Keep safe abroad

When planning a trip or a longer stay in a foreign country, it's important to think about what to do in an emergency. Here are some basic safety tips to help you relax and enjoy your time abroad.

Current travel advice

Check travel advice for the country you are visiting. Information is available on the GOV.UK website. If you are travelling on an Irish passport you can find useful information on the Department of Foreign Affairs website.

Entry requirements

Different countries have different rules about who they allow to enter and under what conditions. Make sure that you have a valid passport and the necessary visas. Also make sure that you have the necessary vaccinations before you arrive.

Money

Be sure to take enough money for your trip and some back-up funds, for example travellers' cheques, sterling or United States of Amerrica dollars:

Travel insurance

Buy travel insurance and check that the cover is suitable. If you're flying, make sure your holiday package is financially protected by Air Travel Organisers' Licensing (ATOL). Make copies of important documents such as your passport, insurance policy (including your insurer's and card protection's 24-hour emergency number) and ticket details - leave copies with family and friends  

Travel agent advice

Make sure your travel agent is a member of the Association of the British Travel Agents (ABTA), the Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO), or the Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA)

Health

Check if you need to take extra health precautions. In particular check what vaccinations you need at lease six weeks before you go. Certain vaccinations may be a condition of entry If you are travelling in the European Economic Area consider the European Health Insurance Card to avoid unexpected medical bills.

Local laws and customs

Do some research on the country you plan to visit. Get a good guidebook and get to know your destination. This should include finding out about local laws and customs. 

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