Travel essentials
Passport
If you are travelling outside the UK, you will need a passport - make sure you apply for one in plenty of time.
If you already have a passport, check that it is still valid, and doesn't expire until at least six months after you return (some countries insist on this).
Make sure you have completed the section at the back relating to next of kin.
Visas
Some countries require you to have a visa.
Check on requirements for your destination/s - visit the Foreign & Commonwealth Office website (www.fco.gov.uk) or call the FCO's Visa Enquiry Line on 020 7008 8438.
Make sure you obtain necessary visas if required.
If you are visiting a destination outside the European Union, and are planning to work whilst you are there, you will also need to obtain a work permit.
Driving licence
You'll need to take your driving licence with you if you are planning to hire a car at your destination (although bear in mind you will need an International Driving Permit for countries that are not members of the European Union or European Economic Association).
If you are taking your own car, check with your insurance company that your cover includes driving abroad.
Travel insurance
Things can go wrong, so make sure you're covered!
Shop around for the best cover and always read the small print - pay particular attention to the details of the policy, especially if you are pregnant, have a pre-existing medical condition, or are planning to take part in sports activities (e.g. bungee jumping, jet skiing).
If you are taking your own car, make sure that you have comprehensive European breakdown cover.
Take details of your cover and the 24-hour emergency phone number with you on your trip.
E111
The "E111" gives eligible UK residents free or reduced-cost emergency treatment when travelling within the European Union.
Old E111 forms expired on 31st December 2004, so make sure you have a new form (each family member now needs an individual form). New forms expire on 31st December 2005, after which the UK will be adopting the new electronic card - European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
Visit the Department of Health website for further information and an online application form - www.dh.gov.uk.
Please note: The E111/EHIC are NOT an alternative to travel insurance.
Important
Before you go, make two photocopies of all your important travel documentation (passport, visa, driving licence, travel insurance details, E111, etc). Take one copy with you on your trip and keep it in a safe place (separate to you original), and leave the other with a friend or family member - preferably somebody with access to a fax machine, so that they could fax you a copy if necessary.
Money, money, money
Take a mixture of cash, travellers' cheques, and credit cards. Take more money than you think you will need in case of an emergency.
Vaccinations
Visit your local GP Practice at least 6 weeks before you go to check on immunisation requirements for your destination/s. Go to the vaccinations section for more information.
Laws & customs
Buy a good guidebook and read up on customs and culture (e.g. dress code) and laws for your destination/s before you go.
For example, did you know:
- Topless sunbathing is illegal on most of Florida's beaches?
- You could end up with a hefty fine if you swear or make a rude gesture in Kenya?
- You could be put in prison for using a camera or binoculars close to military operations in Egypt?
- Dropping litter could land you an instant fine in Singapore?
- You could be sentenced to 3-15 years in prison if you make a critical remark about the King or another member of the royal family in Thailand?
- You could face the death penalty for being caught with drugs abroad in several countries including China, Malaysia, and Indonesia?
Language
Buy a phrasebook to use in case of an emergency.
Personal stuff
If you think you might need condoms whilst you're away, take enough with you - they are not always easy to find abroad, and may not be as good quality as in the UK. For more information on contraception, see the between the sheets section.
Contact details
Leave a copy of your itinerary and contact details with family and friends at home. Keep them informed of any changes.
