Travel Tips - 10 Things to Do Before You Travel
In order to help you enjoy your holiday to the full and ensure you stay safe, Elephant Travel Insurance has been working with the Foreign & Commonwealth Office to provide you with this handy check list - 10 things you should do before you travel.
1. Get comprehensive Travel Insurance and check that it gives you all the cover you need.
2. Checkout any risks associated with your destination. The Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) are a great help. Try their Travel Advice website at www.fco.gov.uk/travel
3. At least 6 weeks before you go, find out what vaccinations you need. Your destination may carry a risk of a contactable disease such as malaria, typhoid, cholera, or even rabies. Check out our health advice, the FCO website at www.fco.gov.uk/travel can also help.
4. Take a valid EHIC with you, as well as adequate travel insurance. This will give you reduced cost or sometimes free medical treatment in 28 European countries. Get an EHIC online at www.dh.gov.uk/travellers or apply by phone on 0845 606 2030.
5. Get familiar with the local laws and customs of your destination. And remember that in certain countries, the security situation can change rapidly. So monitor the news and check out the FCO website, www.fco.gov.uk/travel or call on 0845 850 2829.
6. Make sure that your passport is valid for a minimum of six months from the date of your return. And check that it contains up-to-date information on your next of kin.
7. Photocopy your passport and insurance policy. Then make a note of the 24-hour emergency number, together with your credit card and ticket details. Leave your copies and notes, plus your itinerary and contact details with family or friends at home.
8. Find out the entry requirements for the country you are visiting. Their Embassy or High Commission will be able to tell you what British Nationals need. Just be sure to get your necessary visa and permits before you go.
9. It may sound obvious, but ensure you have enough money for your trip. You should even take some back up funds in traveller’s cheques, sterling or US dollars.
10. Some air travel will involve airlines you may not be familiar with. Remember you can always check their safety and reliability with a reputable travel agent.
For more travel recommendations, visit the Foreign & Commonwealth Office Know Before You Go website.