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1. Create a holiday packing checklist
With so many essentials to remember, packing for a trip can be stressful. And it’s all too easy to miss things.
Start off on the right foot with this packing checklist for a holiday or business trip:
- Match the holiday type. Flip-flops, towels and swimsuits are ideal for a beach holiday. But not so much a skiing trip, where you might need thermals, boots and gloves instead. You can tailor your packing to the type of trip.
- Take a map or travel guide if you’re going to be exploring to ensure you see all the sights. You could also download maps on to your phone in advance.
- Plan for all weather conditions. Take something warm in case the temperature changes.
- Consider taking a smaller bag or backpack if you plan to go on day trips. This is handy for storing essentials.
- Think about downloading a translator app to get fully immersed in the local culture.
- Weigh your case before you get to the airport. This way, you won’t have to pay extra for going over any weight limits. Consider whether you want to leave space for any souvenirs or holiday shopping too. You could also take a travel scale so you can weigh bags before heading home.
Electronics
International plug adaptors are essential for charging phones and other devices. And it’s handy to have a portable charger if you’re going to be out all day. The likes of tablets and headphones could also keep everyone entertained on a long journey.
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Sun care
Don’t forget sunglasses, suncream and sunhats if you’re heading somewhere hot.
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Toiletries
Medications, a toothbrush and toothpaste, shampoo, and deodorant are all likely to be high on your international travel checklist. Meanwhile, a first-aid kit could prepare you for the unexpected – especially if travelling with little ones.
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Travel documents
Insurance policies, hotel invoices, boarding passes and passports are among the documents to keep a close eye on.
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Travel Account
Make fee-free purchases in the Eurozone by linking euros to an eligible NatWest debit card.
Our Travel Account makes it simple to separate your holiday pot from everyday spending. It’s easy to track your euro spending via our mobile app too.
Travel accounts can be linked to eligible current accounts only. UK residents over 18. Eligibility and Terms apply. Fees may apply. One Travel account per customer. Local ATM fees may apply.
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Travel money
Physical cash could also play a part in your holiday budgeting. We offer more than 70 different currencies via Eurochange with 0% exchange rate commission.
The euro, US dollar and Turkish lira are just a sample of the currencies you can convert.
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Packaged bank accounts
Some of our accounts offer fee-free spending during your time abroad.
Not valid for ATM withdrawals. Other local fees may apply. Specific account eligibility criteria and monthly account fees apply.
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Travel credit cards
Traditional credit cards may charge foreign transaction fees when used abroad. But regular holiday goers could consider a specialist travel credit card.
Eligibility criteria apply. Over 18s only.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is another benefit of our packaged bank accounts.
It could offer financial protection against baggage problems, emergency medical expenses, cancellations, and more.
Account eligibility and fees apply.
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Sort out travel logistics
Before leaving home, you could think about:
- pre-booking airport parking
- booking lounge access
- organising fast-track security
- sorting your transfers out
- finding a reliable hire car for your destination
- organising any day trips you want to take.
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Budget for roaming charges
While you’re still in the UK, check your roaming allowances with your mobile network. You can always switch roaming off in your phone’s settings.
This way, you’ll know what to expect and can avoid any surprising bills.
It might also be a good idea to organise a travel sim card so you can use mobile data abroad.
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Find the right travel insurance
Travel insurance could financially protect you against disruption or medical emergencies when overseas.
Make sure you have a suitable policy to match your personal needs. Then note down your policy number and the insurance company’s contact details, just in case you need them.
Check if you’d benefit from a Global Health Insurance Card, in addition to your insurance package.
We include travel insurance with certain packaged bank accounts.
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5. Get to know your destination
Once you’ve ticked off the first few stages of your holiday preparation list, it’s time to focus more on the destination.
Each country will have different customs and laws to keep in mind. So, it’s helpful to carefully research your destination before travelling. Here are some more holiday tips to get you started:
- Read up on cash machine and card usage rules to double-check you’ll have enough money during your trip.
- Take a look at the government’s official advice to see if there are any travel warnings to be aware of.
- Locate the British embassy and learn how you can get in touch if you need it.
- Find out whether there are any specific driving rules if you’re planning to rent a car. For example, the laws around children’s seats may be different.
- Consider researching shop opening hours and tipping customs so you’ll feel more at home.
6. Prepare for the airport
Before jetting off, there’s just one final step to include in your overseas travel checklist: navigating the airport.
Each airport will have a different layout, while some have more than one terminal. So, it’s important to arrive in plenty of time. And check ahead so you know where to park or where your transport will drop you off.
Here are some handy links so you can get familiar with your airport’s layout. You could also find information on booking lounge access, fast-lane security and parking.
This might not feel like the most enjoyable step when creating a checklist for your holiday. But it’s useful to be prepared for all possibilities.
If you have any issues with your travel, you should speak to the provider you booked with as a first port of call.
If your travel has been cancelled, we can support you to get your money back if you need to raise a dispute.
If you have any other banking questions, you can speak with our digital chatbot, Cora.
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