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As the peak summer season approaches, ABTA – The Travel Association, is urging vacationers to use its travel checklist to ensure they are fully prepared for their next trips.

This comprehensive eight-step guide includes checking the Foreign Office travel advice for your destination, securing comprehensive travel insurance, complying with current airport security rules regarding liquids and laptops and confirming the validity of your passport for your travel dates.

ABTA Communications Director Graeme Buck said:

“Making the final preparations for your holiday can be part of the excitement of getting away, but it can also start to feel like you’ve forgotten to do something really important. That’s why we’ve put together our travel checklist – following eight easy steps Make sure your holiday preparations are as stress-free as possible this summer!

“If you haven’t booked a summer holiday yet but would like to, an ABTA travel agent or tour operator is the best place to help you. They specialize in helping you get a late deal, as they can get better prices and a wider selection of trips compared to booking independently.”

Here’s what ABTA’s travel checklist advises:

1. Consult the latest Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office travel advice for your destination.
2. Make sure your passport is valid for the duration of your travel and renew it if necessary. For EU travel (except Ireland), passports must be issued within the last ten years and be valid for at least three months after your intended departure date from the EU.
3. Get comprehensive travel insurance that meets your specific needs, including planned activities and any pre-existing health conditions.
4. If you don’t have a valid GHIC, apply at NHS.uk at no cost. This card gives you access to essential medical care in the EU, Switzerland, Montenegro, Channel Islands and Australia.
5. Familiarize yourself with EU travel regulations regarding prohibited items, documents required for driving or traveling with pets, and possible roaming charges depending on your mobile network.
6. Follow established rules for carrying liquids and electronic devices in your hand luggage at the airport to prevent travel delays.
7. Prepare your travel finances by considering the various options for using cash and cards abroad. Make sure you have enough money for initial transportation and small purchases.
8. Make safety a priority to make your trip memorable for the right reasons. When engaging in activities such as swimming, follow safety precautions, pay attention to local warning signs and always supervise children near water. ABTA offers a number of tips to help you stay safe while enjoying your holiday.