We’ve reached another half-term, and that means busy times for us, as many of you have booked and plan to travel abroad for some much-needed family time, rest, and recharge! Travelling abroad with your family means making memories that last a lifetime; however, it requires careful planning and organisation. Here are our top tips to help you through the entire process:
1. Choosing Your Destination
Consider location: Transfer times, weather and best travel seasons. Many places to shine as we head into our winter months!
Consider family interests: Pick somewhere with activities for all ages (museums, parks, beaches, etc.).
Check travel advisories: Be sure to check the government’s travel advisory website for safety updates.
2. Check Passport and Visa Requirements
Passports: Locate and be sure that every family member has a valid passport (including infants). Your passport must show at least 6 months’ validity beyond your return date.
Visas: Do the research to see if your destination requires a visa for your nationality.
Get Paperwork Organised: Arrange and print off all travel documents and make a note of baggage allowance, flight times, airport driving times etc
3. Health and Safety Preparations
Vaccinations: Check if any immunisation or health certificates are required.
Travel insurance: Book your family travel insurance to cover any medical emergencies, cancellations or lost luggage.
Medications: Check you have enough stock of your prescription medicines.
4. Plan Itinerary and Accommodation
Book your holiday early: The cost of travel changes dramatically according to the seasons, school holidays and demand! Look for family discounts or child-friendly airlines and book as soon as you can to avoid any price hikes.
Airport Parking Options: There are several ways to park your car, some are convenient and fast, others are budget-friendly and accessible. Do your research and opt for a parking product that will make life easier for you.
Accommodation: Opt for family-friendly hotels or serviced apartments with kitchens or laundry facilities.
Plan activities: Balance sightseeing with rest days to avoid fatigue, especially for children.
5. Budgeting and Currency
Keep on top of the costs: Include flights, airport parking, hotels, meals, attractions, transport, and activities.
Currency: Look into how you are going to pay, is it best to exchange some money before you travel? And what payment options (card + cash) to carry safely?
Notify your bank: Prevent card freezes abroad.
Stay connected: Consider the cost of roaming or think about getting a local SIM card.
6. Packing
Travel light but consider how you are holidaying: Think about essentials like clothes, toiletries, documents, chargers, and entertainment.
Carry-on essentials: Passports, tickets, snacks, wipes, a change of clothes, and any valuables.
Check baggage rules: What have you booked versus the airline’s weight limits and restricted items?
7. At the Airport and During Travel
Arrive early: Give extra time for check-in, especially when travelling with children.
Keep documents handy: Use a travel wallet or folder to keep your passports and boarding passes together.
During flight: Bring entertainment and comfort items (books, toys, neck pillows).
8. On Arrival
Go through immigration and customs: Present all necessary documents (passports, visas, return tickets).
Transport: Arrange airport pickup or local transport in advance.
9. During Your Stay
Follow local laws and customs: Respect cultural differences.
Stay safe: Keep copies of important documents and be aware of your surroundings.
Emergency contacts: Know the location of your country’s embassy and local emergency numbers.
10. Returning Home
Check departure timings: Plan your transfer back to the airport and be mindful of time differences.
Declare items: Follow customs rules for goods brought back.
Airport Parking: Your parking provider should have an eye on your arrival times and therefore they will get your car ready for you as you land.
Take it easy driving home, travelling is tiring and you may need to plan in some breaks for the journey.
Above all, enjoy your rest, make the best memories with your families and recharge your batteries ready for the next term that is incoming.