The ultimate holiday checklist:
10 things to sort before you fly

Don’t leave passport checks until the week before you travel. Entry requirements vary by destination, and some countries require at least six months’ validity remaining on your passport. For Schengen travel, your passport must generally have been issued within the last 10 years. It should remain valid for at least three months after you leave the Schengen area.

You may also need a visa or travel authorisation, such as an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), ETA, future ETIAS authorisation or Schengen visa. Apply early where needed, as approval times can vary.

Before you fly, save digital copies of your passport, travel insurance and booking confirmations. Check that your EHIC or GHIC is valid for your destination, but remember it does not replace travel insurance.

Travel insurance is one of the most important items on any holiday checklist. A good policy should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellation, lost or delayed baggage, and repatriation if you need to return to the UK unexpectedly.

Before buying, check the excess claim limits and exclusions carefully. You may need additional cover for cruises, winter sports, adventure activities, expensive equipment, or pre-existing medical conditions.

It's also worth checking whether your bank account or credit card includes travel insurance. Some packaged accounts offer annual multi-trip cover, but the level of protection, maximum trip length and eligibility rules can vary. Always read the policy details before you travel.

Explore travel insurance options

An eSIM is a digital SIM card activated using an eSIM QR code, so there is no physical card to swap. It can be a simple and cost-effective way to use mobile data abroad.

With a prepaid eSIM, you choose a data plan for your destination before you leave and activate it on a compatible, unlocked phone. On many dual-SIM devices, your usual number can remain active for calls and texts while the eSIM handles data.

Travelling from Manchester? Use the code MANSIM20 for 20% off eligible eSIM data plans. The offer is available for a limited time, so check the terms before purchasing.

Pre-booking airport parking can help you save money and avoid last-minute stress. Manchester Airport offers a range of official parking options to suit different budgets and trip lengths.

If you're not driving, plan ahead. Manchester Airport is well connected by train, tram, coach, bus, and taxi. Check timetables before you set off, especially for early-morning or late-night flights.

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A structured packing list helps you stay organised and avoid last-minute suitcase stress. Include:

• Documents and money

• Medication and health essentials

• Technology and travel adapters

• Clothing and footwear

• Toiletries

Before you travel, double-check commonly forgotten items such as chargers, prescription medicines, and toothbrushes. Weigh your luggage and confirm your airline’s baggage allowances.

At Manchester Airport, liquids, aerosols and gels in hand luggage must be in containers of 100ml or less. They can stay inside your bag and no longer need to go in a separate clear plastic bag. Rules may differ at your return airport, so check both journeys.

For full-sized toiletries, Terminal 2 passengers can order through Boots Click & Collect at least three days before travel. You can also reserve selected products through World Duty Free Reserve & Collect and pick them up after security.

Reserve airport essentials before you travel

Pre-booked extras can make your departure smoother. Security FastTrack gives you access to a dedicated security lane, while our airport lounges provide a quieter place to relax before your flight.

FastTrack is available in Terminals 2 and 3, with prices currently starting from £5.49 per person. Manchester Airport's Escape Lounge and The Executive by Escape Lounges offer food, drinks, Wi‑Fi and charging points away from busy departure gates. Prices, facilities and availability vary.

A quick home checklist can help prevent problems while you’re away:

• Turn off the mains water where appropriate

• Set light timers or smart plugs

• Leave spare keys with someone you trust

• Empty food that may spoil and take out the rubbish

• Lock windows, doors, sheds and garages

• Unplug non-essential electrical items

If you have pets, arrange boarding or a trusted sitter as soon as your travel dates are confirmed. Leave clear feeding and medication instructions, along with your vet’s details and an emergency contact number.

A flexible itinerary helps you make the most of your holiday without overplanning. Divide each day into morning, afternoon and evening, with no more than one main activity in each time slot.

Pre-book popular attractions, tours and restaurants that may sell out. Compare reviews and check cancellation policies to help manage your budget and avoid disappointment.

Leave the rest flexible. Save tickets, opening times and addresses offline, group nearby places together and build in some downtime on longer trips.