Abta is urging holidaymakers to double check they have the right Covid-19 documentation ahead of the main summer rush abroad.
In a message issued to consumers today (Friday), the travel association advised people to go through a final checklist of actions to make sure they have got everything in place for their summer holidays, including reviewing latest Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office travel advice.
Abta said: “While many overseas destinations have relaxed or removed their Covid-19 requirements, some of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations, including Spain and France, do still have restrictions in place.
“Both these destinations require visitors aged 12 and over to present either proof of vaccination, proof of recovery or a negative test for entry, so Abta is encouraging travellers to double check they’ve got the right Covid-19 documents and have them ready for check-in.
“As many holidaymakers will be heading to Europe for the first time since the UK left the European Union, Abta is also reminding holidaymakers of the differences they need to be aware of and prepare for, before they head to their favourite European destinations.
“This includes checking if there are additional charges to use their mobile phone while abroad, making sure they don’t take any items that contain milk or meat into the EU and being aware that they will need to use the non-EU visitor lanes when passing through passport control.”
The year’s peak travel period is set to begin next Friday (July 22) when many schools break up for the summer holidays.
Abta communications director Graeme Buck said: “This summer is set to be the busiest travel period since the pandemic began, with families in particular making the most of the school holidays to enjoy an overseas break. Following our checklist will help make journeys as smooth as possible.
“This includes keeping a close eye on the latest Covid-19 requirements for your holiday as your departure date nears to make sure you have everything you need.
“It’s especially important that families travelling to Spain or France, where some Covid-19 restrictions are still in place, have read the FCDO travel advice and are clear on the documentation that each member of their family will need to present for entry.”