For many countries, a passport needs to have at least six months of legitimacy left to get through border control.
The Home Office advises people to allow up to 10 weeks when applying for a British passport.
With two-thirds of Brits jetting off in July and August, a reminder has been issued to travellers to renew passports promptly if the expiration date is approaching to ensure they receive them in time for their summer holiday.
Other advice includes checking in online before arriving at the airport to avoid hefty airline fees and switching off international roaming to avoid a shocking bill.
Shahab Siddiqui, founder of FlightsFinder.com said: “Pre-departure jitters are completely normal when heading on an international trip, but being prepared will help to ease the nerves and ensure a stress free holiday.
“Covid-19 travel restrictions caused unprecedented levels of demand and sky high passport processing times, and it can now take up to 10 weeks to get a new passport.
“Those planning a getaway this summer must apply for a new passport as soon as possible if the expiration date is approaching.
“Tips to ensure the trip runs smoothly include researching the country’s passport validity rules before booking a trip and checking there are free passport stamp pages.”
Six essential travel tips for jet setters:
- Ensure passport validity
Ensure passport validity before booking a trip because soon-to-be expired passports can be denied in certain countries. Places like Asia and Africa require UK citizens to have six months of validity on their passport from the date of departure.
- Research Brexit changes
EU regulations now classify UK citizens as ‘third country nationals,’ meaning if a UK passport holder wants to visit the EU, there are new passport rules to follow. Travellers will need a passport issued within the previous 10 years, which is valid for at least three months from the date of departure.
- Check for free passport pages
Travellers must have at least two blank pages for stamps or it could invalidate the passport so be sure to check the pages before booking your trip.
- Hand luggage
Airlines have rigid hand luggage rules and customers are slapped with hefty fines if their bag is too large. Most airline measurements include wheels, but some say luggage wheels can’t add more than 5cm to the bag.
- Check-in
Many airlines require passengers to check-in online before departure. Europe’s biggest budget airline requires online check-in and submission of travel documents two hours before the flight. Failure to comply could cost passengers up to £55.
- Roaming costs
Mobile providers can charge a fortune to use a phone abroad, so it’s important to check roaming costs before travel. Try to switch off international roaming and use wifi, or arrange an international roaming add-on or pack before the trip.
