October half term is almost here and many people are planning a break either at home in the UK or abroad to catch some winter sun before Christmas is upon us.
If, like me, it has been many months since you have travelled away from home for an extended period of time there are a number of points you should consider as you make your final arrangements for that well-earned break. The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in additional requirements in respect of proof of vaccinations or negative Covid-19 tests. In addition, Brexit has also resulted in changes to documentary requirements that many may not be aware of as leisure travel to Europe has been restricted for some considerable amount of time.
Holidays, and the break from daily life that they bring, are important for all of us. Most of the time everything goes smoothly but on occasion, things can go awry. This can be for any number of reasons, the majority of which may be outside of your control, such as accidents caused by a third party which result in significant injury.
Here are some top tips to consider as you finalise your getaway plans:
- If you are travelling abroad, check that your passports are valid and have the requisite remaining validity period as rules have changed since Brexit Passport rules for travel to Europe – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
- Is your EHIC up to date? If not, you can apply online for an updated EHIC or the new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). Applications can be made on the NHS website for free Applying for healthcare cover abroad (GHIC and EHIC) – NHS (www.nhs.uk) An EHIC is not a replacement for travel insurance which brings me onto the next point;
- Make sure that you have travel insurance in place that is sufficient to cover the country or countries you will be visiting and the activities you intend to undertake. If you are planning an adventure or activity break, does your policy cover everything or do you require specialist insurance?
- Bear in mind that if you are staying in the UK, many travel policies will provide cover if you are away from home in the UK for a certain number of nights;
- Check the level of cover in respect of valuable items and the single item limit. The value of multiple electronic items such as tablets, phones and electronic reading devices can quickly mount up and exceed the limit on your policy.
- Check the requirements in respect of proof of Covid vaccination or testing both in your destination country and on your return to the UK. Up to date information is available on the FCDO website Foreign travel advice – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk). If you are staying at home, check requirements in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland as they continue to differ.
- If you are driving to the continent, since 28 September 2021 the letters GB are no longer valid and you will be required to display the letters UK. This can be incorporated into the number plate or by means of a separate sticker which is inexpensive to purchase.
By ensuring you have the requisite documentation and travel insurance in place, if you do need to call upon your insurer matters should be relatively straightforward.
In the unfortunate event that you’re injured whilst on holiday, either in the UK or abroad, because of an accident that was not your fault we will be happy to speak with you and advise how we may be able to assist.
