Going on holiday shouldn’t be stressful, and if you get everything sorted out and arranged in good time, it isn’t stressful in the least! Worry and panic sets in when you’re not organised, so make sure you do this ahead of time, and you can start holiday mode much sooner!
If you’re not a seasoned traveller, or you simply have no clue, here are the things you need to consider extras-wise, ideally at the time you book your holiday.
Getting to the airport
This is easily forgotten, simply because you’re distracted with the flight business that you forget to plan how you’re getting to the terminal door! I personally always drive myself to the airport, and book airport parking, meaning I save money when compared to public transport, and I can organise my day myself, without having to rely on anyone else. This is a service that is generally available nationwide, including fantastic facilities for the largest airports including Heathrow terminal 5 parking, so nobody misses out. Book your spot as soon as you book your holiday, and you can forget about it until travel day comes around.
Insurance
This is a step you should never miss out, and to save you the hassle of having to remember, why not look into purchasing a yearly multi-trip policy? You will probably save money this way, and you don’t have to buy a single-trip policy every time you go away. Remember to declare any pre-existing medical conditions, and check it covers you for the area of the world you’re visiting, then you’re good to go!
Is your passport valid?
Because passports are valid for ten years, we get it renewed and then forget about it, because ten years is a long time, right? Well yes it is, but ten years also passes fast when you’re not aware of it! When you book your holiday, check when your renewal date it is, and if you will have less than six months validity on it from the date you return from your holiday, get it renewed well ahead of time!
Do you need a visa?
You might need one, you might not, but always check! Again, do this when you’re booking because if you have to apply in a more formal manner, this can take time, especially during busy periods.
Check names and dates of birth
When you receive your booking documentation, be it by post or by email, double check spellings of everyone in your party and dates of birth, plus your departure and arrival dates. If there are any discrepancies, tell your company immediately. If everything is fine, print it all out and put it somewhere safe, ready to take with you.
You obviously need to find out whether you need any vaccinations or additional medications, tell your bank you’re going away if you’re planning on using your cards abroad, and remember to turn the gas off, but you can do this nearer the time, without having to worry about it at the time of booking.
Remember the steps above and you will be more than instantly organised!
Ferdz Decena is an award-winning travel photographer, writer and blogger. His works has found print in publications such as Singapore Airlines’s Silver Kris, Philippine Airlines’ Mabuhay, Cebu Pacific’s Smile and Seair InFlight. He has also lent his expertise to various organizations like the Oceana Philippines, Lopez Group Foundation, Save the Children and World Vision, contributing quality images for their marketing materials.
