Holiday costs checklist

Post by Mearns & Company in News

Many Brits will take their first holiday to Europe this summer since Covid and the implementation of Brexit. Be aware of extra costs and additional paperwork requirements.

Do I need a visa?

Holidaymakers currently just need a UK passport to visit an EU country, but from May 2023 they will need an ETIAS visa waiver as well. This lasts three years and allows unlimited trips during this period.

Roaming charges

You may have to pay ‘roaming charges’ to use your phone in Europe. Vodafone, Three, Sky and EE all now impose these charges, which typically amount to £2 a day. Other providers, including Virgin, O2 and BT Mobile currently have no extra fees. Exact charges depend on the contract so check before travelling.

Covid costs?

Most European countries don’t require UK travellers to take a lateral flow test provided they’re fully vaccinated. The website reopen.europa.eu gives details of latest restrictions for each country.

Travel and health insurance

Travel insurance is always essential, particularly to cover medical bills. Some policies may offer cover should you need to cancel or delay arrangements due to Covid, but not all. European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) are still valid, if in date. Once these expire you’ll need the new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). This allows access to state healthcare in Europe at a reduced cost, or sometimes for free.