Your checklist of essentials

CHECK the Foreign & Commonwealth Office website (gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice) for the ‘do’s and don’ts’ of the country you are visiting.

ENSURE you have a passport that will remain valid for your entire trip.

MAKE sure you have required jabs and inoculations at least eight weeks before travel.

BOOK through a reputable gap-year travel company and make sure the firm is ABTA or ATOL registered.

KEEP scanned copies of your important documents online. Also leave copies at home with a family member.

KEEP a list of emergency numbers in a safe place.

RESEARCH your destination carefully. This includes local laws, driving and culture.