Jetting off abroad sometime soon? If so then lucky you! But amid the excitement of planning and preparing for your jollies, have you made sure you’ve packed everything you need?
Let’s face it, we’ve all arrived at our overseas hotel to discover we’ve forgotten to pack some of those holiday essentials. If you’re lucky it’s just your hairbrush or those favourite flip-flops you’ve left behind, but in some situations your oversight might have slightly more serious consequences.
Here we’ve put together a list of things you need to remember before you make your trip to the airport, so get a checklist made and be sure to tick them off before you travel.
Passport And Travel Documents
It may sound obvious, but every year lots of people leave their passport behind as they make their mad dash to the airport. So be sure to check that your passport is packed in your bag or case, then check again!
Another thing to remember is the passport’s validity as the last thing you want to do is arrive at the airport, only to discover it’s expired!
Medications And Prescriptions
Prescription medications can be easily forgotten when making your travel preparations. Make sure to pack an adequate supply of your medications, along with a copy of your prescription.
It’s also wise to research whether your destination has any restrictions on specific medications as you might find some aren’t permitted in the country you’re travelling to.
Vaccinations
Have you made sure you’ve had your vaccinations? You wouldn’t believe how many travellers book holidays to exotic destinations and have no idea they’re supposed to be vaccinated before they travel.
That doesn’t mean every traveller needs to be vaccinated. Vaccination requirements depend completely on the destination you’re travelling to. But you should always check before you travel as arriving without the right jabs will often see you denied entry.
If you need vaccinations for your trip, contact our travel clinic.
Charger Cables And Adapters
Forgetting charger cables or adapters can be a major inconvenience, especially if you’re travelling abroad. So to avoid running out of battery on the other side of the world, be sure to have the right adapters and pack backup charging cables.
Travel Insurance Details
If you’ve purchased travel insurance, don’t forget to carry the policy details and contact information. In the event of emergencies, having this information can be crucial.
Travel-Sized Toiletries
If you’re travelling internationally, sadly you’ll be unable to take large bottles of shower gel, shampoo and toothpaste. And while many hotels provide basic toiletries, having your favourite toiletries can make your trip much more comfortable.
For added convenience and peace of mind, purchase miniature bottles or the small containers which allow you to take the products you know and love.
First Aid Kit
A small first aid kit containing essentials such as plasters, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes and any necessary prescription medications can be a lifesaver if you run into any minor issues while you’re away
Travel Itinerary And Maps
Granted, in this digital age where all our maps and travel plans are available at our fingertips, having physical copies of maps or itineraries isn’t quite so important. But what if your battery dies or your phone’s internet connection drops?
Being stuck in foreign land with no way to know where you’re going can be a daunting situation.Having a physical copy of these can protect you against this nightmare scenario, so consider getting them printed out just in case you encounter any unforeseen issues.
Travel Pillows And Comfort Items
Comfort can make or break a long journey. So if you’re taking a longhaul flight, travel pillows, blankets and comfort items like eye masks and earplugs can help you get better rest, helping you feel fresh when you arrive at your destination.
Local Currency And Cash Reserves
Again, modern technology has all but erased the need for carrying cash, in the UK at least. But if you’re travelling away on holiday and relying solely on bank cards or your smartphone wallet, it’s always beneficial to have some cash just in case you lose anything.
This is especially true in some destinations where cash is still the most common form of payment, so it might be wise to check this before you travel.
So those are the main things to remember when travelling abroad. If you’re jetting off anytime soon, be sure to include these items on your checklist to ensure your trip is as comfortable and hassle-free as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s best to start preparing at least six to eight weeks before you travel. This allows enough time to arrange travel vaccinations, obtain any required prescriptions, check passport validity, organise travel insurance and research any health risks at your destination.
Check whether you need travel vaccinations or malaria tablets for your destination, pack sufficient prescription medication, carry a basic first aid kit, and follow food, water and mosquito bite prevention advice where appropriate.
Ensure your passport is valid, check visa requirements, carry comprehensive travel insurance, keep copies of important documents, and have details of your accommodation, emergency contacts and any necessary vaccination certificates readily available.