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Britons living abroad

Britons living abroad

Keep safe

When planning a trip or a longer stay in a foreign country, it's important to think about what to do in an emergency. Here are some basic safety tips to help you relax and enjoy your time abroad.

Safety tips:

  • check the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website or telephone 0870 606 0290 for information about the country to which you are going
  • buy travel insurance and check that the cover is appropriate
  • get a good guidebook and get to know your destination
  • find out about local laws and customs
  • ensure that you have a valid passport and necessary visas
  • check what vaccinations you need at least six weeks before you go
  • check to see if you need to take extra health precautions
  • make sure your travel agent is a member of the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) and, if flying, make sure your holiday package is financially protected by Air Travel Organisers' Licensing (ATOL)
  • make copies of your passport, insurance policy (including your insurer's and card protection's 24-hour emergency number) and ticket details - leave copies with family and friends
  • take enough money for your trip and some back-up funds, eg travellers cheques, sterling or US dollars
  • leave a copy of your itinerary and a way of contacting you, such as email, with family and friends

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