Item

Detail

Airport security

Find out the latest advice from the Department of Transport. Full details on preparing are available at www.dft.gov.uk/airportsecurity (new window).

Check out any travel risks

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) provides great advice on your destination and on preparing to go abroad. Visit their website www.fco.gov.uk/travel (new window) or call 0870 606 0290

Travel insurance

Check that it gives you all the cover you need.

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC

If you're travelling to the EU this card entitles you to reduced cost, sometimes free, medical treatment. This should not be used as a substitute for your travel insurance. Find out more at www.dh.gov.uk (new window).

Vaccinations

Your destination may carry a risk of malaria, typhoid, cholera or rabies, so visit the FCO website, www.fco.gov.uk/travel (new window), to find out more. You should do this at least six weeks before you go.

Valid passport

Remember, it needs to be valid, in good condition and contain the necessary visas.

Pets

Make provisions for pets well in advance of your holiday. Kennels and Catteries can get booked up well in advance especially during the summer months.

Make photocopies

Photocopy your passport and insurance policy. Then make notes of 24-hour emergency numbers, together with credit card and ticket details. And leave your copies and notes, plus your itinerary and contact details, with family and friends.

Money

Make sure you have enough for your trip. You should even take some back up funds in traveller's cheques, sterling or US dollars.

Keep your home safe

Ask neighbours or your local Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator to keep an eye on your home for you. Lock all windows and doors, garages and sheds before you go and remember to set the burglar alarm if you have one. Consider using a time-switch to turn on some lights at night.

Guide book(s)

Pick up a good guide book and get to know your destination. It's always a good idea to find out about local laws and customs.