If you are travelling this summer in Europe or elsewhere in the world, here is a list of important items to think about before leaving home.
Holidays are not just about flights and hotel bookings, but many more costs that can add to the price of the trip.
Currency
When you are looking to exchange money, you should look at the best rates available and try to avoid purchasing currency at the airport, as they have a captive audience and will normally charge a higher commission than other providers. There are plenty of other options such as pre paid currency cards, or take a credit or debit card with you.
It is also a good idea to let your bank know that you are abroad, so they do not block your card, when you sue your card abroad.
Passport Renewal
Some countries in the world require that your passport must have at least 6 months validity. If you are travelling soon, you should check the expiry date of your passport. Last minute passport renewals cost British travelling abroad £14m in 2015. It now costs £72.50 to renew and adult passport. You will usually receive a replacement passport within three weeks.
Airport Parking
When you travel by plane, and you need to park you car for any length of time, you should book in advance to get the best deal. For example, if you turn up at Gatwick's South Terminal on the day you are travelling, then the cost for airport parking would be £360 or £45 per day. If however you plan ahead, you can save up to £239.00.
Airport Transfers
As well as the flight, you should consider how you plan to get to the airport. You should consider the amount of time it will take for you to get to and from the airport. Taxis are always available but you should check beforehand what they will charge to your final destination. You should also research if the hotel you are staying in has free airport transfers. This could save you money and time.
EHIC and Travel Insurance
You should purchase Travel Insurance before you leave your home and if possible well in advance of your holiday. Don't just rely on your European Health Insurance Card. This will provide you with emergency medical assistance in most European countries, but does not cover for example; Repatriation back to your home or Pre Existing Medical Conditions.
Insure Gadgets
Most Travel Insurance policies will provide cover for valuables, such as iPads and cameras, but there is a limit on the cover for single articles. Also it should be noted that most Travel Insurance policies do not cover Mobile Phones. You should check with your Home Contents Insurance or purchase a Travel Insurance policy that does cover Gadgets.
Check - in Early
Some airlines charge you for selecting a seat. If you are travelling as a family or group and you want to sit together, you might have to pay extra. Airlines have a policy of 'first come, first served', so if you check in early you have a better chance of being allocated seats together and not have to pay any extra.
Tourist Tax
Some countries charge a tourist tax which you might have to pay on your arrival or at your hotel. You should research this beforehand, so you are not left with an unexpected cost on arrival.
Mobile Roaming
European roaming charges are to be scrapped from 15th June 2017. If you are travelling outside of Europe, these charges might still be made and you should check with your Mobile Phone provider.
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