We’ve all been there when trying to plan a holiday, whether as an individual, a couple or a member of a family. Time off work is scheduled, the tickets are sorted and holiday wardrobe items and various other sundries have been purchased.
Now…has anything been forgotten?
Well, sorry to say it, but there are quite a few things that may have been forgotten in the excited rush to get your holiday sorted. There’s no need to fear, though, because here are five essential tips to help ensure your holiday goes smoothly and virtually hassle-free.
1. Check That Passport! – Okay, this may seem like a no-brainer, but how many times have you heard tales of people arriving at the airport, all packed and ready to jet off to some fantastic, exotic corner of the world, only to find their passports have expired? The success of your entire holiday depends on this detail, so make sure this is the first thing you check when planning any trip abroad.
2. How’s Your Health? – It’s a good idea to make an appointment with your doctor about six weeks before you’re due to travel. Not only will you be sure you’re in tip-top shape for your journey, but he or she can advise you on any vaccinations or specific precautions you should take with regard to your destination(s). You may also want to look into purchasing travel insurance if you don’t already have a policy. Some policies will cover anything from medical treatment to cancelled flights, so it can be a real benefit all around.
3. Where In The World Are You? – These days, it’s especially important to keep regular contact with the folks back home. When possible, make sure friends and loved ones have a contact number for you. You should also arrange to check in regularly with them, letting them know where you are and where you’re staying if you didn’t leave that information with them already. It’s a good idea, too, to make copies of your passport, insurance policy and ticket details to leave with a friend or family member.
4. Emergency Cash Fund – If you get stuck in an emergency situation, you might need some cash on hand to get yourself out of it; not everywhere accepts credit cards. Try to keep some cash set aside, or make sure you will always have reasonably quick access to some extra cash, just in case.
5. FCO Travel Advice – This is a some sound advice for you. Call the Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s travel advice hotline (0845 850 2829) or visit their website ( ) before you depart on your trip. It’s packed with helpful information and could really save you a lot of trouble. And let’s face it, “trouble” is the last thing you want when you’re trying to relax on holiday.
Of course, one of the most important things to remember on your holiday is to have fun, and taking note of these tips will help ensure you have plenty of time to concentrate on doing just that.
