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Insurance
Travel Insurance is ESSENTIAL. Ensure that you have adequate cover and that all sporting activities that you are likely to partake in are covered. There are many companies providing Travel Insurance and it is sensible to ‘shop around’ as premiums and benefits do vary. Visit our Links page for details of Companies that we believe offer good and competitively priced policies. Pay particular attention to the small print and remember to declare any pre-existing medical conditions. If you travel abroad more than once a year an annual policy may well work out cheaper.
3-4 months before leaving
PASSPORT AND VISAS
Check your passport expiry date. Some countries require that a passport is valid for a minimum of 6 months from the date of return to the UK. Existing stamps in your passport may prevent entry into certain countries. If in doubt contact the passport office tel:- 0870 521 0410. Some countries require a Visa – a stamp in your passport that gives you right of entry. These are issued by the Embassy. Your tour operator/travel agent should be able to give you the necessary advice.
IMMUNISATIONS AND MEDICATIONS
Visit your Doctors’ Surgery to check the health requirements for your destination and arrange immunisations.
Immunisations can be done through your Surgery, and whilst some are free on the NHS, there will be a charge for others. The charges made by Doctors’ Surgeries are usually less than those made by specialist Travel Health Centres. A visit to your G.P also ensures that you are not given anything contra-indicated, as your medical records can be checked. If you are on medication remember to get an adequate supply for the time you are away. It is advisable to carry with you, at all times, details of any medical condition for which you might need emergency treatment e.g. heart conditions, along with the name of the medication you are receiving.
DENTAL CHECK UP
If you are going to be away a long time or have concerns about your teeth, it is a good idea to have a check up. If you have crowns or fillings it could be sensible to take a Dental travel kit with you.
TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS
Decide how you will get to your departure point and, if appropriate, book Airport Parking and Overnight Accommodation.
HOME CARE
Remember to make arrangements for elderly relatives, pets and gardens!
2-4 weeks before leaving
SHOPPING
Apart from general holiday shopping remember, if travelling to hot countries, the possible need to purchase HEALTH products such as INSECT REPELLENTS, SUN PROTECTION, FIRST AID KITS and STERILE NEEDLE PACKS, DVT TRAVEL SOCKS, as well as Travel Accessory items.
MONEY
Decide what you will need and, to be on the safe side, take more rather than less money. Check on card validity dates and pin numbers if you intend withdrawing money from cash machines. Order travellers cheques and/or currency.
AIR TRAVEL
If you need assistance e.g. a wheelchair remember to book it. Book special diet meals.
CAR HIRE
Remember that you will need a Driving License if you plan to hire a car whilst abroad.
A useful and comprehensive car hire company Rhinocarhire.com may be of interest, having the benefit of worldwide coverage.
Rhino has more Car Hire Spain locations than most other websites. With competitive prices, typically starting at £9 per day Rhinocarhire offer many other extras.
Rhino offer a fully comprehensive insurance, unlimited mileage and breakdown assistance in the event or a problem with every rental. The insurance package covers liability insurance, a collision damage waiver and a vehicle theft waiver.
MOBILE PHONES
If you are taking a mobile phone abroad you should consult with your network provider as it may be necessary to pre arrange this service.
SECURITY
Let your neighbours know you are going to be away. If you have a burglar alarm, notify your key holders and give them contact details. Cancel the milkman and the papers. Make provisions for your mail.
INDEPENDENT TRAVELLERS
Photocopy all important documents e.g. Passport numbers, traveller’s cheques, bank cards, insurance documents etc and leave a set with a relative or friend. It is also a good idea to keep a set somewhere in your luggage when travelling.