School’s
(almost) out for summer and we’re now entering the peak holiday season.

If
you’re like me then you’ll always have that feeling like you’ve forgotten
something, swim shorts – check, beach towel – check, toothbrush…

Whether
you’re heading for some fun in France, sunning it up in Spain or cruising the
Canaries, we’ve put together our list of 12 essential items that you need to
pack for your summer holiday.

1. Sun cream

The
British Skin Foundation recommends using a sun cream of SPF30 or higher.

Always
remember to check the bottle for the UVA rating. The stars range from 0-5 and
indicate what percentage of UVA rays are absorbed by the sun cream in
comparison to UVB. The higher the better.

2. Insect
repellent

If
you’re prone to being bitten by critters then you’ll know how essential insect
repellent is.

Those
with sensitive skin should try to find a natural deet-free repellent or use an
insect repellent band, this should mean that you avoid any skin irritation.

3.
Sunglasses

Protect
your eyes from the glare of the sun, and they make you look cool!

Look
for a pair with UVA and UVB protection, a good pair of sunglasses can reduce
your risk of developing cataracts as well as macular degeneration.

4. A hat

Protect
your hair from the damaging effects of the sun with a stylish hat.

It
can be difficult to apply sun cream to your head (unless you’re bald of
course), a hat can protect your scalp and prevent itchy, flaky skin and
soreness.

5. A good
book

Reading
can reduce your stress levels and improve your attention span.

Packing
a bestseller or your e-reader is a great way to help you drift off to sleep
when you’re lazing on the beach or around the pool all day.

6. Travel
adapter plug

It’s
easy to forget a travel adapter when you’re focused on packing the
‘essentials’.

The
price of travel adapters in the airport can be extortionate, but you can
generally pick one up in the supermarket for a couple of pound.

7. A
sealable plastic bags for toiletries

If
you’re planning on taking liquids in your hand luggage, don’t forget a sealable
bag.

Each
container should hold no more than 100ml and they should all fit into a clear
plastic bag approximately 20cm x 20cm.

8.
Medication

If
you need to take your medicine onto your flight we recommend that you request
this in writing from your GP.

It’s
handy to take a copy of your prescription to cover you if you accidently lose
your medication. We’d also recommend taking spares just in case you’re delayed.

9. Travel
money

Check
what currency is accepted prior to travelling.

Be
cautious of airport exchange rates as these are generally the worst rates that
you can get, consider a travel money card as the currency can easily be
exchanged should you have any left over spending money.

10. Passport

One
of the most important documents you need to remember.

Without
your passport, the only place that you’ll be going is home! Check your passport
well in advance and make sure that it’s valid for at least three months from
your date of travel.

11. Tickets
/ Booking confirmations

It’s
always handy to take a copy of your travel tickets and booking confirmations
with you.

If
you’re traveling with e-tickets make sure your phone or tablet is fully charged
before you leave for the airport.

12. EHIC
(European Health Insurance Card)

If
you’re travelling in Europe check that your EHIC is valid, they’re usually
valid for 5 years.

An
EHIC is not a replacement for travel insurance and will not cover you if you
need to be repatriated back to the UK, but it will usually cover your excess if
you show it prior to receiving treatment.

Apply for an EHIC HERE >

13. Travel
insurance

Last
but not least, remember your travel insurance!

Here
are five
things you might not know about travel insurance >

We
compare insurers to save you money, you can get a quote by calling us on 0800
294 2969 or compare prices online >

If
you’ve never been insured with us before here are five
Reasons to choose Just Travel Cover >

​

Get a Quote online >