5 Things You Need to Remember When Travelling Abroad
There are so many things to remember when travelling abroad, especially if you holidaying with children. However, there are some essentials that you really can’t forget before you go away. This post lists 5 of the essentials you should be aware of.
Table of Contents
5 Things to Remember When Travelling Abroad
Check Your Passport
It is so important to check the date on your passport before you travel. There is nothing worse than either not being able to find it or, finding that it is out of date.
It is a good idea to check your passport’s date as soon as you can – otherwise you may not be able to travel. Some countries ask that your passport is valid for a particular number of months from the the date of your arrival. For example, the United Arab Emirates, Kenya and Turkey all require a minimum period of six months to be left on your passport from your date of entry.
If you need to check the regulations of the country you are visiting then just go over to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website.
Get Travel Insurance
The all-important travel insurance is something you definitely need to remember when travelling abroad – whether you are travelling in this country or overseas. The last thing you want to have to do is to pay out the enormous costs of medical care while you are abroad. It is also a good idea to cover things like delays, lost luggage and individual item insurance if you are taking something that is high value. Plus, don’t forget to cover for sporting activities if you intend to do any.
EHIC Medical Cards
Have an in-date European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is important to remember when travelling abroad within Europe. It means that if you do get ill while you were away, you would be entitled to either free or subsidised health care.
The EHIC is free and easy to apply for. All you need to do is go to the NHS website where you will be able to apply for your free card. A word of warning – don’t be misled by websites which charge a fee! Also, it is important to note that this isn’t a substitute for travel insurance. There are some medical charges which are not covered by the EHIC.
Local Currency
It may sound obvious but always check what the local currency is and always make sure that you have some. Ross and I wrongly assumed the currency when we travelled to Cyprus a couple of years ago and then we had to hunt around for a decent currency exchange store whilst we were there!
Luggage Allowance
I have to admit to over-packing and being caught short just before arriving at the check-in desk. As a result, some of it had to come out and, thankfully, it went into my hand luggage! The other option would have been to pay extra.
Before you go, make sure you have weighed your case. I tend to get on the scales and then have the case passed to me so I know how much is in there. Alternatively, you can buy handheld digital luggage scales for just a few pounds.
If you do need to take extra luggage, then you can pre-book it with your airline.
5 Things You Need to Remember When Travelling Abroad is a collaborative post.
