Airport Parking
Airport parking is possibly the first thing you should organise once the trip is booked. Booking in advance can save you up to 60% off the price on the day. For example at Heathrow Airport, the gate price for 14 days parking in August starts from £235.50, compared with pre-booking with us on the same dates is only £83.50. Airport Parking.tv compares UK airport parking prices at 25 major UK airports including Gatwick, Heathrow, Stansted, Luton and Manchester making them highly recommended. Click here to go to the homepage and book airport parking at the top of the page.
Passport
Obviously you can't go abroad without one so it is essential that you check the expiry date of yours and renew if you have to in good time. The best place to do this is at the Direct Gov website and search 'passport'.
The cost of adult and child passports are as follows:
- An adult's passport is £77.50
- A child's passport is £49.00
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), previously E111
'The EHIC is the replacement for the E111 for British residents. As of 1 January 2006, E111s aren't valid. The EHIC can be used to cover any necessary medical treatment due to either an accident or illness within the European Economic Area (EEA). The EHIC entitles the holder to state-provided medical treatment within the country they are visiting.' You can apply for an EHIC at www.ehic.org.
Travel Insurance
I don't even need to explain the importance of travel insurance. There could be nothing worse than being injured abroad having to dish out outrageous amounts of money for treatment and the whole situation exacerbated by the language barrier. Not something you want to endure. www.travelinsurance4less.co.uk offers great deals on travel insurance and it is easy to book so will save you time, hassle and money.
Unless you have booked an all inclusive holiday which includes transfers too, car hire is essential. Having your own car abroad increases your enjoyment as you can broaden your horizon and explore different towns and attractions. www.hire4less.com offers comprehensive car hire in 8 different countries: France, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, UK and USA.
A first choice for and I would definitely recommend them.
Currency
Something that shouldn't be overlooked! Make sure you exchange enough money beforehand because most banks charge when you use your card or withdraw money abroad. You can exchange money at any post office. However, nationwide offers an account which lets you withdraw money abroad for free. Worth doing as it will save you in the long run. You can apply at: www.nationwide.co.uk.
The Pets
About 80% of families in the United Kingdom own a dog or a cat so naturally when you go on holiday they are going to need looking after. A lot of us will call upon family members but if you aren't able to and would like your animals in a trusted environment with other animals then a kennel is the right choice. Their luxury licensed kennel and cattery facilities are double glazed, centrally heated, staffed 24 hours' a day and have piped music! They only employ staff that have a deep understanding of pet care as well as excellent working relationships with the local veterinary establishments to ensure that your pet will be returned to you in tip-top condition, allowing you to relax and enjoy your holiday. If all that were not enough they are only 2 miles from Gatwick Airport making it easy for you to drop your pet off en route, or they can arrange local collection or delivery. If you are travelling abroad they can arrange for the correct transportation box to be at Gatwick Airport to meet you on arrival. www.ifield-park.co.uk
