Finally, the d-day is around the corner, and you’re excited. But you’ve never been to England. You don’t know what to carry and how to get ready for the vacation. Flying to England is easy, especially if your documents are up-to-date and in order. You won’t go through unnecessary safety precautions. You won’t have to fill a passenger locator or go through any Covid-19-related tests and restrictions. You only need money to sustain you during the vacation, an airline ticket, a pass, and an updated passport. It’s easy peasy.
So, let’s look at how you can be England-ready and have a hassle-free vacation.
Check Your Documents and Finances
You’ll need a valid passport or documents to fly into England.
You need to get a visitor visa if you’re traveling to England for a short stay or leisure. Since it’s a vacation, get a standard visitor visa. The visa lets you stay in England for six months. It costs about £100. But the requirements for a visit visa may vary depending on your nationality. So, check if you require a visitor visa before applying for a visa.
Before you access the visa, you should show that you can support yourself or your family if you’re traveling with them. You comfortably sustain yourself while in England and afford to finance your return once it’s time to leave England. Therefore, have cash in hand when you touch down and some in the bank. You won’t have a problem accessing ATMs. But remember to inform your bank that you’ll be using your card or withdrawing cash overseas.
Give Your Immunity a Boost
Covid-19 cases are still rampant. Therefore, get vaccines or update your vaccination before hopping onto that plane. You may have to book a Covid-19 PRC test to be on the safer side. How about your routine vaccines? Are they updated? If not, please bring them up-to-date. If you’re planning to visit small villages in England or participate in adventurous eating during your trip, get a Hepatitis A vaccine. Don’t forget the measles vaccine if you’re traveling with an infant. It’s also advisable to get a rabies vaccine.
Also, pack your supplements and a refillable water bottle.
Pack Some Versatile Clothing
England’s weather can change at any moment. If you’re traveling during the summer, pack some fancy summer dresses, light-weight shoes, shorts, t-shirts, and skirts. You’ll need warm layering to keep warm. Remember, the temperature may range between 17°C - 25°C. Pack swimwear for pool or beach days, sunscreen, and insect repellants.
Temperatures fall to 12°C - 20°C during fall and spring. Therefore, pack some warm clothing. Layer your clothing. Long-sleeved dresses, T-shirts, tops, and blouses will be great. Also, pack a few skirts and pants. If it gets warmer, you can easily take off a few layers. Comfortable shoes or sandals can work for these seasons.
It gets too cold during the winter. So pack warm, heavy, and layered clothes. Include warm accessories and shoes.
Buy Tickets and Reservation in Advance
Using public means as you travel around England can be unpleasant. They are available and easier for the locals. But as a visitor, it’s challenging. It’s challenging to know how much you’re supposed to pay and your destinations. Before boarding the plane, read up and familiarize yourself with public transportation etiquette. You also need to understand the transportation system. Buy your train ticket or bus tours in advance. Also, make your reservations before heading out. It’s cheaper and free of hassles.
Trip Coverage
You’re not required to have any traveling insurance when visiting England. But remember, your health insurance may not work if you become sick or get injured during your trip. Therefore, it’s a good idea to get trip coverage. You can pay for a single medical cover. You can also get a comprehensive cover that may insure your health, the cost of your trip, lost luggage, or a canceled trip.
Concluding Thoughts
Communicating your needs is a must if you want your family trip to be more manageable. It’s not uncommon for those in the hospitality industry to provide special accommodations for families with children with special needs. All you need to do is ask in advance, so they can make the necessary preparations. If you’re traveling by air, make sure to properly communicate the situation to flight attendants, so they’re aware and can be of better assistance to you and your family.
Post Written By: Lisa Mottins