Summer your way: Practical tips for a smoother holiday

Summer your way in 2026, whether that means a relaxing beach break, a family holiday, a golf getaway, a scenic cruise or several trips throughout the year. Whatever your plans, a little preparation can go a long way. From checking your passport and destination requirements to making sure you have travel insurance that meets your needs, taking care of the practical side can help you feel better prepared if something unexpected happens.

Travel essentials:

• Passports and travel documents
• Boarding passes and accommodation confirmations
• Travel insurance details
• EHIC/GHIC cards
• Bank cards and a small amount of local currency

Useful extras:

• Power bank and charging cables
• Reusable water bottle
• Lightweight layers
• Prescription medication
• Copies of important documents stored securely online

Planning for different types of holidays

From golf breaks and cruises, to beach holidays and city escapes, every trip comes with its own practical considerations.

Before you set off, check any entry requirements for your destination and confirm bookings for activities or excursions in advance. If you are planning more than one holiday this year, keeping your documents organised and saved digitally can make preparing for each trip quicker and easier.

Staying organised while you travel

Summer is one of the busiest times to travel, and airports, ports, and transport hubs can be more crowded than usual.

Aim to arrive early and allow extra time for check-in, security and possible delays. Keep essential items in your hand luggage, including chargers, medication and toiletries, so they are easy to access if your plans are disrupted.

If you are travelling to Europe, remember that the new Entry/Exit System (EES) is in place. You can find more information about how this works here. You may need to allow extra time to complete these checks on departure and on your return.

Protecting gadgets and valuables

Your phone and devices are likely to be some of your most useful items whilst travelling. From maps, photos, entertainment and booking confirmations, they can play an important role throughout your trip.

To reduce the risk of loss or theft, keep valuable items in your hand luggage, use hotel safes where available and avoid leaving devices unattended. Having apps like Find My iPhone or Find My Device can help make it easier to locate missing items.

Why does travel insurance matter?

Travel insurance can help cover certain unexpected events, depending on the policy selected and subject to terms, conditions, and exclusions. Before you purchase a policy, check that the cover is suitable for your destination, length of your trip, and any activities you intend to take part in.

If you decide to travel, make sure you consider Topdog Travel Insurance as part of your plans.

Wherever summer takes you, make sure you have travel insurance that suits your needs.