Getting ready to jet off on your first holiday abroad? Ensure it’s an incredible experience from start to finish by following this guide on how to prepare. With just a little bit of research and planning, you’ll be feeling completely confident as you enjoy this amazing new adventure.
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1. Research destinations
The world is a big place, and finding a destination you’ll love requires careful consideration. However, if you figure out your needs and use these to guide your research you’ll arrive at amazing choices in no time. For example, prioritise places for child-friendly beach holidays or where you can grab some winter sunshine, or search for amazing cultural or geographical sites.
If you don’t know where to start, look at popular options for Brits relatively close to home such as Tenerife holidays where water sports abound, sailing trips around the Greek Islands, beach stays in Benidorm and city breaks in the major European capitals.
2. Organise your documents
You might be surprised how long it takes to organise your essential documents, especially if you’re travelling further afield, so plan well in advance where possible.
Most countries outside of Europe require British travellers to have a visa in order to enter, and while most can be requested and issued online, some destinations may request you to go to your local embassy. You’ll need to book your flights (if applicable) before applying for your visa. You should also invest in travel insurance, particularly if the holiday is classed as high-risk (such as skiing trips).
Bear in mind that some destinations demand you have a certain length of time left on your passport when you arrive in the country, and this can be up to six months. You can use a passport validity checker to ensure you’ve got sufficient time left before you book your trip.
3. Keep your luggage light
Don’t get caught out by strict airline weight limits. Try to stay well below the maximum to avoid being hit by extortionate additional baggage costs – or having to leave some of your things behind! You need less than you think, especially for holidays where you’ll be in a swimsuit every day. Put together a capsule wardrobe with interchangeable pieces and utilise laundry services while abroad if you need to. Most hotels and resorts offer a reliable laundry service.
Top tip: wear your heaviest clothes on the plane, such as denim and trainers, so these don’t take up your luggage allowance.
4. Sort out your currency
Finally, sort out your currency so you’re never left stranded without cash. You’ll be able to use your card abroad if you’re heading to a destination with ATMs, but it’s always best to carry some cash as well for things like taxis and tipping. Usually, you can get foreign currency in the UK but some countries have a closed currency which can only be traded in the destination.
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