Last-minute Travel: Why You Should Always Be Prepared
While holidays can take months and months of planning, regular travellers may find it just that little bit easier to head off on a last-minute excursion. Good practice and a few unfortunate cases of trial and error mean that most of us know exactly what we will and won’t need.
After a while, packing the rucksack and booking the tickets becomes less hassle and more part of the exciting travel routine.
Hopefully, this will give you something to think about and get you on the road to being a well-prepared traveller!
Pack Light
The secret to a quick getaway is knowing exactly what you need to take with you – plenty of seasoned travellers still have a well-worn and heavily amended “travel checklist” to make packing easier. Make sure you include clothes suitable for all climates, just in case!
Keep Document Copies Stashed Away
An annual travel insurance plan is smart if you’re prone to travelling around a lot. Keep copies of all travel documentation somewhere in the country, preferably with a friend or family member, so you don’t have to panic if you can’t find something at the eleventh hour.
Know Where to Book
Cheap flights can be found across the web these days – do some searching now and bookmark some of the best websites for travel and accommodation, but don’t choose any Airbnb property; make sure to opt for one that’s co-hosted by professionals to ensure clean, safe and protected spaces (yes! Airbnb management in London is a thing).
That way, you can compare prices much more efficiently when you’ve decided where you want to go.
Stay Healthy
Ensure you have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if you’re travelling through Europe, and make sure your travel insurance covers you.
While you will need vaccinations, it’s worth picking up things like malaria tablets for the journey – if you don’t have time to go to the chemist, you can even order your prescription online from Lloydspharmacy.
How to stay healthy on your travels
| Consult a check with doctor prior |
| Drink plenty of water |
| Incorporate exercise |
| Ensure vaccinations are up to date |
| Protect your skin |
| Wash hands often |
| Get insurance |
Know Your Destination
Make sure you have at least a basic understanding of where you’re going so you know what to expect in terms of climate, attitudes, and cost of living.
Remember that late bookings can sometimes mean you get the last choice in hotel rooms and hostels, so do your research to ensure you spend your downtime in clean and comfortable accommodation.