The peace of mind checklist for your next venture abroad

Experiencing a whole new culture abroad is one of life’s greatest pleasures. But, there are some precautions you should take to keep you happy and safe before you leave for the airport. Here’s a peace of mind checklist of the things many people forget to sort before they venture abroad.

Travel insurance

Whether you’re travelling to Spain, Thailand or Turkey, it’s important that you have the right amount of coverage. Travel insurance is an extremely important thing to have if you’re venturing abroad as it can save you thousands if you were to even fall ill or get injured.

European breakdown cover

If you don’t like to fly or want to experience Europe on the road, you’ll need specific European breakdown cover. You don’t want to get caught stranded, especially in an unknown location where you don’t speak the local language. This type of cover can ensure you’re safe if you should breakdown.

Safety equipment for your car

As well as breakdown insurance, you may need to pack mandatory safety equipment if you’re travelling by car to Europe. For example in France, you’ll need a personal breathalyser, high-vis and warning triangle. This comprehensive RAC guide on travelling around Europe round up what to pack in your car for your road trip.

Medical jabs

Depending on where you’re venturing too, you may need a series of medical jabs to keep you safe from diseases that are prevalent in the local area. These are usually long-haul destinations such as Sri Lanka, India and Africa. Check with your GP before you plan your journey to see what precautions you should take.

Liquid restrictions for flying

If you have travelled by plane before, you’re bound to have come across the restricted liquid rules. These restrictions only apply to your hand luggage so before you check-in your luggage, make sure all liquids over 50 ml are packed away in your case.

Photocopy of your passport

It’s a good idea to take a photocopy of your passport with you, especially if you’re touring a country for a long period of time. If you were to ever lose your passport, you still have your identification numbers on the photocopy so getting a new one will be simpler at the embassy.

Call your bank

Another good tip is to let your bank know you’re going away. This is to ensure your debit and credit cards are not shut down unexpectedly when you’re away due to your bank mistaking your purchases abroad for fraudulent transactions.

Don’t post your schedule online

Try to refrain from posting on social media announcing that you and your whole family are about the go on holiday for a week. If this information is seen by the wrong people, you’re essentially telling them that your home will be unoccupied, putting your valuables at risk.

Use timers on your lights

Another tip to reduce the risk of a burglary is to use security gadgets and smart timers on lights and on the radio or television to fabricate the illusion of someone being in. It’s also a good idea to ask a trusted neighbour to go round the house to double check that everything is in order and to collect your mail when you’re away.

Ensure you know the local culture

Research the local tipping, culture and customs of the destination you’re travelling to. If you’re planning on visiting religious monuments such as temples in Asia, you may need to pack appropriate clothing. This way you’ll be well prepared and a respected traveller abroad.

With everything on this checklist ticked off, you can have an incredible holiday without worry. Do you have any more tips?