The Snowy Alps of Switzerland
• For most of us, the thought of jetting away to some exotic destination is so exciting that it’s easy to forget the simplest things; whether it’s checking your passport’s in date or simply locking the front door. Follow our simple checklist for a worry-free holiday…
1. Do your homework
Buy a good guide book. Read up about the country or city you’re heading to, and if possible, learn a few words of the language. Try and find out some information about local customs.
2. Pack it in
Make a checklist of things you’ll need, and start packing well in advance. You might think you’re the most organized person on earth, but forgetting to pack your toothbrush, pants or sunglasses really is easier that it sounds. Pack toiletries in sealable bags and place shoes in bags to avoid marking clothes. To avoid creases, roll up your favorite items, and fill nooks and crannies with smaller items. If possible, weigh your luggage to avoid excess baggage charges. All airlines will display their allowances on their websites.
3. Insure you’re insured
Purchase insurance that covers you in all situations. If you’re going diving or taking part in other extreme sports, you’ll need a plan that covers these activities. Print out the details – keep a copy for yourself and leave a copy with a friend or family member. Consider whether you want to opt for extras such as lost baggage – it might sound like an unnecessary luxury at the time but the cost is minimal. If your luggage goes missing and you end up spending the whole holiday in the same pair of pants, you can at least rest assured you’ll be compensated for your suffering at some point in the near future.
4. Get vaccinated
Make an appointment with your doctor at least six weeks before you leave to arrange to get any vaccinations needed for your destination. Make sure you carry any medication in your hand luggage, and if you wear glasses, write down the prescription for them on a piece of paper in case they’re lost or damaged. Make sure any pills are properly packed – that unlabelled bag of loose malaria pills might just land you in a whole world of trouble if customs decide to search your bag.
5. Money matters
Work out how much foreign currency you’ll need and where possible, purchase it over the internet and then pick it up in person – this can save a significant amount of money. Check your debit card and credit card expiry dates, and notify your credit card company of your travel dates. Sudden usage of a credit card in foreign countries can often cause banks to put a stop on a credit card – especially if you’ve been a victim of credit card fraud before. If your credit card statement is due while you’re away, pay it off before you go to avoid the risk of your card being stopped.
6. Don’t forget your passport!
Check the dates on your passport. More importantly, check it’s actually YOUR passport – turning up to the airport and discovering you’ve actually packed your mum’s/dad’s/dog’s passport really doesn’t bode well for a stress-free holiday. You need to make sure that it is valid for six months, and many countries now insist that a passport has at least one empty page. So while you may relish filling your passport up with stamps from far away countries, it’s probably not the best idea in the long run! Finally, check if you need visas for the country you’re going to. Often you will be able to apply for e-visas over the internet. Print and photocopy all visa details – make two copies if possible.
7. Everybody needs good neighbors
Let one or two close neighbors know your travel dates and leave them a spare key – but be subtle. The fact that your house is going to be empty for the next few weeks isn’t something you want to shout from the rooftops. Before you leave, unplug any electrical equipment, and if possible, leave lights on timers. Otherwise, consider leaving one or two lights on, such as the hallway or kitchen, for security. Place any perishables in the bin. That raw chicken won’t look so appealing after two weeks.
8. Plan your journey to the airport
Think about how you’re going to get to the airport, and plan your route. If you’re getting a taxi, book well in advance. The same goes for airport parking – you can save a considerable amount by booking online.
- Source: MSN Bing Travel
Swedish: har en säker resa!
