The summer holidays will soon be here, and many families will be looking forward to their well-deserved break abroad. Whether you’ve booked a relaxing beach holiday, a fun-filled family resort, or a cultural city getaway, there are several key things you need to organise in advance to ensure your trip runs smoothly.

The last thing you want is to be running around in a Home Alone-style panic, trying to sort passports, boarding passes, or insurance at the last minute. I’ve learned from experience that planning ahead makes a massive difference, so here’s a detailed checklist of essential things to do before your family summer holiday abroad.

1. Check and Renew Passports Early

Passports are at the top of the list because, without them, your holiday simply won’t happen! Even if you think yours is in date, it’s worth checking now to be absolutely sure.

I’ve been caught out by this before. When I last ordered a passport, they had scrapped the express service, which meant no option for a quick renewal. If I hadn’t applied well in advance, we could have missed our trip! This is why I now recommend sorting passports as early as possible, in case of unexpected delays.

Things to check:

✔ Expiry date – Some countries require at least six months’ validity beyond your travel dates.
✔ First-time child passports – These can take longer to process, so apply months in advance.
✔ Lost or expired passports – Replacements take time, so don’t leave it too late.
✔ Urgent travel? – Some premium and fast-track services exist but are expensive.

Personalised Best Stories Passport Cover

2. Get Comprehensive Travel Insurance

Travel insurance isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s an essential part of your holiday planning. No one expects things to go wrong, but illness, lost luggage, or last-minute cancellations can happen. I always make sure we have comprehensive cover, especially for medical emergencies.

I also recommend checking what your policy covers. Some travel insurance policies exclude things like adventure activities or pre-existing medical conditions, so read the small print carefully. If you’re travelling more than once this year, an annual multi-trip policy might be more cost-effective.

Things to consider:

✔ Does it cover all the destinations you’re visiting?
✔ Is cancellation and lost baggage included?
✔ Does it cover activities like water sports or skiing if needed?
✔ Could a bank account perk offer free travel insurance?

Click here for a travel insurance quote from Bupa Global.

3. Sort Out Travel Money and Currency Exchange

Sorting out spending money before your trip can save you from high exchange rates and ATM withdrawal fees abroad. It’s best to compare options early to get the best deal.

Gone are the days when I’d rely on airport exchange counters (they have terrible rates!). Now, I either order currency online in advance or use a prepaid travel card like Revolut or Wise, which offers better exchange rates and no hidden fees. You can also use the HSBS Global debit card which has no fees.  

Best ways to handle travel money:

✔ Prepaid travel cards – Lock in great exchange rates.
✔ Credit cards with no foreign transaction fees – Handy for bigger expenses.
✔ Order foreign currency in advance – Better rates than last-minute exchanges.
✔ Carry a small amount of local cash – Useful for taxis, tips, and small purchases.

Passport wallet and holder

4. Check Baggage Allowances and Pack Smart

Baggage rules vary by airline, and not checking weight and size limits could result in expensive extra fees at the airport.

I always double-check our luggage allowances before we fly, as some airlines have a strict weight limit for hold luggage, and others won’t even let you take a cabin bag unless you’ve paid extra. We weigh everything at home first to avoid issues.

Packing tips for a stress-free holiday:

✔ Check airline baggage policies – Different airlines have different limits.
✔ Weigh your luggage at home – Avoid surprise fees.
✔ Use packing cubes – They keep things organised and save space.
✔ Pack a spare outfit in hand luggage – In case of baggage delays.
✔ Toiletries in a clear bag – Must be under 100ml for hand luggage.
✔ First aid kit – Include plasters, antiseptic wipes, and any essential medication.

👉 Tip: Travelling with kids? Bring snacks, small toys, and activities to keep them entertained on the flight!

5. Print or Download Boarding Passes

Many airlines require online check-in, and some charge extra if you check in at the airport. To avoid delays, I always set a reminder to check in as soon as it opens and download boarding passes to my phone (or print them as a backup if you can print them at home).

Before heading to the airport:

✔ Set a reminder for online check-in.
✔ Download boarding passes to your phone or print them.
✔ Keep them handy – You’ll need them for security and boarding.

Travel Documents Pouch

6. Arrange Airport Transfers and Parking in Advance

Don’t leave transport arrangements to the last minute. Whether you’re taking public transport, driving, or booking a taxi, plan ahead to avoid unnecessary stress.

One thing I’ve learned is that airport parking is much cheaper when booked in advance. If we’re driving to the airport, I always pre-book parking to save money and guarantee a space.

Transport options:

✔ Driving? – Pre-book airport parking for better rates.
✔ Public transport? – Buy tickets early to secure the best price.
✔ Taxis or transfers? – Booking ahead saves time and hassle.

7. Research Local Rules and Travel Requirements

Every country has different entry rules, including visa requirements, vaccinations, and customs regulations. It’s important to check in advance so you’re not caught off guard.

Things to research before you travel:

✔ Do you need a visa? – Some destinations require advance applications.
✔ Vaccination requirements – Some countries require proof of specific vaccines.
✔ Medication rules – Some UK-approved medicines are banned in other countries.

Van Gogh Almond Blossom Suitcase

8. Plan Your Itinerary and Activities

While some people love spontaneous travel, booking key activities in advance can save money and ensure you don’t miss out.

Why book early?

✔ Popular attractions sell out fast.
✔ Some offer discounted tickets for advance bookings.
✔ Avoid long queues by pre-booking online.

Personalised luggage tag (I ordered one of these for my suitcase - aren't they great!)

9. Secure Your Home Before You Leave

Before heading to the airport, take some time to secure your home.

Final checks before you leave:

✔ Lock all doors and windows.
✔ Set light timers to make your home look occupied.
✔ Ask a neighbour or friend to check on your house.
✔ Unplug electronics to save energy.

Final Holiday Checklist

✅ Passports & Visas – Check expiry dates and apply early.
✅ Travel Insurance – Get comprehensive cover.
✅ Travel Money – Organise currency or a fee-free travel card.
✅ Luggage – Check airline baggage policies and pack smart.
✅ Boarding Passes – Download or print them.
✅ Transport & Parking – Pre-book to avoid last-minute stress.
✅ Local Travel Rules – Check visa and vaccination requirements.
✅ Plan Activities – Book popular attractions in advance.
✅ Home Security – Lock up and set security measures.

By planning ahead, you’ll ensure a smooth, stress-free holiday and focus on making wonderful family memories.

So long as you ensure you have arranged the above well in advance then you are almost ready for your holiday.  All that is left is to exchange your money, pack your holiday wardrobe and be on your way!