Have you remembered everything?

Maybe your passport has been tucked away in a drawer since 2019. If it’s been a while since you last had it out, it’s a good idea to check if it’s expired.

While you’re at it, it’s also a good idea to find your blue EU health insurance card and check that it’s still valid. The blue card gives access to treatment on an equal footing with citizens of the country concerned, but it does not cover a possible journey home. So, your insurance will also need a check before you can go on holiday.

Check how you are insured
“When planning your holiday, you might not think about the possibility of getting ill or injured. But it’s a good idea to find out what your insurance covers because once the injury has happened or you have become ill, it can be expensive not to be insured,” says Karin Tranberg, EVP of Travelcare at SOS International.

If you have an accident during your summer holidays and need treatment, it’s essential to know whom to contact for help:

“It’s important to call the alarm centre first, and we can refer you to the most appropriate treatment centre. Our doctors will ensure that the treatment recommended where you are is correct,” says Karin Tranberg, pointing out that there is an increased risk after a long period without tourists of overbilling and overtreatment.

The checklist that can make a difference:

• Passport - is it valid?
• Blue EU health insurance card: remember to bring it, and check if it’s still valid
• Travel insurance - do you have insurance that covers travel?
  Please check if transport to bring you home is covered
• Check waiting times at the airport - insurance typically doesn’t cover you if you miss your flight due to a long wait at security
• The telephone number for the alarm centre
• Check if there are COVID restrictions and testing requirements at the destination

Are you going by car? See the advice from SOS Internationals psychologist about mental preparations