Holiday survival guide

Will I need insurance?

Hopefully not – but if you get injured, taken ill or your stuff gets stolen, you’ll be glad you had it. Shop around for quotes, and check carefully what the policy includes – some won’t cover you for watersports injuries, for example.

Remember that if you have an accident after drinking alcohol, even if you’re not drunk, your insurance company is very unlikely to pay out. This could mean that you’re stuck with a very hefty medical bill if you get into difficulties after having even one drink.

What happens if I get in trouble with the police?

If you or one of your friends gets in trouble with the police, stay calm. Your first move should be to contact your tour rep who will be able to offer advice on what to do next. If you have been arrested the British Consul will be informed of your situation. 

They can’t simply bail you out of prison, but they can tell you how the country’s justice system works, and will be able to get you an interpreter or lawyer if you need one. Friends and family can also be contacted through the Consul.

Many countries have strict laws on public drunkenness, and the consequences can be severe. Drink sensibly* and always look out for your mates to check they’re not getting into trouble.

What should I do if I lose my passport or wallet?

Reduce the risk by using the hotel safe and only take as much cash as you need when you go out.

Before you go on holiday, email your passport number to yourself – it will make life easier if you need a replacement. If your passport is lost, contact the British consulate or embassy straight away to get replacement travel documents.

If your valuables are stolen, let your tour rep know. They can help you report the incident to the local police – you’ll need to do this to claim on the insurance. Contact your bank to cancel any credit cards.

What should I do if I need medical treatment?

Before you go, apply for a free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which gets you free or reduced cost state healthcare in European Union countries (but not Turkey). Otherwise, you’ll need to pay for medical treatment. EHICs aren’t a replacement for travel insurance – they won’t cover the costs of flying you home in an emergency, for example.

Some Brits abroad end up in hospital after drinking too much. If you choose to drink alcohol, set yourself a limit.*  Eating food before you go out and drinking water between each alcoholic drink will help make sure you stay in control.

Can I use my mobile abroad?

There’s nothing worse than getting split up from your mates somewhere you don’t know, so make sure you have their numbers on your mobile. Using your phone abroad can be expensive, so see if your provider does a holiday call package and whether your phone will work at your destination.

Is it safe to drink the water?

Tap water is safe in most resorts but can be unpleasant if you’re not used to it – check with your tour rep if you’d be better off buying bottled water.

What will make you ill is not drinking enough water, so always take a bottle with you when you go out. If you do drink alcohol, make sure you have plenty of water and soft drinks to keep hydrated.

*The recommended limit is no more than 4 units on any one day for men and no more than 3 units on any day for women. A shot of vodka is 1 unit. A pint of 5% lager is 3 units. A standard 175ml glass of 13% white wine is 2.3 units.

What steps would you take to make sure you and your friends stay safe on holiday?

Page last updated by

Matthew Bateman, 07 May 2010.

Page checked on

29 Apr 2010