio
– Yellow Fever (some countries require proof of vaccination)
Medical Preparations • Bring prescription medicines in their original packaging, plus a doctor’s note.
• Carry extra doses in case of delays.
• Pack a basic first-aid kit: painkillers, plasters, antiseptic, rehydration sachets, antihistamines.
Health While Abroad • Avoid drinking tap water in countries where it’s unsafe — use bottled or boiled water.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites (repellent, long sleeves, nets).
• Know the location of nearby hospitals or clinics.
Before You Go • Research exchange rates and whether the country uses cash-heavy or card-friendly payments.
• Tell your bank your travel dates to avoid fraud blocks.
• Consider a travel debit card like Wise, Revolut, or Monzo — low or no foreign transaction fees.
• Keep a small amount of local currency for taxis, tips, or small purchases.
On Arrival • Use ATMs in banks or airports, not on the street.
• Avoid airport exchange counters if possible — poor rates and high fees.
• Keep a backup card in a separate location.
Know the Basics • Some countries have strict laws:
– Singapore: fines for chewing gum, littering, or jaywalking.
– UAE: public displays of affection and alcohol consumption outside licensed venues are illegal.
– Thailand: disrespecting the King or monarchy can lead to imprisonment.
Cultural Awareness • Research dress codes (e.g. modest clothing in religious sites).
• Learn local tipping etiquette — it varies (e.g. 10% in USA, often none in Japan).
• Avoid gestures or phrases that could be offensive.
Flights • Check in online 24–48 hours before departure.
• Print or download your boarding pass.
• Verify baggage limits and fees — weigh your bag at home.
Accommodation • Confirm your booking and note the hotel address and contact number.
• Read reviews for safety and location awareness.
• Ask about check-in/check-out times, Wi-Fi, and security.
Driving • Check if you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) — available from the Post Office (£5.50).
• Carry your UK licence and car insurance details.
• Research local driving laws (e.g. right- vs left-hand driving).
• Familiarise yourself with tolls and parking systems.
Public Transport • Download transit apps like Rome2Rio or Citymapper.
• Research airport transfer options before arrival — taxis, shuttles, trains, etc.
Mobile Phones • Check your mobile provider’s roaming charges.
• For longer trips, buy a local SIM or an eSIM (e.g. Airalo, Holafly).
Apps to Download • Google Maps (offline mode) • Google Translate • XE Currency Converter • WhatsApp (for free calls/messages over Wi-Fi) • TripIt or Hopper (for travel plans and alerts)
Before You Go • Register with the FCDO for travel alerts.
• Check safety ratings of your destination (crime, weather, political situation).
• Keep emergency contact numbers handy — local police, ambulance, and the British Embassy.
While Abroad • Keep valuables in a hotel safe.
• Avoid showing large amounts of cash or expensive jewellery.
• Stay alert in crowded areas for pickpockets.
• Don’t accept drinks or rides from strangers.
Essentials • Travel documents: passport, visa, insurance, itinerary.
• Electronics: chargers, adapters, power bank.
• Clothing: suited to climate and culture (layers for variable weather).
• Reusable water bottle, eye mask, travel pillow, snacks.
• Toiletries under 100 ml if in carry-on.
Luggage Tips • Use a luggage tag with your UK contact details.
• Weigh your suitcase before leaving.
• Keep one change of clothes and valuables in your carry-on in case your luggage is lost.
• Check if your destination still requires:
– Vaccination proof
– Negative test results
– Passenger Locator Forms
• Check if your airline or destination requires face masks in airports or on planes.
• Always carry digital and paper copies of health documents.
Learn Basic Phrases • Hello / Thank you / Please / Where is … / How much?
• Locals often appreciate even basic attempts at their language.
Cultural Prep • Read about local history, religion, and customs.
• Learn how tipping works and what’s considered polite or rude.
• Understand meal times — for example, dinner may start later in southern Europe.
• Unplug non-essential appliances.
• Set timers for lights to make your home look occupied.
• Test home security cameras and switch on alarms if installed.
• Ask a neighbour or friend to collect post and parcels so they’re not left outside.
• Avoid posting your holiday plans on social media until after your trip.
• Double-check doors and windows are locked.
• Passport valid for 6 + months
• Visa requirements confirmed
• Travel insurance purchased
• Vaccinations and medications prepared
• Accommodation booked
• Money and cards sorted
• Packing complete
• Local laws and etiquette researched
• Phone / data ready for abroad
• Airport transfers and transport planned
• Home secured and documents backed up