Everything you need to know before traveling abroad in 2021

The world is slowly opening up again, with ever-changing rules put in place to keep people safe. As the weather turns cold and rainy, and the world opens up for travel, you might be considering going abroad. Even if you have previously traveled, in 2021, travel is quite different and there is a lot to remember and check before you should make your way to a new country. With so much to know, I figured I would share with you a list of everything you need to know before traveling abroad in 2021. With Covid and Brexit, there is a lot to keep in mind.

Before you book

Before you even start booking up your holiday, you should spend some time checking over your documents. Chances are, you haven’t touched your passport in a few years – so it’s good to double check that your passport is in date. Some countries, like in the Schengen Area, have new rules now that England has left the EU – requiring passports to be less then 10 years old on the day of travel. These rules are good to be aware of and know of, so that you don’t ended up being unable to actually travel.

Along with checking out your passport, you should check your health insurance card. If you have a European Health Insurance Card that isn’t out of date, it will work as normal. If it is out of date, you will need to get a Global Health Insurance Card from the NHS, which allows UK residents access to reduced or even free healthcare in most European countries, which is well needed when it comes to travel, even if it’s just in case something goes wrong!

Next, you will want to check the status of the country you are traveling too. The UK has a greenlight system, with more restrictions on red or amber countries, which are deemed less safe then green. A great destination at the time of writing this is Greece, a country that Jet2Holidays has recommended as a destination! Greece is currently in the Green category, meaning that it’s pretty easy to travel there. You will need to have a Negative COVID-19 PCR Test taken within 72 hours of arrival, or a negative COVID-19 rapid antigen test from a lab, taken within 48 hours before you arrive, or proof of being double vaccinated at least 14 days before travel. Do note, you should get your NHS Passport to prove this, not the little card you are given when you got your vaccine.

Before your Flight

A few days before your flight, you will want to double check to ensure that you are following all of the rules required for travel, as well as download your paperwork for the travel date. Most flights now require a Passenger Locator Form, and some areas might require testing when you land, but that’s down to the individual country. You will want to pack your mask, as they are required in most flights, as well as everything you would normally bring! Don’t forget to double check your suitcases and arrange a ride to the airport, as you’ll probably be super excited to get on your way.

Why Greece

As previously mentioned Greece is a really wonderful travel destination! If you are looking to take off right away, you can grab a last minute flight, as long as you are vaccinated, and just get on your way. There isn’t as much faffing around as there are with amber and red light countries, which is really a good reason to pick Greece. Greece is known for it’s amazing beaches and clear, blue water. There are tons of beautiful buildings to explore, amazing views of the sunset, and the weather is warm – inviting you to the vacation you probably have been waiting ages to take. Taking a flight to Greece is extremely affordable right now – you don’t need to break the bank to go on the holiday you deserve and have been waiting for! I can’t wait to continue to travel around and am really looking forward to travel to various countries, including the beautiful land in Greece.

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