Tommy has over 15 years experience within the insurance industry, and his primary focus is helping travellers find the right cover for their medical conditions.
Ok, so your holidays are booked. You’ve packed the sun cream and the flip-flops and are now ready for the beach. But aside from your passport and travel documents, there are a few things you should also have prepared, should you need them in case of an emergency while you’re away.
First and Foremost: Travel Insurance
Having travel insurance is essential for your peace of mind while you’re away. It’s one of those things you hope you’ll never need to use, but if something unexpected happens – like losing your luggage, falling ill, or needing to cancel your trip – you’ll be hugely relieved to have it. Travel insurance can also cover emergencies like repatriation, stolen belongings, or sudden changes in travel plans that are beyond your control.
READ MORE: Do I Need Travel Insurance?
The best time to purchase travel insurance is as soon as you’ve booked your trip. By arranging it early, you’re protected for unforeseen circumstances that might arise before your holiday even begins, such as needing to cancel due to illness or other emergencies.
Buying travel insurance well in advance provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on enjoying the anticipation of your trip. However, even if you’ve left it a bit late, it’s better to secure cover closer to your departure date than to travel without it.
READ MORE: When Should I Buy Travel Insurance?
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Your Health and Medical Conditions
When planning any adventure or holiday, it’s essential to consider your health and any medical conditions you may have. Proper preparation can make all the difference in ensuring your trip is both safe and enjoyable. Remember, your well-being should always be a top priority.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions
Suppose you told your travel insurance provider about any health conditions you need cover for. In that case, it’s important to remember to contact your provider if your condition worsens, or if you are diagnosed with a new medical condition before your trip. They will need to have the most up-to-date information about your health to ensure you are covered. This is especially important if you’ve taken out an annual trip policy.
READ MORE: What Medical Conditions Do I Need to Declare?
Travel Vaccinations
At around 12 weeks before you’re due to leave, it is worth checking the latest health advice on the country you are due to travel to from the Travel Health Pro. If you’re going a little further afield and need vaccines when entering the country, then check out the NHS website to get some more information on this and see what vaccines you will need and when.
READ MORE: What Vaccines Do You Need for Travelling Abroad?
Medication and Travel
If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, it’s best to contact your GP to see if there are any specific measures you will need to take to ensure you have a safe trip. Make sure that if you take medication with you have enough to last the duration of your holiday.
READ MORE: Travelling with Medication
Medical ID's
Carrying a medical ID can be a crucial step in ensuring your safety while travelling, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition. A medical ID provides first responders with vital information about your health in case of an emergency, such as allergies, medications, or conditions like diabetes or epilepsy.
There are a variety of options available, ranging from bracelets and necklaces to digital solutions that store your details securely. Remember to update your medical ID regularly to reflect any changes in your condition or treatment plan. It’s a small accessory that could make a big difference in an emergency.
READ MORE: Why Do I Need a Medical ID?
Winter Sports and Cruise Holidays
Planning a Winter Sports or Cruise Holiday? It's important to know that these types of trips are usually not included in standard travel insurance policies. This means that if you’re heading off to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or a relaxing cruise, you’ll need to contact your insurance provider to add this specific protection for an additional fee.
Without this extra protection, you could be left vulnerable to unexpected costs from accidents, cancellations, or other incidents specific to these types of holidays. Make sure to review your policy carefully and arrange the right protection before your holiday, so you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind!
Adventure Sports
Fancy giving water skiing a try? Or even skydiving (you than me)! Adventure sports can make your holiday unforgettable, but it’s important to stay safe while enjoying the thrill. Our advice is to always ensure that any adventure or water sports activity you take part in is organised by a properly licensed and insured company. Do some research beforehand to check their credentials, read reviews, and, if possible, ask for recommendations from others who’ve used them.
Make sure you’re fully confident with the safety precautions in place and take the time to thoroughly understand any instructions or procedures provided by the operator. If you’re unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to ask questions—your safety comes first.
Also, remember to check your travel insurance documents to see what adventure sports are included in your policy. Some policies exclude high-risk activities, while others might require you to pay an additional premium for protection. Taking a few extra steps to prepare can ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience, no matter how daring your adventure!
Entry Requirements and Passports
Before you head off on your travels remember to check the entry requirements of your destination, especially if you’re travelling outside the EU. For example, if you’re heading to Australia to work and travel then you’ll need to get yourself a working visa. Each country is different, so check out the specifics here.
Don't forget, you may want to investigate obtaining a Global Health Insurance Card/European Health Insurance Card (GHIC/EHIC). Whilst these cards will not protect you as fully as travel insurance, they can still provide you with assistance should you need it.
READ MORE: GHIC, EHIC and Travel Insurance
Make sure your passport is valid, imagine arriving at the airport and realising it expired a few weeks ago. Also, remember that some countries require you to have a passport that is valid for 6 months after the date you travel. To make sure you don’t get caught out, have a look through the requirements for passport validity.
Remember to fill out the emergency contact details in the back of your passport, so if the worst happens and you have an accident then the government officials will know who to contact. Also, it’s always better to be safe, so make a note of your passport number and even take electronic and paper copies of it in case anything happens to the original.
Speak to Your Family and Friends
Tell your friends and family where and when you are going and be sure to provide them with all the important details. Share your contact information, insurance policy details, and a copy of your full itinerary, including addresses and key dates. This not only keeps them informed but also ensures you have a safety net in case something goes wrong.
If you happen to misplace your documents or face an emergency, your loved ones will have the information they need to assist you quickly. It’s a simple step that can bring peace of mind to both you and those who care about you while you’re away.
Your Mobile Phone
Your mobile phone is an essential travel companion, helping you stay connected, access important information, and capture precious memories. Here are some tips to help you protect your phone and make the most of it during your trip.
Calls, Texts and Roaming
It’s always a good idea to double-check with your mobile phone provider to see if you can use your phone abroad and to understand any potential charges. Since the UK left the EU, mobile phone operators are no longer required to offer surcharge-free roaming for UK customers travelling in the EU. This means that, if you plan to use your phone abroad without first confirming the details with your provider, you could end up being charged hefty fees for activities like making calls, sending texts, or using mobile data.
Many mobile providers now offer different options for roaming to help you avoid unexpected costs. For instance, some providers may allow you to amend your plan for a fee, adding roaming services that cover the region you’re travelling to. Others might offer a fixed daily fee, allowing you to use your phone abroad as you would at home for a set price per day of your trip.
It’s worth taking a moment to explore these options before you travel, as it could save you from returning home to an unexpectedly high phone bill. Additionally, if roaming costs seem too high, you might also consider purchasing a local prepaid SIM card or using Wi-Fi-based communication apps to stay connected while abroad.
Gadget Insurance
Remember, most travel insurance policies will not include protection for your electronic devices, such as mobile phones, laptops, or tablets, from accidental damage, loss, or theft.
As such, after checking your policy documents to see what’s covered, you may want to consider contacting your travel insurance provider to arrange for gadget cover to be included. More information on gadget insurance can be found here.
Research and Plan Your Trip
Planning a holiday is your chance to immerse yourself in new cultures, cuisines, and traditions. A well-planned trip can transform your journey into a collection of unforgettable memories.
Travel Guides
To make the most of your adventure, consider investing in a quality travel guide. These guides often uncover hidden gems, local favourites, and off-the-beaten-path attractions that might not appear in mainstream itineraries.
Travel guides also offer tips for navigating your destination like a local, from unique dining experiences to practical advice on transportation. Don’t overlook travel blogs and forums either—these resources provide honest reviews and insider recommendations. Whether it’s finding the best restaurants, discovering breathtaking viewpoints, or avoiding overcrowded beaches, a little research can go a long way in enhancing your trip.
Embracing Local Culture
Before you set off, take time to familiarise yourself with the culture of your destination. Customs, traditions, and social expectations can vary widely, especially regarding dress, behaviour, and communication. Being aware of these cultural nuances not only helps you avoid accidental disrespect but also enables you to connect more authentically with the local community.
It’s also crucial to educate yourself about local laws and regulations. Some countries enforce strict penalties for actions that might seem minor back home. Understanding these rules will help you stay safe and avoid any unintended trouble.
When capturing the beauty of your surroundings, be mindful of local sensitivities around photography and videography. Activities like taking photos or using binoculars can sometimes be misinterpreted, particularly near sensitive areas such as government buildings or military zones. Always check your surroundings and, if in doubt, ask for permission—especially when photographing people or culturally significant sites.
A Meaningful Adventure
With thoughtful preparation and cultural awareness, you can fully embrace the richness of your destination. Being mindful of local customs fosters positive interactions, helps you avoid unnecessary complications, and allows you to immerse yourself in the experiences that make travel so rewarding. By approaching your journey with respect and curiosity, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime.
Local Emergency Contact Numbers
Having access to local emergency contact numbers is essential when travelling. While exploring new destinations can be exciting, unexpected situations may arise that require quick action. Knowing who to call in an emergency gives you peace of mind and ensures you’re prepared to manage any challenges confidently and responsibly.
Your Travel Insurance Emergency Medical Assistance Line
When you purchase medical travel insurance, you will be provided with an emergency medical assistance phone number that’s crucial to keep handy while you’re traveling. This number is your lifeline in case of an unexpected medical emergency. Always carry it with you, as it provides direct access to 24/7 medical support, 365 days a year, no matter where you are in the world.
In the event of an emergency, this assistance team can help you access the medical treatment you need quickly and efficiently. They will ensure you receive the most appropriate care for your condition, guide you through the process, and consult with local medical providers on your behalf. This also includes confirming your insurance protection with the hospital, so you don’t have to worry about upfront costs or administrative hurdles during a stressful time.
Whether it’s a minor issue or a serious emergency, having this number on hand ensures peace of mind and swift action when you need it most.
READ MORE: Your Guide to Handling Holiday Illness & Accidents
Travelling to the EU?
Suppose you are in any EU member state, instead of dialling 999 as you would in this country to reach the emergency services such as the police, fire, or ambulance. In that case, you can dial 112 to be connected to the appropriate local emergency service. 112 is the number to reach the emergency services anywhere within the EU from a telephone or mobile in any EU member state. The European Commission created this universal emergency contact number to give easy access to people travelling within the European Union.
If you forget and accidentally dial 999 in any European country, then you will be automatically redirected to the European Emergency Services.
Travelling outside Europe?
If you’re going further afield here are some important emergency numbers for you to make a note of:
Australia - Medical, Police and Fire Emergency Assistance, dial 000.
New Zealand - Medical, Police and Fire Emergency Assistance, dial 111.
USA and Canada - Medical, Police and Fire Emergency Assistance, dial 911.
Emergency Contact Directory
If you are struggling to find the emergency contact number of your holiday destination, you can find it by using the GOV.UK directory. Click the below link, then all you need to do is search the country and then head to the 'Getting Help' section.
British Embassy or Consular
Make sure you find out where the nearest British Embassy is to your destination before you travel. Embassies can be incredibly useful if you find yourself in an emergency, such as losing your passport or needing other forms of official assistance. Knowing their location ahead of time means you’ll know exactly where to go if a problem arises, saving you time and stress during what could already be a challenging situation.
Another essential resource to have when you travel is the British Consular Assistance Team’s contact information. The Consular Service provides invaluable support for issues like replacing lost or stolen passports, helping you contact friends or family if you are hospitalised abroad, or offering guidance if you become a victim of crime. They are ready to assist British nationals in difficult situations. You can reach them at 020 7008 1500 (or +44 20 7008 1500 if calling from abroad).
Before you leave, make sure to save these numbers in your phone and keep a written copy in your luggage or wallet. We hope you’ll never need to use them, but it’s always better to be prepared for the unexpected while you’re enjoying your holiday. Stay safe and travel smart!
Specialist Cover
We only work with providers who specialise in covering pre-existing conditions.
Save Money
No discounts. No pressure. We’ll always show you the best prices from providers.
By taking a few simple steps to prepare before your trip, you can travel with greater confidence and peace of mind. Whether it’s knowing where to find your nearest embassy, having the right contact information saved, or planning for emergencies, these small actions can make all the difference if something doesn’t go as planned.
While we hope your travels are smooth and filled with wonderful experiences, being prepared for the unexpected ensures you’re ready for whatever comes your way. Remember, a little preparation can go a long way in keeping your holiday enjoyable and stress-free. Safe travels!
Frequently Asked Questions
You can visit our help centre on Claims which may help. However, if you need to make a claim, full details of what you need to do to make a claim will be detailed in the Policy Wording provided to you by your insurance provider.