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
COVID-19 - guidance for Northern Ireland residents who are either travelling overseas or returning to NI from abroad: Coronavirus (COVID-19): 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 one of the following organisations:
- Association of the British Travel Agents (ABTA)
- Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO)
- Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA)
Health
Check if you need to take extra health precautions. In particular check what vaccinations you need and when you you need to take them before you go.
Certain vaccinations may be a condition of entry.
If you are travelling in Europe, you can find out what you should do before going at these links:
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.