Travel Tips and Holiday Advice

Before you travel

• Make sure you have the new European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if you are travelling to a European Union member country. The EHIC is free and has been introduced to replace the old E111 form. You can obtain the EHIC from www.ehic.org.uk, by calling 0845 605 0707, or fill in an application pack at the Post Office. The application process can take up to 21 days. The quickest way to receive a card is to apply online (delivery usually within 7 days).
• Make sure all passports or visas are up to date - take all documents with you, including your travel insurance details!
• Check to see if you require any vaccinations or health requirements for your trip. Make sure any previous vaccinations are still in date.
• Cancel the milk and newspapers while you're away and make sure all security measures you have available at home are in use (deadlocks on doors, window locks, intruder alarms and safes).
• Don't take large quantities of cash with you. Take travellers cheques and/or credit cards (make sure you have your emergency numbers with you to cancel the cards if necessary).
• Leave your valuable jewellery at home or conceal it while you are away - don't be an easy target for thieves or muggers. And, don't forget most travel insurance policies have single article limits.
• Leave enough time to travel to your port, airport or railway station remembering to check travel reports before you leave for road works or possible hold-ups. If you have pre-booked parking, transfers can add up to 45 minutes to your travelling time before you can check-in.
• Remember to check that your policy covers any hazardous activity or sport before you participate.

Whilst Travelling

• Never pack valuables, passports or money in 'checked-in' bags, keep them with you in hand luggage or on your person.
• Do not leave belongings unattended or with strangers at any time, especially at ports and stations.
• Never leave belongings unattended or on view in vehicles.

During your trip

• At your hotel, keep valuables and cash in a safe deposit box or in the hotel safe if available. Some hotels will allow you to book a safety deposit box in advance or will have them installed in bedrooms.
• Place your money into a money belt and wear this while you are out and about.
• Please remember that you must obtain a police report in the event of any loss or theft.
• Remember to check that your policy covers any hazardous activity or sport before you participate and that you have paid for the appropriate cover.