The world changes on a daily basis. The Foreign & Commonwealth Office and National Travel Health Network and Centre have up-to-date advice on staying safe and healthy abroad.
Their website gives useful advice for countries throughout the world, including safety and security, local laws and customs, entry requirements, natural disasters, political situations, health alerts, and crime information, as well as what to do if something does go wrong.
If you are travelling within Europe, ensure you have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) that hasn’t expired and understand what it covers – you still need full travel insurance though!
If you are travelling to the US you will need an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) which is an automated system used to determine the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and whether such travel poses any law enforcement or security risk.
The Foreign & Commonwealth Office also provides the following advice:
You should also take out appropriate travel insurance before travelling and make sure it covers you for all the activities you want to do.
Learn about the laws, customs and entry requirements of the country you’re visiting and understand how they differ from home, check www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.
Check your passport is valid, fill out the emergency details, look after it while travelling and keep it in a safe place. Make sure you have all necessary visas.
Make copies of important travel documents, take a picture or make copies and store them securely using a secure data storage site.
Research vaccinations or any other medical requirements for your destination, and if necessary visit a travel health clinic before you travel.
Tell your friends or family about your travel plans and where you’re going and leave emergency contact details.
Take enough money with you and have access to emergency funds.
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