Check the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) travel advice. www.fco.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo

Make a note of the address and telephone number of the local British Embassy, High Commission or Consulate before you go on holiday. This information can be found at http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travelling-and-living-overseas/.

Buy a Travel insurance policy, with appropriate cover for your holiday.

Get a good guidebook so you can find out about the area in which you are staying, local laws and customs.

Ensure you have a valid passport and the necessary visas.

Check what vaccinations you need at least 6 weeks before you go www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk

Check to see if you need to take any extra health precautions www.nhs.uk

Make sure your travel agent is an ABTA member and, if flying, make sure your holiday package is ATOL protected.

Make copies of your passport, ticket details, travel insurance schedule and 24hr emergency assistance telephone number. Leave the copies with your family and/or friends.

Take enough money for your trip and some back-up funds e.g. travellers cheques, sterling, or US dollars.

Leave a copy of your itinerary and a way of contacting you with family and/or friends.