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10 things
you MUST remember before jetting off on holiday
Planning
your next holiday can be a very exciting time, but there is so much to
think about beyond dreaming of lying on the beach, or hiking through the
jungle.
Whatever
your dream destination may be, someone needs to take responsibility for
the “boring bits!” If you are the one tasked with the, how shall we put
it, more important items like planning and admin, here are some top tips
for things to remember so you can all have a great time. Your family with
thank you for it!
1. Travel
Advice
Wherever
you are heading off to, check online for the latest travel advice for your
destination. This is particularly important if you are travelling
somewhere exotic or where there are certain areas which should be avoided.
Make sure that you check this regularly in the days leading up to your
departure so that you know what to expect on arrival.
2. Insurance
Remarkably,
a quarter of all holidaymakers travel without travel insurance! Not
having sufficient insurance can land you with incredibly expensive medical
bills if something happens whilst you are away. Ensure you have taken
out adequate travel insurance and read the small print of any policy carefully
to ensure you are properly covered for your time abroad. The Telegraph
has a great section on finding
the right insurance before you travel.
3. Plan
the Details
Ensure
that you have properly planned transport to and from the airports and that
if you need to arrange transfers at either end, this is done well in advance
of your arrival. No one likes to get off a night flight only to find
there are no taxis waiting!
4. Using
Your Mobile
Using
your phone when abroad can be costly so make sure you get the right plan
and coverage. Even if you just plan to use your mobile to let family
and friends know that you have arrived safely, make sure that you plan
in advance. You can find guidance for roaming when abroad from a number
of different sources, so read up about it to make sure that you don’t cost
yourself money you could have avoided spending! There are loads of networks
that provide great deals.
5.
Money
Make sure
that you take enough money to cover the things you want to do, and have
access to some emergency funds just in case. Also, don’t forget to take
the right currency (many people forget!)
6. Local
Laws & Customs
Research
local laws and customs before you go away. Pleading ignorance won’t
help you if you get into any kind of trouble whilst you are away!
7. Language
Learn
a little bit of the language, you will be surprised how impressed local
people will be and you never know. Hey, you might find you have unexpected
linguistic talents! If you are going somewhere which is slightly
off the beaten track knowing a few handy phrases can also be incredibly
helpful. Don’t assume that everyone can speak English! The BBC have
some great online
language testers for you to try.
8. Luggage
Weigh
your luggage before you get to the airport. Who wants to be landed
with extra charges, or have to remove unnecessary items from their suitcase
in the middle of the airport?
9. Passport
& Documents
Copy or
scan your important documents such as your passport. That way, if
it gets misplaced or stolen you have access to an electronic copy which
will help with returning home.
10. Local
Area
It’s a
good idea to have a quick look at the local areas, especially if you plan
to take part in any excursions. Booking ahead can result in a better
deal for you, and also means that you can plan out your holiday so you
are making the most of your time away.
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