Travel Checklist

There's so much to do and think about before you go on holiday that you don’t want to be worrying about what might go wrong.

Just follow these ten simple travel tips and you can pack your bags in peace, knowing you have done all you can to make your holiday enjoyable and risk-free.

1. Check out any risks associated with your destination by visiting the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) Travel Advice website at www.fco.gov.uk/travel

2. Get comprehensive travel insurance, making sure it gives you all the cover you need

3. At least six weeks before you go find out what vaccinations you need. Your destination may carry a risk of a contractable disease such as malaria, typhoid, cholera or even rabies. The FCO website at www.fco.gov.uk/travel can tell you more

4. Make sure you have a valid passport. Remember, it must be in good condition and contain the necessary visas

5. Take a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) with you, as well as adequate travel insurance. This will give you reduced cost or sometimes free medical treatment in 28 European countries. Get an EHIC online at www.dh.gov.uk/travellers , apply by phone on 0845 606 2030* or get an application form from the Post Office

6. Photocopy your passport and insurance policy. Then make notes of 24-hour emergency numbers, together with credit card and ticket details. Leave your copies and notes, plus your itinerary and contact details, with family and friends

7. It may sound obvious, but ensure you have enough money for your trip. You should even take some back up funds in travellers cheques, sterling or US dollars

8. Pick up a good guide book and get to know your destination. It’s always a good idea to find out about local laws and customs

9. If your tour operator or travel organiser went bankrupt, could they refund and repatriate you? Get evidence of security with a Financial Protection Organisation

10.  Some air travel will involve airlines you may not be familiar with. Remember you can always check their safety and reliability with a reputable travel agent.

For more travel recommendations, visit the Know Before You Go website at www.fco.gov.uk/travel

* Calls to 0845 numbers from BT landlines will cost a maximum of 5p per minute, plus a 6p call set up fee. The price of calls from other telephone companies will vary. The call price is correct at August 2008.