Get holiday ready with a pre-travel checklist

Packing for a holiday can be stressful, so why not ease that pressure with our travel checklist? We've got you covered with what to do and when, meaning you can start your countdown without the worry of forgetting anything along the way.

Once you’ve booked your holiday

• check you have valid passports and visas – the government’s foreign travel advice lists the entry requirements for every country. Following Brexit, EU countries now require passports have at least three months to run and to have been issued less than 10 years before the date you arrive. If you can’t find your passport, check out our blog on what to do if you lose your passport.
• check coronavirus entry requirements – these are relaxing but many countries still require proof you’re fully vaccinated. The government's foreign travel advice has all the details.
• organise any vaccinations and medications – check the government's foreign travel advice or speak to your GP or travel clinic about any health protection you need.
• take out travel insurance – having cover from when you book means you’re covered for cancellation from that point if something prevents you from going on holiday. It’s worth looking ahead to your other holiday plans too.
• think about an annual travel insurance policy – if you’re planning to go away again in the next 12 months – even for a short city break in Europe or a holiday in the UK – look at annual travel insurance cover. Rather than take out a single trip policy for each holiday, annual travel insurance will cover you for multiple holidays over a 12-month period. Going annual could save you time and money.
• get a UK Global Health Insurance Card – this is free and gives you access to state provided healthcare in the EU. You can apply through the NHS website.
• make arrangements for your pets – from kennels to cat sitters, our blog on holiday plans for your pets has everything you need to ensure they’re looked after while you’re away.
• arrange your transport – whether you’re arranging transport to the airport, parking or car hire when you arrive, booking it early will give you more choice.

A month before you go

• check your luggage – your suitcases get rattled around during their travels so make sure they're up to the trip.
• shop for your holiday – make sure you’ve got everything you’ll need, from clothes to sun cream and mosquito repellent.
• order any prescriptions – make sure you have enough prescription medicines to take with you.

A week before you go

• tell your bank – letting them know you’ll be away will prevent them blocking your card when they see it being used somewhere unexpected.
• sort your travel money – you’ll get a better deal and it’s always useful to have some foreign currency for tips or to buy a drink when you arrive.
• start your packing – wherever you’re going, our packing tips for your holiday will help you make the most out of that suitcase space.
• let your neighbours know – they’ll be able to keep an eye on your property while you’re away.

Last minute tips

• take photos of your documents – having a copy of your passport, driving licence and bank cards will make it easier to get replacements if they go missing.
• charge your gadgets – make sure everything’s fully charged before you head to the airport.
• water your plants – give them their last drink and set up any watering systems you might have, including asking a neighbour.
• check your holiday weather – whether it’s sunglasses and shorts weather or you need a jumper, make sure you’re ready for when you step off the plane.

Whether you’re about to book or you’ve already got your holiday sorted, Co-op Insurance can help you with the travel insurance. Visit our website to find out more about our cover and to get a quote.