The summer holidays are here and with many Brits getting set to jet off, there are some checks that would ensure a smooth holiday process well in advance to avoid any disappointment.
Whilst you so desperately remember and cling to your passport being the most important item in the bag, it would be wise to actually check its validity. 25% of Brits admit they never check the validity of their passport when booking a trip.
This could be a huge disruption to the holiday ahead as you can get turned away for more than the passport just being expired, but it is a hefty cost overall just to only be sent on your way back home with all that money spent on the holiday you were looking forward to.
Recently, Google searches for “holiday checklist” have soared by 105% in the past month as travellers prepare for their summer holiday plans.
To avoid stress or disappointment, Travel Republic have revealed three key checks every traveller should make before heading on a last-minute holiday this summer.
3 MUST-DO passport checks before you travel this summer
Check your passport was issued less than 10 years before your departure date
Those travelling to any country in the EU, or Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein and Switzerland should ensure their passports were issued less than 10 years before their departure dates.
For example, if you are flying on 10 July 2025, your passport must have been issued after 10 July 2015. This rule applies regardless of the passport’s expiry date.
Ensure you have at least 3 months’ validity from your return date
Your passport must also be valid for at least three months after your intended return date when travelling to Europe or the Schengen area.
For example, if you return home on 1 August 2025, your passport must be valid until at least 1 November 2025.
Make sure your passport is undamaged and readable
A passport must be in good physical condition to be accepted. Even minor damage can cause issues at check-in or border control.
Renew your passport early to avoid disruptions
With thousands of UK travellers experiencing airport heartbreak over the last year due to non-compliant passports, checking your documents ahead of summer travel plans is essential.
If your passport doesn’t meet the updated rules and outlined conditions, renewing early could be the key to a seamless getaway instead of missing out on your long-awaited trip.
Gemma Brown, Head of Ground Product & Partnerships at Travel Republic, commented: “The likelihood is that travel insurance providers would not cover any costs associated with invalid or expired passports, as it’s down to the traveller to triple-check their documentation is correct.
“Our advice would be to ensure that your passport is within the 10-year issue date and is valid for at least six months from the date of departure to ensure you will be accepted into most countries. Regardless of passport rules, it’s important for all travellers to research the country they plan to visit and ensure they know what travel documentation is required upon entering and leaving. You can find foreign travel advice on the government website to make sure you have everything covered.”