Next week’s school half term follows the school year’s longest stretch without a break and families across the UK will be heading away to catch some final rays of summer sun before the chill of winter sets in.

Spending time with children and grandchildren is very rewarding, but it can be challenging too; in this week’s travel blog we look at 10 top tips to make sure that everything goes to plan and the whole family enjoys the break.

The key is in the planning…

1. Involve everyone – especially the kids!

2. Make a joint decision on the length of the trip (and where to go).

3. Once you have decided on your destination, plan your excursions and try to cover off something that will entertain everyone.

Documents

4. Check passport expiry dates to avoid last-minute dramas.

5. Renew your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) online.

6. Print all of your travel documents well in advance.

7. The Home Office advises that you should have evidence of your relationship to the child, so maybe take a photocopy of their birth certificate and/or a written letter of consent, you can use this free template to help.

Essentials

8. If kids, parents or grandparents are travelling with medical conditions remember your medication and take a copy of your prescription too.

9. Don’t leave your packing until the last minute – don’t underestimate the sun at this time of year and take your sun cream.

10. Arrange family travel insurance – we can help with that.

Already booked your next trip?

We would recommend you arrange your family travel insurance as soon as you have paid any money towards your holiday. Cancellation cover starts straight away so you will have protection should you need to cancel your trip.

If anyone has medical conditions we’ll take you through our easy screening process and we can add the rest of the family onto the same policy too.

You will have peace of mind that any medical emergencies are covered before or during your trip, and while away you will also be covered your baggage if the unfortunate happens and it becomes lost or is stolen.

You can arrange your travel insuranceonlineor alternatively call ouraward winning customer service staff on 0800 294 2969 and we can recommend that correct policy to suit your needs.

We specialise in providing cover for those with pre-existing medical conditions. Our single trip insurance policies have no age limits and we have a panel of insurers, saving you time shopping around and money.

We hope you enjoy your next trip.