The footage of journalists flying in their droves to Portugal earlier this month was strangely reassuring; holidays are back (with all the restrictions and caveats in place, of course).
The good news for all the avid travellers out there is that international holidays are now possible once again, should you be keen to travel to the aforementioned Portugal, Gibraltar, Singapore, New Zealand, Australia and a couple of others. And if none of these destinations takes your fancy, then not to worry; the UK’s green travel list is set to expand on 7th June.
We can’t wait! But given how long it’s been since some people last left the UK, you might need a refresher on all the essential travel tips to make sure your journey goes smoothly. And that’s exactly what this guide is here to help you with. Here are 7 essential travel tips now that we can go abroad again.
CHECK WHAT THE CURRENT REGULATIONS ARE
The easing of travel restrictions hasn’t simply returned everything to normal. Many countries that you can now visit are still dealing with the virus, and there could well be restrictions and requirements on entry and exit, self-isolation and the provision of a negative COVID-19 test.
It’s worth checking the UK government’s guidance on travelling abroad before booking a holiday anywhere. You’d also be wise to do some research on your destination of choice to see what the regulations are like over there. In many cases, a staycation on home soil is still the safest option.
SORT OUT SOME INTERNATIONAL MONEY
Many people have grown accustomed to using their cards everywhere nowadays, especially after the pandemic and the huge surge in contactless payment usage. However, this might not always be an option where you’re travelling to, so it’s worth sorting out some money before you go.
If you’re not too fussed about where you go on holiday, you may want to use the exchange rate as a basis for where you visit. This is especially useful if you want to travel ASAP and, therefore, can’t wait to see if the rate will improve over the coming weeks and months. As long as the destination is on the government’s approved list, this could be an excellent way to add some excitement to your first post-COVID-19 trip abroad.
BE CAREFUL WHEN PACKING LIQUIDS
Rules regarding travelling with liquids have been in place for quite a few years now, so you’re probably still aware of them. However, you might need a reminder of the specifics, especially given how important it is to follow these rules.
All liquids must be packed in transparent, resealable plastic bags that are contained within your hand luggage. No container may hold more than 100ml, and only a maximum of one litre is allowed per passenger. However, these rules may differ slightly depending on where you’re travelling to, so it’s worth checking what’s okay before you go anywhere.
For smokers and vapers, lighters are permitted but only one per person. It must also be kept in a resealable bag. The same goes for e-liquids, with the same rule about each container not exceeding 100ml.
GET TO THE AIRPORT IN GOOD TIME
Most people don’t enjoy spending several hours in an airport with nothing to do but wait for their flight. It can be even more agonising if things get delayed. However, it’s still better than the alternative of trying to rush through the airport, stressed and sweaty, so you don’t miss your flight.
It’s easy to forget how much you have to do before you can board a plane, which is why it’s worth arriving in good time. This is particularly pertinent with the extra checks required due to the global pandemic.
PACK THE RIGHT PLUG ADAPTERS
Given how reliant we can be on technology when on holiday, there are few things worse than travelling abroad and discovering that your plugs don’t match the sockets available. Places like the US and most of mainland Europe, for instance, use two-pronged plugs, so before you head to your destination, you’ll want to make sure you have suitable adaptors. Otherwise, you won’t be able to charge your phone or tablet unless you find a shop that sells them at your destination.
You can look here for more information on which plug types are commonly used in various countries around the world. That way, you know what kind of adaptor you’ll need before you travel, so you can make sure it’s packed along with your other essentials.
SORT OUT YOUR INSURANCE
Travelling abroad without insurance is never a good idea. You don’t know what might happen during your holiday, and you don’t need a lack of cover making things worse. It can be scary enough falling ill or having an accident in a foreign country without the fear of medical costs hanging over your head. In short, for peace of mind and pocket, make sure you sort out travel insurance in advance of your trip.
Given that the pandemic is still an issue, it’s worth getting a policy that includes COVID-19 related issues as cover, too. That way, should you catch the virus overseas and have to spend more time out there than intended, it will be slightly less of a problem.
MAKE SURE YOU HAVE ALL THE NECESSARY TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
Travelling abroad isn’t as easy as just hopping on a plane and going wherever you desire. To gain access to certain countries, you’ll need specific documents, such as a visa.
Something that many people may be confused about is what’s required for travelling to Europe in a post-Brexit world. Obviously, the ties between the UK and the EU were officially cut at the end of 2020, right before the country went into its third lockdown. So, a lot of people haven’t had the opportunity to travel to the continent since this significant change happened.
The good news is that you don’t need a visa if you plan on visiting an EU country for less than 90 days. However, there are some rules regarding passports and changes that may happen from 2022 onward which are worth familiarising yourself with. Even if this information isn’t necessary for you right now, it could prove vital for you in the future.
The fact that international travel is becoming less and less restricted is amazing news for everyone who’s been craving a bit of wanderlust. Before you jet off anywhere, though, just make sure you’re prepared for the trip with these tips. That way, there shouldn’t be any nasty surprises that ruin your much-deserved overseas break.