British nationals take millions of trips overseas every year, most of which pass without any kind of incident.

Yet it is important to remember that outside the UK:

  • you are less likely to be familiar with local conditions, customs and risks
  • you may be more exposed to a variety of threats, such as crime
  • support which you could freely get in the UK may not be available or may be very expensive.

So, to stay safe and secure abroad, and to be prepared in case things go wrong, it is important to take a few simple precautions before you go:

  • Check the FCO website (www.fco.gov.uk/travel) or call the travel advice line (0845 850 2829) to help you make an informed decision about your destination and safety abroad. You can find the latest updates on vital information from security threats to political unrest, natural disasters to epidemics, as well as country specific travel advice and the top ‘don’t go’ countries.
  • Always make sure you have full travel insurance which is up to date, valid for the entire trip and covers everyone who is travelling. Check you are covered for all the activities you want to do, including any dangerous sports, and that it covers all your luggage and equipment, personal injury as a result of terrorist activity, and legal costs. You should also look carefully at exemptions to the insurance policy, including any relating to pre-existing medical conditions, or alcohol and drugs.
  • Anyone travelling within the European Economic Area or Switzerland should also get a free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) which entitles you to some reduced or free emergency care. But remember even with the EHIC card, you will still need travel insurance.
  • If you are going to live abroad, find out whether the UK has a social security agreement with the country where you plan to live and what services are covered. For more information, check the Department for Work and Pensions’ website (www.dwp.gov.uk).
  • Make sure that all your vaccinations are up to date and find out about any other suggested medical advice by visiting your health-care provider.
  • Fill in the contact details at the back of your passport for your next-of-kin or someone who can be contacted in an emergency. Apart from your passport, take another form of identification with you (preferably one with a photograph, such as a driving licence).
  • Make sure you are aware of the immigration and customs controls of the country you are travelling to, including any necessary visas. You should note that for many countries your passport needs to be valid for at least six months after the date you travel. In the UK, you can get on-line information on how to get a passport from the Identity and Passport Service (www.passport.gov.uk) or by calling 0870 521 0410.
  • Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back. Leave an itinerary and details of where you might be able to be contacted during your time abroad. You should also make two copies of your passport (including pages with relevant visas), insurance details and any other important travel documents. Leave one copy at home with a family member or a reliable friend and take one copy with you, packed separately from your passport.
  • Take enough money for your trip and some back-up funds, such as traveller’s cheques, some cash (sterling or US dollars) or credit cards. Before you leave, check that your cards are valid, and find out how you can replace them and your traveller’s cheques if they are lost or stolen. Keep a separate note of their numbers and of the number you would need to ring to stop any credit cards if they are lost or stolen.
  • Buy a good travel guide that includes basic information on local laws and customs. Talk to your travel agent or tour operator about possible risks.
  • If you are planning to drive, make sure your UK driving licence is current and valid. Make sure you know the driving laws, licence requirements and driving conditions in the country you are visiting. In some countries you will need to have an international driving permit as well as your UK licence.
  • If you are travelling in uncertain local conditions or remote areas, you should consider contacting the local British Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to see if you need to register with them. For some countries, you can register on-line at www.fco.gov.uk.