Ready to go?
You’ve researched your resort, browsed different accommodations and booked your perfect break. 😎
Now, it’s time to start sorting out those holiday extras to make sure your trip runs super smoothly.
No matter your destination, we're here to help you get everything ready for your getaway. 💺
We offer a range of services in each of our 13 travel branches – just pop into your nearest branch and our expert colleagues can help you book, pack and go!
Destination information
Our travel experts can help you with the details and any questions you may have about your chosen destination. You can find information and advice for over 200 destinations on the Government's website. Read the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice |
Travel documents
Passports, visas, health cards and more. Our travel experts can help you to put together all the documents you need for your trip. |
Passports
Check the date your passport expires.
When travelling to the EU the UK government recommends that you have at least six months left on your passport. Remember, renewing your passport can often take up to 10 weeks.
The validity is now counted from the issue date, not the expiry date.
This is because if you renew your passport early, they would have added the extra months onto your new passport, however, these extra months no longer count.
For example:
A passport issued on the 12th March 2014 and expires on the 12th December 2024, your passport is now only valid until the 12th March 2024. This is 10 years from the issue date.
How much time you need on your passport depends on the country you’re visiting. Check Foreign Office travel advice for the country you want to travel to – read the entry requirements section.
You can renew your passport online or by using the Post Office’s check and send service. If you need help, visit your local post office they'll be able to help you with passport applications and renewals.
Find more guidance about passports on the ABTA website.
You may wish to renew your passport sooner rather than later to make sure you have it in time for your holiday.
UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)
If you're travelling in Europe, do you have a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)?
The UK has reached a new agreement on healthcare when visiting the EU. The new Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) card has replaced the old European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
More information about the GHIC can be found on the government website.
You can apply for your free GHIC on the NHS website.
You can also find information and how to apply by typing GHIC into your search engine. Please be aware of unofficial websites, they may charge if you apply through them.
A GHIC is free of charge.
Driving Licences and permits
You need to take your driving licence with you to drive abroad. Check yours will be valid while you're away.
You can get help renewing your driving licence at your local post office.
In some countries, you may need an international driving permit (IDP). If you are travelling in or between different countries you may need more than one permit to comply with the law.
If you are taking your own vehicle check with your insurer what is covered under your policy when abroad.
Find more information about driving abroad on the government website.
Travel Insurance
We recommend you take out comprehensive travel insurance as soon as you book your holiday. We can help get you covered, from insuring your best camera to making sure you’re looked after if your holiday is affected by Covid-19.
Always check your policy details and make sure all your specific needs are covered to ensure peace of mind and maximum enjoyment. |
Travel vaccines and antimalarials
If you've booked a break outside of the UK, you might need to be vaccinated or take anti-malarial medication to help protect you against some serious diseases found in other parts of the world. We recommend you talk to your local participating pharmacy at least 6 to 8 weeks before you're due to travel as some vaccinations require more than one injection over a few weeks. Find out what vaccines or health services you might need and where to get them here. |
Airport hotels and parking
Early flight or late arrival back? Take the stress out of travelling and book an airport hotel to make it easy. We can arrange accommodation to suit every budget. Booking parking in advance reduces hassle on the day and often saves cash – put what you save towards an extra treat on your break. Plus, if you’re a Lincolnshire Co-op dividend card holder you’ll receive cashback on your booking. |
Executive lounges
Relax, avoid the crowds and book a lounge pass at your chosen airport. Often offering services like comfy seating, free WiFi, drinks, food and snacks, a lounge means your holiday starts much sooner. |
Travel money
Wherever you’re traveling, we can offer great commission-free deals on currency. Just pop into your local branch and ask for today’s rates. If you’re a Lincolnshire Co-op member, you can also use your cashback and cashback bonus to buy currency. That’s a couple of ice creams on us. |
Car hire
If you want to explore your holiday destination or travel independently from the airport, hiring a car might be on your ‘to-do’ list. It’s worth booking in advance to secure the best deals and choice of vehicles. It will also save you valuable time while you’re away – giving you back an extra hour on the beach, in the pool or watching the world go by. Remember to check your driving licence is in date and that in some countries, you may need an international driving permit (IDP).
|
Attractions and experiences
|
Don’t miss the must-see sights or once-in-a-lifetime experiences when you’re away. We work with different specialists to pre-book a range of excursions and experiences so all you need to worry about when you’re on holiday is enjoying them. Whether you’d like to tour ancient Mayan sites in Mexico, visit iconic football grounds in Spain or seek thrills and spills at a Florida theme park, we can help.
|
Don't forget!
There are a few other things we think its important to be aware of before setting off. |
Luggage
Make sure your luggage complies with your airline's rules.
Don’t
forget, there are still rules around what you can and can’t carry in your hand
luggage e.g. any liquids you’re taking must be in containers of 100ml or less
and placed inside a 20cm x 20cm plastic bag.
When
going through security, these liquids and large electrical items like laptops
and tablets will need to be taken out and placed in the security tray alongside
your hand luggage, and you’ll need to remove certain items of clothing, like
coats, belts and boots.
Check what rules apply to the airport you’ll be
travelling through and read more about the restrictions.
Electronics and communication
Don't forget to pack your chargers and adaptors, we recommend packing them in your hand luggage, just in case.
Check with your mobile service provider about international roaming plans or consider purchasing a local SIM card for data and calls. When in doubt, turn off data roaming in your device settings. You don't want to return home to a huge phone bil
Health
Lincolnshire Co-op runs 47 pharmacies that offer free advice on vaccinations, anti-malarial medication and the first aid supplies you need for your trip. We recommend you take a first aid kit with you.
Don't forget to pack any prescription medications you require, along with copies of your prescriptions.
Still unsure?
If you have any queries or concerns about your holiday our travel experts are here to help. They will be able to offer further guidance and the most up-to-date information so you can travel with confidence. |