Is there anything as exhilarating as the anticipation of an upcoming holiday? Whether you’re counting down the days to a tropical getaway, an adventure to a new city, or escaping to the countryside, there’s nothing quite like it. 

From ensuring your passport is on date to securing your home before you leave, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the top 10 things you need to do before setting off on your adventure.

Why should you prepare for a holiday?

Once you’re at your destination, it’s time for the real excitement to begin; however, getting to that point can be quite a stressful experience if you haven’t prepared properly. 

Planning for your holiday isn’t just a smart move, but it can also be a great part of the whole travel experience!

• Extend the anticipation — The joy of anticipation can be one of the best parts of any trip. When you prepare for a holiday, you get to extend that excitement — from researching the destination to making a checklist of things to do and places to see; who wouldn’t get excited about it?
  
  
• Savour the planning process — The process of preparing can be an adventure in itself. You get to immerse yourself in the culture, history, and attractions of your chosen destination. It's like taking a virtual tour before the real one!
  
  
• Create the perfect itinerary  — By planning ahead, you can create the perfect itinerary tailored to your interests. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, you can make sure your trip is packed with all of the activities that make you want to travel to this destination in the first place.
  
  
• Gives you a smoother start — Arriving at your destination with a well-thought-out plan means you can hit the ground running. Instead of feeling lost and disoriented once you’ve touched down, you'll have a clear idea of where to go and what to do from day one (and how to get to your hotel!).

In a nutshell, preparing for a holiday is not just about getting ready for a trip; it's about embracing the entire travel experience from start to finish and making every moment — from the initial spark of inspiration to the final reflection — a part of your adventure.

How far in advance should you start planning your holiday?

When it comes to the timing of holiday planning, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. The right time to start can vary depending on various factors, including where you want to go, how complex your trip will be, and your personal preferences. 

Here's a general rule of thumb to help you decide when to kickstart your holiday planning:

• Long-haul or complex trips — If you're dreaming of a far-off destination or a trip with intricate logistics (think multi-stop itineraries, safaris, or guided tours), consider beginning your planning a generous 6 to 12 months in advance. This early start ensures you can secure the best deals, accommodations, and availability, especially if you're aiming to travel during peak seasons. Find out more about surviving long-haul flights with our blog.
  
  
• Peak season travels — If your heart is set on visiting a popular spot during peak tourist times, it's wise to start planning a solid 9 to 12 months ahead. High-demand destinations can fill up rapidly, and prices tend to soar during peak periods like during the summer months or on New Year's Eve.
  
  
• Spontaneous adventures — If you're the adventurous type and don't mind going with the flow, you can get started on your plans 1 to 3 months before you want to jet off. This approach suits travellers who are open to last-minute deals and flexible changes to their itinerary.
  
  
• General tips — Regardless of your planning timeline, it's always smart to begin by researching your destination, understanding passport and visa requirements, and getting a handle on your trip budget well in advance. This groundwork lays a solid foundation for informed decision-making when booking time arrives.

Remember, stay flexible, stay vigilant for promotions and deals, and be prepared to tweak your plans based on availability and changing circumstances. Ultimately, the best time to start planning your holiday is when it aligns with your unique travel goals and preferences.

Do you need to budget for a holiday?

While the idea of creating a budget is down to each person, it can be a good idea to have a figure in mind of how much you want to spend — or are willing to. 

Setting a realistic budget allows you to plan your expenses like:

• Transportation
• Accommodation
• Food
• Activities
• Shopping and souvenirs
• Any unforeseen costs

It helps you avoid overspending, financial stress, and potential post-holiday debt. By determining your budget in advance, you can make informed choices about where to go, how long to stay, and what experiences to prioritise, meaning your holiday aligns with your finances but still provides a memorable experience for years to come.

Find out more about how to save money for a holiday with our blog.

Essential packing tips

When it comes to packing, you want to make sure that you’re bringing all the essentials with you, whether you’re heading on a winter skiing trip or a European city break. 

Here are some friendly packing tips to help get the most out of your suitcase:

1. Roll, don't fold

Rolling your clothes is not just a space-saving technique; it's a game-changer for keeping your clothes neat and wrinkle-free during your trip. 

The rolling method allows you to maximise every nook and cranny in your suitcase. Plus, when you arrive at your destination, your outfits are ready to go without the need for ironing or dealing with pesky creases. It's like packing efficiency and wrinkle prevention rolled into one!

2. Use packing cubes

Packing cubes are nifty organisers that come in various sizes and keep your clothes, shoes and accessories neatly organised and separated. Say goodbye to digging through your suitcase, trying to find that missing sock! 

Our Trtl Packing Pods come in three sizes — small, medium and large — and are designed to fit well in all luggage without cramming a square cube into a round bag. They’re also made from 100% PCW recycled fabrics and recycled packaging — each set contains 13 recycled plastic bottles within the innovative fabric!

3. Keep your valuables 

Your most important pieces of information, including your passport, travel documents, electronics, and valuable items, should always be kept in your hand luggage. 

This way, you can access them quickly and keep them safe throughout your journey. Remember to use a secure and easily accessible pocket or pouch within your carry-on bag for added convenience, and make sure everything is stored together.

4. Bundle your outfits

The bundling method is a clever way to pack your clothes efficiently and reduce wrinkles. Start with your most wrinkle-prone items on the outside, like dress shirts, linen blouses or satin skirts. Then, layer your other clothes on top, folding them all together into a bundle. 

This technique not only saves space but also keeps your outfits in pristine condition.

5. Wear your bulkiest items

If you’re faced with limited space in your suitcase, or have bulky items like jackets, hiking boots, or heavy jumpers and hoodies, consider wearing them during your journey. 

This helps to not only free up valuable space in your luggage but also means that you can stay warm and comfortable while travelling.

Find out more about how to pack for a winter getaway — including all the essentials — with our handy blog. 

How should you prepare before going on holiday?

Before the excitement of your upcoming holiday sweeps you off your feet, there are a few essential tasks that you need to tackle. From ensuring your passport is in date to making sure your home is secure while you’re away, these pre-holiday preparations are key to a smooth and worry-free getaway!

1. Make sure your passport is in date — Before you jet off on your adventure, take a moment to check your passport's expiry date. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date. Renew it if needed, ensuring it's in pristine condition, and consider making photocopies or digital copies of important pages, just in case.
   
   
2. Check you have all the essential documents you need — Gather all your essential travel documents and organise them in a secure folder or travel wallet. This should include your travel itinerary, hotel reservations, flight tickets, and any necessary visas or travel permits. Having everything in one place makes it easier to access information when needed.
   
   
3. Make sure you know the luggage allowance — Each airline has its own baggage allowance policy, so it's crucial to know the restrictions and weight limits for your specific flight. Avoid excess baggage fees by packing within the limits, and consider weighing your luggage at home to avoid any surprises at the airport!
   
   
4. Take out travel insurance — Travel insurance provides peace of mind in case of any unexpected situations like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost baggage. Research and purchase a suitable travel insurance policy that covers your needs, and review the policy details before you travel to make sure you’re covered for everything.
   
   
5. Sort your travel money — Sorting out your travel money is vital. Consider exchanging currency in advance if you need to, and also carry a small amount of local cash for immediate use upon arrival. Prepaid travel cards or mobile payment apps like Revolut can be convenient alternatives for managing your money abroad and can help you keep track of your spending.
   
   
6. Pre-book travel to the airport — Planning your transportation to the airport ahead of time is a great idea. Booking a taxi, arranging a ride with a friend, or scheduling an airport shuttle service will ensure you arrive comfortably and on time for your flight.
   
   
7. Sort out pet care — If you have pets, make arrangements for their care well in advance. Whether you’re hiring a pet sitter, boarding them at a trusted facility, or having a friend or family member look after them, it’s essential that you get this care sorted. It’s also a good idea to provide clear instructions and give the necessary supplies — like food, toys, beds and health care — to whoever is looking after your pet.
   
   
8. Prepare your mobile phone — Before you get off on holiday, it’s a good idea to check your roaming plan with your mobile provider. Some networks allow you to roam in Europe or other parts of the world free of charge, but with others, you’ll have to pay once you land. Consider buying a local SIM card or opt for an international data plan to avoid excess roaming charges.
   
   
9. Protect your home — Before you leave for the airport, make sure that your home is secure. Lock all doors and windows, set any alarms and notify a trusted neighbour, friend or family member about your travel plans. That way, they can keep a close eye on your property, collect any post and make sure the house seems in order while you’re away. Don’t forget to unplug or turn off any non-essential appliances to save energy!
   
   
10. Book any extras — If you have specific activities or experiences planned for your trip, such as tours, excursions, or restaurant reservations, it's a good idea to book them in advance. This ensures availability and saves you from disappointment due to fully booked activities when you arrive at your destination.

Is travel insurance a legal requirement?

Travel insurance isn’t typically a legal requirement for most travellers in the destinations we visit — think of it like this: if it doesn’t require a VISA, then travel insurance can be thought of as an extra. 

However, there are some parts of the world where travel insurance is a legal requirement in order to enter the country:

• Ecuador
• Georgia
• Iran
• Israel
• Qatar
• Seychelles
• The UAE

Some countries have slightly different requirements to enter the country:

• Belize — All visitors must purchase a policy from the Belize government known as the ‘Belize Travel Health Insurance’.
  
  
• Cuba — Travel insurance is required for all VISAs. If you haven’t purchased a policy before you fly, you’ll be required to purchase one upon arrival.
  
  
• Jamaica — All non-Jamaican citizens must enrol on the ‘Jamaica Cares’ scheme, regardless of whether you already have valid travel insurance. This is essentially a health insurance plan that covers evacuation, field rescue and more while you’re in the country.
  
  
• Jordan — Travel insurance is required for travelling to Jordan; however, all policies must be valid for the entire stay and should cover emergency medical services, repatriation and evacuation.
  
  
• Rwanda — You’ll be required to choose a policy on arrival if you have not already done so. Because of this, it makes sense to purchase a policy before you leave.

Do you need to notify your bank about your travel plans?

While you don’t legally need to tell your bank that you’re heading abroad, it can be a good idea to let them know, especially if you will be using your credit or debit card there. 

Informing your bank about any travel plan you have can help prevent potential issues with your credit or debit cards while you're abroad. Notifying your bank serves a few important purposes, including enhancing security by avoiding card blocks due to unusual international transactions and ensuring your cards work smoothly in the regions you plan to visit!

Travel the right way with Trtl Travel

It’s important that when you’re preparing for your holiday, you don’t forget the essentials, but that’s why our handy checklist is here to help!

It’s also important that you remain in complete comfort wherever you are, and that’s why our travel pillows will leave you feeling refreshed at your destination, whether it’s a quick trip of a few hours or a long-haul flight.  

To find out more helpful tips and tricks for all things flying, check out our blog page.