Advice for staying safe on your holiday abroad

Everyone looks forward to jetting off on holiday.

But it’s important to remember that your trip starts as soon as you book it. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) – the UK Government’s department for foreign affairs – provides regular updates to travellers.

Here are the key points to help you stay safe on your break:

Travel insurance:

• Buy it when you book

• Declare your medical conditions

• Check your insurance covers your holiday activities

• Check your insurance policy covers your whole trip

• Make sure you’re covered for medical evacuation

• Pack your policy

• Share your insurance details before going abroad

Stick with your mates:

• Mates that party together, leave together
• Keep an eye on your drinks – do not leave them unattended
• Buy drinks from reputable places – inspect the packaging and examine the liquid
• Trust your senses – if a drink doesn’t smell or taste right, do not drink it
• Moderation is key – drink water between alcoholic drinks to stay hydrated
• Know your limits
• Do not accept drinks from strangers
• Share your live location
• Stay in touch during nights out
• Keep your hotel address on you
• Agree a back-up meeting point

Other safety advice:

• Don’t take illegal drugs on holiday – some countries can impose severe penalties
• Do not be pressured into carrying drugs for others
• If you suspect methanol poisoning (including headaches, vomiting, drowsiness, and loss of co-ordination from alcohol), seek medical help
• Check if there are any differences in the law
• Read up on the cultural differences – they can be different to the UK
• Visit gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice before you go

For more information regarding staying safe abroad and to view the ‘Foreign Travel Checklist’, visit: Travel Aware - Travel Aware