What should you do if you are at your holiday home and you get locked down in the middle of your holiday? With the opening up of sky corridors and the easing of travel restrictions, we’re able to enjoy a holiday abroad. And while the situation is still uncertain, we’re able to visit our holiday homes and enjoy all the benefits of caravan ownership.
Read on to find out what choices you should be making to enjoy a relaxing break in our lodges and holiday homes?
Find out what’s happening locally
Even if you don’t speak the language very well, you should be able to find a local website that you can translate with the aid of Google. It’s also worth asking the management of your site to explain what social distancing and hygiene methods are currently in place. You can also contact the nearest British Embassy or consulate for help and advice on what to do if you get locked down. Remember, you can be fined if you don’t wear a mask in some countries so make sure you pack a pack of disposables or washables before you head from your holiday home.
Check your EHIC card
You can still use your EHIC card in Europe, so make sure it’s valid before you travel and update it if not. This entitles you to emergency treatment if you catch Covid-19 abroad. You should also check whether your travel insurance is currently covering costs associated with Covid-19 including healthcare and repatriation. Make sure you know the local procedures for testing and getting treatment – your site management team should be able to help.
Sign up for updates
Remember that the situation is fluid and can change at any time, so make sure you sign up for travel alerts at the Gov.UK website. This is packed with information for UK travellers who are going abroad during the pandemic.
Sort out financial support
The Job Retention Scheme still applies if you get locked down outside of the UK, and you should be able to apply for mortgage and credit card payment holidays. Contact your bank and mortgage provider for details. You should also be able to continue receiving your pension or any benefits. If you run out of money, the embassy or consulate will be able to give you general help and advice on transferring funds from your bank or having your friends or relatives transfer money to you. They should also have details of local charities that may be able to help.
Stay connected
It’s important that you stay connected to friends, family and employers in the UK so you can update them on your situation and let them know you’re safe and well. Check with your mobile providers about international call charges. Most providers have got rid of roaming charges but you could consider buying a local SIM card as a backup. We’re all familiar now with using FaceTime, WhatsApp, Skype and Zoom to keep up with friends and family or work remotely so it’s worth making sure you have them installed on your phone. And don’t forget to use social media to post updates and to follow useful accounts that will keep you up to date with the local and global situation. Then keep calm and have a glass of wine!
