Useful Travel Information
Everything you need to know for a smooth and stress-free journey
Passports & Visas
Essential documentation for international travel
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned return date
At least 2 consecutive blank pages for stamps (some countries require more)
No torn pages, water damage, or unauthorised markings
Name on passport must match your booking and airline tickets exactly
UK passport holders now need to ensure their passport follows post-Brexit rules when travelling to the EU. Check gov.uk for details.
Visa Information
Visa requirements vary significantly by destination and your nationality. It is your responsibility to obtain the correct visa before travel.
Many countries allow UK citizens visa-free entry for tourism (typically 30-90 days)
Some destinations issue visas at the airport upon arrival (fee usually required)
Electronic travel authorisation must be obtained online before departure (e.g., USA ESTA, Canada eTA, India eVisa)
Requires application to embassy/consulate in advance (can take weeks)
Your Responsibility
It is your responsibility to ensure you have valid travel documents. We cannot accept liability if you are refused boarding or entry due to incorrect documentation. Please check requirements well in advance of your departure date.
Travel Insurance
Essential protection for your journey
What Should Be Covered
Important Considerations
You must declare all medical conditions to your insurer. Failure to do so will invalidate your policy.
If your trip includes activities like skiing, diving, or trekking, ensure these are covered. Standard policies may exclude them.
Cruise holidays require specific cover including missed port departures and cabin confinement.
Travellers over 65 may need specialist policies with higher medical cover limits.
Your insurance may be invalid if travelling to regions where the FCDO advises against travel.
We can arrange comprehensive travel insurance tailored to your trip.
Get a QuoteHealth & Safety
Staying healthy and safe whilst travelling
Vaccinations
Consult your GP or travel clinic 8 weeks before departure. Some vaccines require multiple doses over several weeks.
Medical Preparations
Take necessary precautions to stay healthy throughout your trip.
Safety Tips
Stay safe and aware whilst travelling abroad.
Check FCDO Travel Advice
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides up-to-date travel advice for every country, including:
- Safety and security information
- Entry requirements and visa details
- Health risks and vaccination recommendations
- Local laws and customs
- Natural disaster risks
Always check FCDO advice before booking and again before travelling. If the FCDO advises against travel, your insurance may be invalid.
Travel Documents
What you need to take with you
Tickets & Confirmation
- Flight e-tickets/boarding passes
- Hotel/accommodation vouchers
- Transfer vouchers
- Cruise tickets
- Tour/excursion confirmations
Insurance & Protection
- Travel insurance policy & certificate
- Emergency assistance numbers
- ATOL certificate (if applicable)
- GHIC/EHIC card (for Europe)
Identification
- Passport (with visa if required)
- Photo ID (driving licence)
- Passport-size photos (spare)
- Marriage certificate (if name differs)
Financial
- Credit/debit cards
- Bank contact numbers
- Foreign currency
- Travel money card
Medical
- Prescription medications
- Doctor's letter (if carrying meds)
- Vaccination certificates
- Blood type information
Contact Information
- Emergency contact details
- Hotel addresses & phone numbers
- Local embassy contact
- Tour operator contact details
Email yourself scanned copies of all important documents and save them to your phone. Also keep physical photocopies separate from originals. If documents are lost or stolen, having copies will make replacement much easier.
Packing Tips
What to pack and luggage guidelines
Essential Packing Checklist
Personal Care
Clothing
Electronics
Travel Accessories
Luggage Guidelines
Check airline limits (usually 10kg, 56x45x25cm)
Typically 20-23kg, varies by airline
Check restrictions before packing
- Roll clothes to save space
- Wear heaviest items whilst travelling
- Pack essentials in carry-on
- Leave room for souvenirs
Liquid Restrictions
For carry-on luggage: Liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of 100ml or less, all fitting in a single, transparent, resealable 1-litre plastic bag. This includes toiletries, drinks, and cosmetics.
Exceptions: Medications, baby food, and special dietary requirements (carry proof if needed).
Airport Guide
Making your journey through the airport smooth
Check-In
Arrive 3 hours before international flights, 2 hours for domestic.
- Online check-in (24-48hrs before)
- Print/download boarding pass
- Drop bags if needed
Security
Prepare for security screening to speed up the process.
- Remove laptops & liquids
- Take off belts & jackets
- Empty pockets
- Have boarding pass ready
Departure Lounge
Wait comfortably before your flight.
- Check departure boards
- Note your gate number
- Board when called
- Keep documents handy
Boarding
Final steps before your flight.
- Listen for announcements
- Have boarding pass & passport ready
- Board by zone/group
- Stow carry-on safely
Gates can close 20-30 minutes before departure. Don't leave it too late!
Most airports offer free WiFi. Download your airline's app for updates.
Airport rates are usually poor. Use ATMs at your destination instead.
Prices are inflated. Consider eating before security or bringing snacks.
Fast Track & Lounges
Many airports offer premium services to enhance your experience:
Skip the queues and get through security faster. Can be booked in advance or purchased at the airport.
Comfortable seating, complimentary food/drinks, WiFi, and quiet spaces. Access via membership, credit cards, or day passes.
Money & Currency
Managing your finances abroad
Payment Methods
- Carry at least two different cards
- Note emergency contact numbers
- Enable contactless for convenience
- Always choose to pay in local currency (avoid dynamic conversion)
Currency Exchange
- Local ATMs abroad (check your bank's fees)
- Online currency services (order in advance)
- Post Office (competitive rates, no commission)
- Airport currency exchanges (poor rates)
- Hotel currency exchange (very expensive)
- Tourist area exchange bureaus
- Notify your bank of travel dates
- Check daily ATM withdrawal limits
- Know your PIN numbers
- Set up online banking access
- Take note of exchange rates
- Use ATMs in well-lit, secure locations
- Prefer bank ATMs over standalone machines
- Check for card skimming devices
- Cover keypad when entering PIN
- Research typical costs at destination
- Factor in gratuities and tips
- Set a daily spending limit
- Keep receipts for records
- Don't carry all cash in one place
- Use hotel safe for excess cash
- Keep cards separate from wallet
- Shield PIN when entering
Emergency Contacts
Important numbers for your trip
Tour Operator
Available for emergencies whilst you're travelling
Travel Insurance
- Medical emergencies
- Lost/stolen belongings
- Travel disruptions
- Need to cancel/curtail trip
Can assist with lost passports, emergencies, and legal issues
Find Your Embassy →Call local emergency number (varies by country)
Contact your bank immediately
- Visa: +44 800 891 725
- Mastercard: +44 800 964 767
- Amex: +44 1273 696 933
Useful Travel Apps
Download these before you travel:
Still have questions?
Get in touch with us and speak to one of our travel experts.