Summer – so close, you can almost taste it! The kids are chomping at the bit to get away from their books and you’re no doubt looking forward to a bit of quality family time. But before you get too carried away with excitement, now is a good moment to get prepared. Whether you’re venturing off to far-flung climes or sticking closer to home, the prepared parent makes a well-organised checklist! Let’s dive into our top tips to keep your summer running smoothly – whatever the weather!
Pick the perfect destination
Start by researching all the potential destinations that are within your budget. Be sure to bear in mind the interests and preferences of all family members – no one wants a stroppy teenager! Is there a pool, a kids club or other activities within walking distance, or will you need to hire a car? If so, this will need to be included in your holiday budget. If you’re travelling with young children, what is the baggage allowance with different flight providers for essential kit like buggies and car seats? Time zones are also worth bearing in mind when you consider the possible duration of your getaway.
Book your travel and accommodation early
Whether you’ll be booking planes, trains or automobiles, it pays to book early to get the best deals. This will also help ensure you get the preferred dates for your break.
If you’re booking a family getaway, you’ll need family-friendly accommodation with convenient amenities like kitchenettes: these tend to be snapped up by the early birds. Once everything is booked, double-check all the details and cross-reference check-in/check-out times against your travel booking. Make sure to save your confirmations in a dedicated travel folder or app.
Prepare your travel documents
Ensure that all your passports are valid for at least six months before your travel dates. You should also work out if visas are required for your destination and, if so, get your application in well in advance.
The height of the pandemic may be behind us, but it is still a good idea to keep copies of your COVID-19 vaccination certificates. If you have any other health needs or vital prescriptions, do not leave it until the last minute to check if you are allowed to carry those medicines to your destination.
Of course, the savvy traveller never leaves home without comprehensive travel insurance. Cherry Godfrey offers various options:
· Single Trip Cover: Ideal for one-off holidays.
· Annual Travel Insurance: Perfect for frequent travellers.
· Bespoke Travel Insurance: Tailored to specific needs.
Our policies include COVID-19 coverage for cancellations and additional expenses due to isolation requirements.
Why Cherry Godfrey Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is a critical part of planning your holiday, providing peace of mind against unexpected events. Cherry Godfrey’s travel insurance plans include:
· Protection against cancellations if you need to isolate before departure or additional expenses if you need to quarantine while away.
· Comprehensive coverage should you incur any medical expenses, trip cancellations and more.
Pack only what you need
Don’t be tempted to bring the kitchen sink! Create a packing list of essentials like clothes, toiletries, medications, and chargers. Consider the weather you want – sunscreen, hats, swimwear- but also the weather you may not – wet weather gear, a jumper for when the sun goes down! Make sure that entertainment for the whole family is within easy reach – keep that iPad charged!
Protect your home
Opportunists may work out that you’ve gone away and try to help themselves to your stuff! Consider asking a friend or neighbour to check in while you’re away or installing timers on lights for added security.
There is also no point in paying out on utilities that you’re not using, so make sure to turn off any unnecessary appliances.
Financial Preparation
The airport will not offer the best exchange rate on currency, so look to exchange some funds or top up a post office travel money card before you leave. Make a point of setting your budget in the calm before a storm of a holiday - before the sangria starts flowing! Include meals, activities and account for emergencies as well.
Travel Day!
As any parent knows, travelling with children adds a lot of extra time on to your journey! Allow extra time for each leg – don’t let a badly timed loo break make you miss your flight! Fortunately, many airlines will give priority boarding to children under three. Make sure that you have thought of everything for their in-transit comfort – from snacks and water to pillows and blankets should they decide to take a nap.
Stay Connected
Data roaming charges can quickly make a nasty dent in your holiday budget. Check your provider’s roaming policies and investigate purchasing an additional international plan if necessary.
It can be tempting to throw your phone in a drawer once the “Out of Office” goes on, but budgeting apps can be useful in terms of helping you keep track of your spending.
With this checklist, you’re all set for a summer holiday of a lifetime! Enjoy the family fun and the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re fully prepared!
For personalised advice or to purchase a travel insurance policy, submit a callback request or pop in for a chat with one of our friendly, expert team members. If you’re aged 65 or over or have medical conditions, we can provide an instant quote.
