Family Travel Tips

If you’re planning a trip abroad this May half term or the school summer holidays we have some tips to help you plan your trip for a smooth getaway.

Research and create an itinerary

It’s always best to do your research before travelling to a destination, it can help you find family friendly activities, attractions, or restaurants that will cater to everyone’s tastes. If you’re going on a multi-generational holiday then make sure Granny or Grandad want to be involved in all the activities or just a few of them. Try to factor in activities that the whole family can enjoy.

In your itinerary always allow for some down time. You’ll always want to see as much as you can whilst away, however travelling can be tiring especially in a warm climate or if you’re travelling further afield you may experience jet lag, so always allow for relaxing such as a day at the beach or by the pool.

When planning your trip get the kids involved in the itinerary planning, this will get them excited about your upcoming adventure.

Check destination requirements

Before your holiday be sure to read the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) travel advice for the destination you’re visiting, check if there’s any entry requirements and the passport validity rules.

Make sure you have a valid Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) / European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). These cards provide low-cost or free access to medically necessary state healthcare in 27 EU countries, Switzerland, Montenegro, the Channel Islands, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Australia and St Helena, Tristan and Ascension. The GHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance, as it will not cover treatment in private clinics nor will it cover repatriation costs.

If you need to take prescribed medication on holiday, ensure the packaging has the original doctor’s label with the patient's name on it. Ask your GP for a letter to take with you if you have a lot of medication. Check on the FCDO’s website for information on your destination as some countries have restrictions on certain medication.

Make sure you take out family travel insurance

Make sure you take out comprehensive travel insurance that covers your trip. Always get your travel insurance as soon as you book your holiday as this will cover you for any cancellations. Read your policy carefully and if you’re planning any activities or have any pre-existing medical conditions it’s important to make sure your policy covers your needs. The ABTA Travel Insurance policy is clear and easy to understand, however should you need to speak to anyone whilst you’re abroad, there is also access to an online English-speaking doctor via the Dr Please app.

How much money should you take on holiday?

Before you travel it’s a good idea to set a budget for your holiday, be realistic as this will help you stick to it. Planning your itinerary can help you organise and make reservations and advanced bookings for attractions and transport which can save you money. Also make sure you check if there are any deals or days when museums are free to visit whilst you’re there.

During the summer months there are lots of festivals and events that take place in many countries which are free and a great way to experience the local culture.

If you’ve booked a package holiday find out what’s included, for example, does it include transfers? What’s your luggage allowance on the airline? Which meals are included? Will Wi-Fi at the hotel cost extra? The more planning you can do beforehand means you won’t be surprised by extra charges you hadn’t accounted for.

Taking cash will help you stick to your budget, avoiding ATM and bank fees, which can be high depending on your card provider. You can get a better rate on foreign currency by getting your travel money before you leave the UK.

Now all the planning and preparation has been done, all you need to do is enjoy your holiday!

For more information on having a safe and healthy holidays in the sun visit: https://www.abta.com/tips-and-advice/staying-safe-on-holiday/safe-and-healthy-holidays-sun