Arranging holiday insurance may not be the very first thing you think about when booking a summer getaway with the family – but a comprehensive policy should always be considered an essential item. So, even when you’re busy organising activities and what to pack, make sure insurance is high on your list of priorities.
You can trust that Fit2Travel have it all in hand when it comes to your insurance needs… leaving you to focus on your time away together. Here are some of our top elements to consider when travelling abroad as a family…
On a summer holiday, chances are you will be spending more time than normal out in the sunshine – so it’s more important than ever to ensure that you keep yourself and the family protected from harmful sun rays. You’ll no doubt already be aware of the most effective sun protection techniques – using sun cream liberally, factoring in breaks in the shade and staying hydrated – but it’s all too easy to overlook this when distracted by a day of fun. Setting space aside in your luggage for hats and sun block is an absolute must to minimise the chance of burning or overheating.
When setting off on a long journey with the kids, parents will know that factoring in entertainment, as well as the odd break where possible, can make the whole process more palatable for the whole family. Taking this into consideration is something we’d consider an essential – and no one knows better than you what toy, book or music will have the most successful calming effect on the group. And surely there’s a place in the hand luggage for a treat or two?
Whether your family like to keep active throughout the whole holiday or prefer to stay by the hotel pool for a chilled-out splash-around, you may wish to bring your own equipment with you. If you have the space to spare, something as simple as a favourite set of swimming goggles, pool inflatable or comfortable walking boots brought along may save some cost and comparative hassle of renting or buying items once you arrive.
Packing a couple of spare items of clothing may be habitual to many holidaymakers but we think it’s worth taking a little time in advance to consider this fully. While of course there’s only a finite amount of room in your baggage, packing for the unexpected, particularly when travelling with little ones, can often make a big difference in the event of a change in the weather, accidents, spillages or disruptions in your journey.
If you’re used to travelling with medication you will be aware that some items will require legal paperwork to prove your prescription. Even if you believe your medication does not contain a controlled drug, we’d always suggest checking with your doctor or pharmacist well in advance of heading off abroad. This will mean you’re prepared to produce any documentation required when prompted, ensuring you can travel undisrupted with your much-needed prescription.
More information about preparing to travel with controlled drugs can be found on the government website.
You may already hold your free EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) if you have travelled in Europe in the past. However, if planning a first European getaway, securing your EHIC is a top recommendation. The card is free and provides you with access to healthcare treatment whilst on holiday – whether this is an emergency or, in some cases, a pre-existing condition.
While we’d always advise getting your EHIC sorted, it’s important to note it is by no means comparable to a fully comprehensive travel insurance policy, which will cover you for factors outside of your potential healthcare needs.
Feel free to contact us for more guidance about EHICs or to discuss your specific holiday insurance needs – Fit2Travel’s team of experts are always on hand to help.