Travellers checklist |
| To help you have a safe trip, here are some handy top tips: |
| Check out any risks associated with your destination |
| The Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) provides guidance for travellers on its website www.fco.gov.uk/travel. It is packed with essential travel advice, tips and up to date country-specific information. |
| Also, visit www.gogapyear.com for top tips and useful hints on planning your Gap Year trip. |
| Check what vaccinations you need at least 6 weeks before you go |
| Consider whether you need to take extra health precautions – visit the Department of Health website - www.dh.gov.uk for health advice for travellers. Also visit the FCO website www.fco.gov.uk/travel for country-specific information. |
| Ensure you have a valid passport. |
| It needs to be in good condition and contain the necessary visas. |
| Get the right travel insurance |
| Check that it gives you all the cover you need. Think about any activities you may be doing, even spur of the moment ones, and make sure you’re covered for these. Get a quote and buy 24/7 travel insurance. |
| If you're travelling in the EU, carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) with you |
| If you fall ill or have an accident in a European Union country you may be able to get reduced-cost, sometimes free, medical treatment by presenting your EHIC to the hospital or doctor that is treating you. For more information, and to apply for the card, pick up the EHIC form from the Post Office, call 0845 606 2030 or visit www.dh.gov.uk/travellers (NB. This should not be used as a substitute for your travel insurance cover.) |
| Photocopy your passport and travel insurance policy |
| Make copies of your passport and travel insurance policy including the 24-hour emergency assistance number. Leave copies and notes, together with your itinerary and contact details, with your family and friends. |
| If you are going away for a long period of time eg backpacking, it is a good idea to set up a secure Internet email account. Email yourself and trusted friends or family details of your insurance policy, passport, itinerary and emergency contact numbers (insurance company, credit card company and British Consulate) - just in case. |
| Make provisions for any pets |
| You are best to do this well in advance of your holiday as kennels and catteries can get very booked up especially during the summer months. |
| Advice for those taking a Gap Year |
| If you decide to organise your trip with a gap year company, research it thoroughly before committing. Find out how long they have been operating and how many people they have taken abroad in the past. It’s a good idea to speak to past gap travellers who have used the company to find out about their experiences. |
| Make sure you have enough money for your trip |
| Take enough money for your trip and some back-up funds, e.g. travellers’ cheques, sterling or US dollars. |
| Keep your home safe while you're away |
| Ask neighbours or your local Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator to keep an eye on your home for you. Lock all doors and windows, garages and sheds before you go and remember to set the burglar alarm if you have one. Consider using a time-switch to turn on some lights at night. |
| Find a good guide book and get to know your destination |
| It's always a good idea to find out about your destination’s local laws and customs. |
| Look after your possessions and important documents |
| Keep a careful eye on your possessions. Never leave your luggage or valuables unattended or with someone you don’t completely trust. Also be aware of pickpockets who tend to operate in crowded areas. Make sure you have copies of all your important documents such as your passport, driving licence, travel tickets, travel insurance policy, itinerary and contact details. Keep these separate from the originals. |
| And finally… |
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| Get a quote and buy 24/7 travel insurance |
