George has extensive experience in the insurance industry and a deep understanding of the challenges travellers face, especially those with pre-existing medical conditions.
There is a distinct feeling that arrives in January. The festive lights have come down, the weather is often grey, and the television is suddenly full of adverts showing turquoise waters and golden sands. It is natural to start dreaming of a getaway.
For many of us, the anticipation of a holiday is almost as enjoyable as the trip itself. Having a date in the diary gives us something to look forward to through the colder months. But while it is tempting to book the first deal that pops up online, seasoned travellers know that a truly relaxing holiday starts long before you pack your suitcase.
Planning a trip, especially when we are a little older or managing health conditions, requires a different approach than the backpacking trips of our youth. It is less about "winging it" and more about ensuring everything goes smoothly.
If you are looking to book your next adventure, here are five things experienced travellers consider first to ensure their holiday is memorable for all the right reasons.
1. Timing is everything
When we think about booking a holiday, the destination usually comes first. However, when you go is often just as important as where you go.
For those of us who are no longer restricted by school term times, the "shoulder seasons" (typically May, June, September, and October) are often the sweet spot for European travel. Experienced travellers often favour these months for several practical reasons:
- More comfortable temperatures: High summer heat in places like Spain, Greece, or Turkey can be intense, sometimes reaching 40°C. If you are managing heart conditions or respiratory issues, extreme heat can be uncomfortable or even risky. Travelling in spring or autumn allows you to enjoy the sunshine without the sweltering extremes.
- Fewer crowds: Navigating busy airports or packed tourist sites can be stressful. Travelling outside of peak times usually means a more relaxed pace, easier access to attractions, and a calmer atmosphere.
- Better value: Flight and accommodation prices often drop significantly outside of the school holidays, allowing your budget to stretch further.
2. The pace of the trip
It is easy to get carried away reading guidebooks that suggest cramming five cities into seven days. But a holiday should be restorative, not exhausting.
As we gain experience in travel, we often learn that doing less can actually mean enjoying more. Thinking about the pace of your trip early on helps you choose the right type of holiday.
Ask yourself what you really need from this break. Are you looking to explore on foot for hours every day, or would you prefer a base where you can relax by the pool?
This is where understanding your mobility and energy levels is vital. For example, a river cruise might offer the perfect balance - you get to see multiple destinations without the hassle of packing and unpacking, and you can often watch the scenery go by from the comfort of your cabin if you need a rest day.
3. Budgeting for the 'whole' holiday
When browsing online, the price we see in big bold letters is rarely the final cost of the trip. Experienced planners look beyond the flight and hotel package to understand the total cost involved.
It is worth sitting down and sketching out a rough budget that includes:
- Transfers: How are you getting from the airport to your accommodation? A private taxi is easier but more expensive than a shuttle bus.
- Excursions: Entry fees for museums, galleries, or guided tours can add up quickly.
- Dining out: Will you be eating out every night, or does your accommodation offer half-board options?
- Travel Insurance: This is a vital part of the budget, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions. The cost of cover can vary depending on where you are going (USA, Canada and the Caribbean are often more expensive for medical cover than Europe), so it is wise to factor this in early.
By having a realistic view of the total cost, you can relax and enjoy your time away without worrying about the bill at the end.
4. Booking insurance early
One of the most common mistakes travellers make is leaving travel insurance until the last minute, sometimes buying it just days before they fly.
However, travel insurance is not just there to help you while you are away; it is there to protect you before you even leave the house.
Cancellation cover starts immediately
The moment you buy a policy, your cancellation cover begins (provided your trip starts within the policy limits). If you book a holiday in January for a trip in September, but you fall ill in March and cannot travel, a policy bought in January could cover your lost costs. If you waited until August to buy insurance, you would be left out of pocket.
Avoiding the rush with medical conditions
If you have pre-existing medical conditions, sorting out your cover early is even more important. It gives you the time to find the right policy without feeling pressured.
You will need to tell your insurance provider about your medical history - usually, this involves answering questions about conditions you have been diagnosed with, take medication for, or have seen a doctor about recently. Doing this well in advance means you can compare quotes calmly and ensure you have answered everything accurately.
At Medical Travel Compared, we help you check prices from over 30 specialist providers, making it easier to find a policy that covers your specific needs.
5. Preparing for new travel rules
Travel has changed a little in recent years, and keeping an eye on the rules is a sign of a seasoned traveller.
For trips to Europe, keep in mind that the EU is introducing the Entry/Exit System (EES). This will replace passport stamping with a digital check. It shouldn't change much for your holiday enjoyment, but being aware of it can help you feel more prepared at border control.
Additionally, always check your passport expiry date. Since leaving the EU, the rules for UK travellers visiting Europe have tightened. Your passport generally needs to be:
- Issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country.
- Valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave.
Checking this in January gives you plenty of time to renew if necessary, avoiding a panic later in the year.
Looking forward to your holiday
Planning a holiday is the first step toward a wonderful experience. By thinking about timing, pacing, and protection early on, you remove the stress and leave room for the excitement to build.
There is a great comfort in knowing that your trip is booked, your budget is set, and your travel insurance is sorted. It means you can spend the coming months simply looking forward to the sunshine.
If you are ready to tick one big job off your list, we are here to help. You can compare quotes for specialist medical travel insurance in minutes, giving you the confidence to travel with peace of mind.