1. Dig out your passport and make sure it’s in date
It might sound simple but there is nothing that dampens your pre-holiday excitement quite like the realisation that you can’t find your passport or that it’s out of date. Checking it a couple of months in advance is something few of us would think about doing, yet it’s imperative you do otherwise your holiday could be over before it’s even started.
Be aware that there are also some countries that require your passport to be valid for a particular period from your date of 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. To check regulations for the country you are visiting, simply go to the Foreign travel advice - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

2. Check you have the essential documents for your trip
Whether this is entry visas or your driving license, your boarding pass or hotel and transfer confirmation, get organised and put them all together in a plastic folder. It’s important you read your vouchers and tickets carefully so you are aware of any emergency instructions and arrival and departure information.

3. Make sure you know your luggage allowances – even if you have flown recently
Over-packing and being stuck at the check-in desk with luggage that’s too heavy can really start your holiday off on the wrong foot. You need to ensure you check your luggage restrictions with your airline you are travelling with and you can find this information directly on their website. Luggage information can change daily therefore it’s important that you familiarize yourself with your airlines most up to date information as we cannot be responsible for situation where you may have to pay extra. So before you go, make sure you know your luggage allowance, you have weighed your case and you understand the rules of the airline by reading their terms and conditions. If you do decide you are going to need to take extra luggage, pre-book it in online or contact your local branch in advance.

4. Check your route to the airport and pre-book a parking space
Both before you set off and while you are driving, listen to the radio for traffic alerts. Make sure you have planned your route and allow extra time in case of disruption. If you have pre booked your car parking or airport hotel make sure you familiarize yourself with the route and distance from the airport. If you have not pre booked your car parking then make sure you book your space before you go the get the best price. 

5. Take out travel insurance

Getting cover will protect you against a variety of potential things that could go wrong and threaten to ruin your holiday such as lost or stolen baggage, delayed flights and medical charges not covered by the EHIC. To get the best possible deal on travel insurance call your local branch.

While it’s important to have an EHIC, it isn’t a substitute for travel insurance. Getting cover will protect you against a variety of potential things that could go wrong and threaten to ruin your holiday such as lost or stolen baggage, delayed flights and medical charges not covered by the EHIC. To get the best possible deal on travel insurance call your local branch.

6. Organise travel currency
Not organising your travel money until the last minute is another mistake, which could cost you. If you are planning on taking currency, the cheapest rates will be found online, where many companies can either arrange for delivery or pick up. It’s important that you contact your bank to let them know that you are going abroad and that you may want to use your debit or credit card while you are away. This is because any sudden overseas activity can cause them to become suspicious and without warning your card could just be stopped. Also be sure to take an emergency phone number to contact them, just in case.

7. Sort out pet care
Don’t forget to organize care for the furry member of your family while you are away. That way, you can sit back and relax while you’re away, knowing that they are being looked after too.

8. Pre-book your car hire
If you are planning on hiring a car when you go on holiday, Pre booking is the key to save money and ensure there is availability. It’s especially important as during peak time for holidays as you could turn up to find there are no cars or little choice. Car Hire is a great way to visit lots of places and avoid costs of excursions. 

9. Pre-book your Excursions
Pre Booking your excursions and planning your holiday saves you time and money. We have many great excursions available in all the top destinations; click here to view your top attractions for your holiday destination.