7 Important “To-Do’s” Before You Travel
1. Get travel insurance
Travel insurance is one of the most critical things you can arrange before leaving for your summer vacation, and you’ll almost certainly thank us for reminding you. While you won’t need travel insurance in most cases, we’d hate to see you in difficulty because you forgot to purchase it beforehand.
Your precise insurance will be determined by what you want to accomplish while away, but for most people, a typical policy will suffice. That being said, if you want to participate in any activities such as rock climbing or scuba diving, you should notify your policy provider because these are frequently added extras due to the increased risk they entail.
2. Check if you need a Covid-19 test
While things may appear to be returning to normal in some nations, this cannot be said for everyone, and having a test before you jet out to your summer destination is a fantastic way to avoid any hassles when you arrive. Although many countries have repealed this requirement, online information can be confusing, so it’s better to be cautious than sorry.
Aside from being required for some locations, it’s also a good idea to test overseas for peace of mind. In an increasingly connected world, viruses can spread quickly, and you can help by being responsible and verifying you’re free of Covid-19 before boarding the flight.
3. Get your documents in order
There’s nothing worse than arriving at the gate and realizing you don’t have your passport or boarding card in the spot you thought you left it. It’s a good idea to keep all of your documents (even scanned copies) in one folder so you know precisely where they are when you need them.
Documents required for your trip include your passport, driver’s license (if renting a car), travel insurance policy papers, and any other applicable paperwork such as visas or immunization certificates.
4. Make sure your vaccinations are up to date
If you’re going to a place where there’s a chance of catching certain diseases, make sure your immunizations are up to date. The easiest way to accomplish this is to see your doctor or a travel clinic at least 8 weeks before your trip, as certain vaccinations require a series of injections and can take time to take effect.
While most of us have had our Covid-19 vaccinations, it’s worth verifying how recently they were given because some countries require the most current one to have been given within the last 6 months. There is no silver bullet for this, so we recommend taking your time and conducting your own study.
5. Inform your bank of your travel plans
Another key thing to do before going is to notify your bank of your plans – especially if you’ll be using your credit or debit card while gone. If you forget to do this and then use your credit or debit card abroad, your bank may flag the transaction as suspicious and block your card.
6. Pack smartly
Packing is a pain, especially if you’re traveling with children, but keep in mind that you’re unlikely to wear even half of what you pack. To decrease how much you pack, choose goods that are adaptable and can be mixed and matched with other items you’re taking.
We recommend that you begin packing early so that you have plenty of time to decide what you need and don’t need to bring with you. When you’re through, make sure to weigh your bag if you’re checking in your luggage to avoid any shock costs.
7. Check for visa requirements
Always verify whether a visa is required for admission into the country/countries you’ll be visiting before booking your flights. Some nations will be denied entry into specific countries owing to political or social difficulties, and you may not have been aware of this previously, so check first.
It is very simple to check visa details. The UK government has a wealth of resources for every country, and while you’re there, you can also view the most recent safety, Covid-19, and social guidelines for potential visitors.