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Planning your next getaway? Already feeling excitement, worry, or both? Travelling can be chaotic sometimes, from packing your bags to navigating airports, the potential for stress is everywhere. Fear not – we’ve compiled a list of easy travel hacks to help you breeze through your adventures!

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1. Make a packing List

First things first, packing can feel overwhelming. Avoid the last-minute scramble by creating a packing list before you start. Jot down essentials like clothing, toiletries, and chargers. You can even categorise items (clothes, documents, gadgets) for an organised packing experience. Trust us, you’ll thank yourself later!

2. Use packing cubes

Do not overlook packing cubes – they’re an absolute game changer! They keep your suitcase organised and make it easy to find what you need without rummaging through everything. Plus, they can help you maximise space, which means more room for souvenirs on the way back!

3. Plan your travel insurance in advance

Now, let’s chat about that all-important travel insurance. It’s not just a safety net; it’s peace of mind. Purchase your policy ahead of time (up to a year in advance) to ensure coverage in case life throws a curveball—like a missed flight or a sudden illness. A little planning here can save you from a heap of stress later!

4. Check-in online

Avoid long queues at the airport by checking in online. Most airlines allow you to check in 24 hours before your flight. You can select your seats, skip the lines at the airport—and spend extra time shopping in duty-free!

5. Keep important documents handy

Use a folder for important documents like your passport, travel insurance details, and boarding passes. Not only does this make it easy to access your information, but it also helps avoid the frantic search through your bag when you need it most.

6. Arrive early

This may seem obvious, but arriving early at the airport can help you dodge unnecessary stress. Give yourself enough time to navigate security, grab a snack, and find your gate without feeling rushed.

7. Stay hydrated and snack smart

Travelling can be dehydrating, so drink plenty of water—especially during long flights. Pack some healthy snacks, too. Granola bars or dried fruit can keep your energy levels up and prevent that hangry feeling from setting in! 

Tip: Avoid bringing nuts on the plane. Many flights won’t allow them if someone allergic is travelling, so it’s safer and easier to bring alternative snacks!

8. Download useful apps

Smartphone apps are your best friend when travelling. Download airline apps, such as Flightradar24, for updates on flight status, or translation apps, such as Microsoft Translator, to help bridge any language gaps in real-time. Also consider downloading some podcasts or Netflix shows to keep you entertained during your flight.

9. Remember to relax!

Sometimes, things don’t go according to plan, and that’s okay! Embrace a flexible attitude – if your flight gets delayed or plans change, take a deep breath and go with the flow. Take a moment to breathe and soak in your surroundings: stress-free travel is about enjoying the journey as much as the destination!

Final thoughts

By combining these simple travel hacks with a solid travel insurance policy, you’ll be well on your way to a stress-free adventure! Embrace the journey and focus on creating lasting memories, rather than worrying about what could go wrong.

Ready to travel with confidence?

Get travel Insurance from the experts! 

We offer specialist travel insurance to suit your needs. All of our policies come with a 24/7 multilingual helpline, and each can be tailored to fit your unique circumstances, no matter where in the world you are! Get in touch with us for a quote or call us on 01892 833338. Safe travels await!

Long haul travel can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also be physically and mentally draining. Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure, these 12 top tips are sure to help you have a comfortable and enjoyable trip!

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1. Plan Your Itinerary Ahead of Time – By planning ahead, you can save money and avoid any last-minute stress or complications. This includes booking flights, accommodation, activities and tours you want to do at your destination. 
2. Research Your Destination – This is a must to make the most of your time there. Look into local customs, currency exchange rates, and any cultural or safety considerations. This will also help you pack appropriately and avoid any surprises during your trip. 
3. Read Reviews! – Going long haul means that this is likely a once-in-a-lifetime trip, so you want to make sure you get it right the first time. Find out where other people have gone, what they did, and what they thought of each tour, activity, restaurant, bar, hotel and hostel! 
4. Pack Smart and Light – Pack versatile clothing that can be layered and accessories with ease. Don’t forget to pack essential items such as medication, chargers, and travel documents. Top tip: Pack a change of clothes and any necessary toiletries in your carry-on in case of lost luggage.
5. Invest in Quality Luggage – Look for lightweight, durable suitcases with good wheels and handles for easy manoeuvring. Consider purchasing a luggage scale to avoid any overweight baggage fees.
6. Use Packing Cubes – Packing cubes are a game-changer for long haul travel. They help keep your suitcase organised, make it easier to find items without having to unpack and repack everything, and they also compress your clothing, allowing you to pack more efficiently!
7. Stay Hydrated – Even short flights can leave your skin dry and your body dehydrated. Going through that for over a couple of hours can lead to fatigue, headaches, and dare we say, constipation! Pack a reusable water bottle, fill it up after going through security, ask for water on the plane, and fill up at hydration stations during layovers.
8. Dress Comfortably – Opt for loose-fitting, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes. Avoid tight or restrictive clothing that can cause discomfort during long periods of sitting. 
9. Get Up and Move – Sitting for extended periods of time can cause stiffness and discomfort, and can increase your risk of deep-vein thrombosis.. Make sure to get up and move around the cabin every hour or so to stretch your legs and prevent blood clots. Top tip: get compression socks for your flight!
10. Bring Entertainment – there is a trend for enduring long haul flights with no distractions whatsoever, but believe us, after the excitement of takeoff flights are BORING!  Pack books (e-books are a great space-saver) and magazines, download films, podcasts and games on your phone or tablet. Don’t forget to bring headphones or earbuds to avoid disturbing other passengers!
11. Pack Snacks – Aeroplane food can be dull and expensive, have some snacks to pass the time, excite the tastebuds, and save money.  Granola bars, nuts & dried fruit are ideal to nibble on.
12. Get Some Rest – Bring a travel pillow and eye mask to help you sleep on the plane. Earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones are essential to block out any distractions.

Expect the unexpected (and get travel insurance!)

Long haul travel can be unpredictable, so it’s important to stay positive and flexible in case of any delays or changes in plans. Keep an open mind and try to make the best of any situation. And remember, get travel insurance! It’ll save you money and give you total peace of mind should the unexpected happen.

Get in touch with us for a quote or call us on 01892 833338

Whether you are embarking on a Gap Year or you plan to study abroad, this is the beginning of a great adventure! Add a spot of solo travelling in with it and you’ve got the recipe for an incredibly rewarding experience. Here are some top travel tips for exploring new places, meeting new people, and learning more about yourself when you travel solo as a student!

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Why travel solo as a student?

Travelling solo allows you to have complete control over your itinerary, budget, and experiences. You can go wherever you want, whenever you want, without having to compromise with anyone else. It also gives you the opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself, leading to personal growth and self-discovery. 

These are all great ways to build confidence and self-esteem ahead of meeting new people when you start your next level of studies.

Travel tips for adventurous solo explorers

If you’re an adventurous soul looking to embark on a solo journey, here are some tips to make the most out of your trip:

• Research your destination: Before you go, research your destination to get an idea of what to expect. Look for popular attractions, local customs, and safety precautions. This will help you plan your trip and avoid any unpleasant surprises.
• Pack light: Even if you’ve shipped all your belongings over ready to start at your new place of study, when you explore your new destination you’ll be responsible for carrying all the luggage you need. Pack light to make your journey more comfortable!
•  Stay in hostels or shared accommodation: Not only are hostels and shared accommodations more budget-friendly, but they also provide an opportunity to meet other travellers, other gap year students, and make new friends.
• Be open to new experiences: Solo travel is all about stepping out of your comfort zone and trying new things. Be open to new experiences, whether it’s trying new foods, participating in local activities, or making new friends.
• Go on a walking tour: Walking tours are a great way to explore a new place, learn more about its history, and meet other people with the same interests in the area.
• Book experiences: Hikes, talks, workshops and shows are another great way to meet like-minded travellers near you!
• Try new foods: Food is an essential part of any culture, and trying new foods can be a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Solo travel tips for introverts

Solo travel can be a great way to recharge and explore at your own pace. Here are some tips to make the most out of a solo trip if you’d rather keep to yourself:

• Plan your itinerary: As an introvert, you may prefer to have a plan in place. Research and plan your itinerary beforehand, so you have a rough idea of what to expect and can avoid any overwhelming situations.
• Stay in private accommodation: Hostels and shared accommodation may not be your cup of tea! Consider staying in a private room or apartment to have some alone time and recharge.
• Find alone time if you are in shared accommodation: It’s okay to take breaks and have some alone time during your trip. Use this time to relax, recharge, and reflect on your experiences.
• Connect with locals: As an introvert, you may prefer one-to-one interactions over group activities. Connect with locals recommended by your hosts to have more meaningful interactions and learn more about the local culture.
• Bring a book or journal: Having a book or journal with you can be a great way to unwind and have some alone time during your trip.

Safety as a solo traveller

Safety should always be a top priority when travelling alone. Here are some tips to stay safe during your solo trip:

• Trust your instincts: As a solo explorer, you may find yourself in unfamiliar situations. Trust your instincts and use common sense to stay safe.
• Share your itinerary: Let someone back home know your travel plans, including where you’re staying and when you plan to return to your accommodation. Check in with them regularly to let them know you’re safe.
• Stay aware of your surroundings: When exploring a new place, it’s essential to stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone at night and trust your instincts if you feel unsafe.
• Keep important documents safe: Make copies of your passport, travel insurance, and other important documents and keep them in a safe place. You can also store digital copies on your phone or email them to yourself.
• Get student travel insurance: There are specialist travel insurance policies for gap year students as well as travel insurance for studying abroad. Having specialist insurance ensures that you are covered for the unique challenges and circumstances these situations might bring above and beyond losing a passport or needing medical help.

Budgeting when travelling by yourself

Travelling solo can be more expensive than travelling with a group. Here are some budgeting tips to help you save money during your solo trip:

• Stay in budget-friendly accommodation: Shared accommodation such as hostels are great budget-friendly options. You can also consider staying in an Airbnb or Couchsurfing to save even more money.
• Cook your meals: Eating out can quickly add up, especially if you’re travelling for an extended period. Consider staying in a place with a kitchen.
• Use public transportation: Taxis and ride-sharing services can be expensive, especially in touristy areas. Use public transportation to save money on transportation costs.

Get a travel insurance quote for your solo trip of a lifetime!

We have specialist travel insurance policies for gap year students as well as travel insurance for studying abroad. All of our policies come with 24/7 multilingual helpline access and each policy can be tailored to suit your unique needs, no matter where in the world you are! 

Get in touch with us for a quote or call us on 01892 833338

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We’re not going to lie, travelling with a baby can be challenging! But with proper planning and preparation, it can be a rewarding and memorable start to a lifetime of adventure!

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Things to consider when travelling abroad with a baby

Before you even think about booking your holiday there are a few important considerations to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience for you, your baby, and anyone else travelling with you!

1. Choose a baby-friendly destination: Avoid party places packed with clubs and bars. Licensing laws abroad are very different to the UK, and you could find yourself in a 24h party place!
2. Choose baby-friendly accommodation: Stair gates for little ones who are  crawling, laundry facilities for the inevitable cleanups, pool fences for little ones who may be on the move at a private villa, or cots and bottle warming facilities at a hotel. You know what you need at home, make sure that you book somewhere that can cater for your needs.
3. Get family-friendly travel insurance: Choose a family travel insurance policy that offers the right cover for each family member’s needs whatever the age!
4. Research local customs and culture: Some destinations are immensely family friendly, with even the smallest kids welcome at all hours. Others less so! Do your research to avoid any cultural faux pas and ensure a more enjoyable experience for everyone.

Which countries are baby-friendly?

Feedback in travel forums suggests the following locations over and over again: Italy, Portugal, Spain, Greece & Thailand. Here you can expect your tiny ones to be doted on, get all the help you need with feeding and changing, and even have someone hold your baby so you can enjoy your meal!

What to pack for baby’s first holiday

When travelling abroad with a baby, it is important to pack the right essentials to ensure a smooth and comfortable trip. Here are some must-have items to consider:

• Passport and other travel documents
• Baby sling and/or umbrella stroller
• Calpol, thermometer, & first aid kit
• Favourite toys and entertainment
• Pacifier, taggie, teddy or blanket – and a spare of each!
• Sunscreen and mosquito repellent for sensitive skin
• Travel steam steriliser
• Skycot or Bassinet if travelling by air, or a suitable car seat

How old does a baby need to be to travel by aeroplane?

It is recommended to wait until the baby is 2 weeks old to travel, however, babies between 2 days old and seven days old are allowed to travel by plane, but you will need a permission-to-fly letter from your doctor. Babies under 48 hours old will not be allowed to board the aeroplane.

How much baby milk and baby food can you take through airport security?

There isn’t a limit on how much you can pack, but there are restrictions. This is the advice from Gov.uk, they do however suggest contacting the airport for more accurate information ahead of your trip.

From Gov.uk

Tips for a Smooth Trip with a Baby

You’re booked, you’re packed, now you need these tips to make the trip as smooth as possible for everyone.

1. Plan for breaks and downtime. Travelling can be tiring for anyone, especially for a baby. Make sure to plan for breaks and downtime throughout your trip to allow your baby to rest and recharge. This can also help prevent meltdowns and keep everyone in a better mood.
2. Stick to your baby’s routine. While it may be tempting to let your baby stay up late or skip naps or take extra ones at convenient times, it is important to stick to their regular routine as much as possible. This will help them feel more comfortable and prevent any disruptions to their sleep schedule.
3. Be prepared for delays and unexpected situations. Travelling can be unpredictable, so it is important to be prepared for delays and unexpected situations. This may involve packing extra bottles of milk, snacks, nappies, and entertainment for your baby, as well as having a backup plan in case of flight or transportation delays.
4. Take care of yourself! Remember to eat, hydrate, and get as much rest as you can when you can!

Get a family travel insurance quote today!

Get in touch with us for a quote or call us on 01892 833338.  We offer a 24/7 multilingual helpline and carefully tailored policies to suit the unique needs of you and your family!