Holiday checklist

Ticks on this page aren't saved. For a checklist that remembers what you've done, use the one in your trip log.

When you book

• Passports valid for your trip. Many countries need some months left on the passport, and some need blank pages, so check the entry requirements for your destination on GOV.UK foreign travel advice.
• Visas or travel permits checked, if your destination needs them.
• Travel insurance bought. Buying it when you book means you're covered if you have to cancel.
• GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) in date for trips to the EU. It's free from the NHS website. It isn't a replacement for travel insurance.
• Flights, train or ferry booked.
• Accommodation booked.

A few weeks before

• Airport parking, transfers or a lift sorted.
• Car hire booked, with your driving licence to hand. Check whether your destination needs an International Driving Permit.
• Currency or a travel card sorted.
• Phone roaming charges checked with your network.
• Pets, plants and post looked after.
• Any tours, tickets or restaurants you don't want to miss booked.

The week before

• Baggage allowance checked. Many fares are hand luggage only, with bags and seats extra.
• Online check-in done and boarding passes saved.
• Copies of passports, insurance and bookings saved somewhere you can reach them.
• Your itinerary printed or saved on your phone.
• Someone at home knows where you'll be.

What to pack

• Passports, tickets and booking references.
• Travel insurance details and your GHIC.
• Driving licence, if you're hiring a car.
• Any medicines, in your hand luggage.
• Phone charger and a plug adaptor.
• Bank cards and some local currency.

The day you leave

• Flight or train times checked.
• Passports in your bag (check again).
• Windows shut, doors locked and the heating turned down.