How to improve your holiday experience

How can you improve your holiday experience?

Obviously it does depend greatly on what you expect from your break and the amount of money that you're able to spend, but it may be worth considering the following points before and after booking your vacation.

What do you like doing?

If you're an active person, it may not be the best of ideas to book a holiday where there is not much to do other than sunbathe by the pool.  Are there particular activities that you'd like to do in the resort or the immediate locality? Are excursions available to enjoy areas further afield from your base? 

Read the small print of the holiday and hotel description for any potential problems and pitfalls with what's provided.  Do your research on line and see what previous guests have reported. How may what you find affect your ability to enjoy your own interests?

What can I afford?

None of us like spending more than we have to, and often strive to secure that bargain.  Do always question why a particular holiday is cheaper than would seem reasonable for what you're getting.  Is there a problem with the hotel? Is access poor? Are the hotel amenities below standard? Will you be a long way from local transport? Again thorough research before booking may help you avoid problems or at the very least understand what you'll actually be getting.

Paying a bit extra for your package may make all the difference to your holiday experience.  You may even find that you save money through not having to pay locally for facilities that would be extra on the cheaper deal.

Plan your holiday

A bit of forward thinking can avoid tensions and frustration when you actually arrive at your destination, particularly if you're travelling with the family.  have a rough plan of what everyone would like to do so as to avoid arguments when you're there.

Arranging transfers to and from the airports in advance may prove cheaper than making local arrangements, plus you have the peace of mind coming from knowing that it's been done in advance.

Produce a checklist in getting ready for your holiday. This could include:

Ensuring your passports have at least 6 months validity left when you travel

If you're travelling in Europe have you got your European health Card

Arranging foreign currency

Checking the facilities and costs of using your mobile and tablet abroad - check that you won't come back to a nasty bill when you return

Check that your luggage is up to the journey. if it's not then visit Luggage UK for the latest lightweight models.  Don't forget that your case must have a TSA lock if you're travelling to the USA

Have you arranged your travel insurance?

Plan what you're taking with you to ensure that you meet any luggage weight restrictions.  Don't forget your camera!  Check limits on the size of cabin luggage

Immediately before you travel have you printed off your documents?

Don't forget to check in on line!

When you travel

A luggage strap is a great way of providing extra security for your case, and can help in quickly identifying your case on the carousel.

Security wallets can help ensure that you don't fall victim to opportunistic pickpockets when your away.

Always ensure that you attach tags to your luggage for identification, but use the type where you have a flap to hide your details from casual onlookers.

Neck pillows, DVT socks and eye masks can help reduce the fatigue of undertaking a long flight.

Make sure that toiletries are carried in the correct containers to comply with security rules

Always check your airlines cabin luggage dimensions and any restrictions for luggage being checked into the hold.

You can order your travel accessories by clicking here

ALWAYS inspect your luggage as you collect it from the carousel for any signs of damage that wasn't there when you checked your bags in.  The airlines are always responsible for damage caused when they have your bags in their custody and you must claim from the airline there and then - DO NOT wait until alter as you may be disappointed.  The warranty on your bag or suitcase specifically excludes airline damage, and will not help you in this respect.

When you arrive

Firstly - make sure you enjoy yourself - you've worked hard to enjoy your break!

When you leave your room, consider making use of the hotel safe to avoid taking valuables and excess money with you when you may not be able to properly protect them - ie on the beach

If you find there are any problems with the hotel make the manager and your holiday representative aware - it's a very good idea to take pictures and make notes so that in the event you need to make a claim on your return you'll have all the information and evidence to hand. 

Make sure that you're aware of any local customs and rules - if tipping is the norm you may find you have problems if you don't. Don't forget that behaviour that is acceptable in the UK may not be in other countries!

Watch out for confidence tricksters in the main holiday resorts and hot spots - the locals can recognise a tourist and some may be looking for the opportunity to overcharge you or worse!

Ensure you're familiar with the look and value of the local currency, and always check your change!

Finally

Arrive back refreshed after your break!