Holiday checklist helps travellers save money, reduce stress

The Consumer Council has come up with a ‘Holiday Checklist’ for travellers to think about before setting off from home.

With the summer holidays upon us, many people are getting ready to travel overseas. While holiday makers are busy packing suitcases and ensuring passports are up to date, The Consumer Council has come up with a ‘Holiday Checklist’ for travellers to think about before setting off from home.

 “There is more to think about when booking a holiday than flights and hotels. Airport parking, travel insurance and other add-ons may be required. Booking these in advance could save you money. For example, pre-booking your airport parking online can save you from £18 to £48 for a one-week stay,” said Scott Kennerley, Head of Transport at The Consumer Council.

Here are The Consumer Council’s top tips:

  • Consider travelling by public transport to the airport/ferry terminal.
  • Pre-book car parking if travelling by car.
  • Pre-book hold baggage to avoid additional fees at check-in.
  • Pre-book special assistance 48 hours in advance if you have a disability or reduced mobility to ensure you get the assistance you need.
  • Take out travel insurance that meets your needs. Ensure it fully covers you if you are flying/sailing from the Republic of Ireland. 
  • Get a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if travelling to EU countries. Beware of copycat EHIC and passport processing websites. Use NI Direct to ensure you only use the official forms [www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/passports and
    www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/travel-health-and-european-health-insurance-card-ehic
  • Pack a copy of our travel guides: Plane Facts and Plain Sailing.

For more information on air and ferry travel, as well as special assistance, visit www.consumercouncil.org.uk, call 0800 121 6022 or email [email protected].

Last updated 6 years 8 months ago