Frequent traveller: money matters

Reduce travel stress — know what you need to take with you and make sure your finances are organised

Frequent traveller checklist — before you travel:

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• Make sure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay (many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after the end of your intended stay).
• Check whether you need a visa before travelling (particularly if travelling for business purposes).
• Make copies of your passport, travel insurance policy, visas and credit card details — and store separately from the original.
• Find out if you need to take out medical, personal injury or other insurance in the country you're going to.
• If you are travelling in the European Union, and are an EU citizen, get a European Health Insurance Card. This entitles you to emergency medical treatment on the same basis as local nationals.

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Frequent traveller: common questions

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) provides regularly updated bulletins on individual countries, with information on safety and security, health issues, local laws and entry requirements. See the latest FCO travel information.

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ATMs can be found in most countries. Those linked to international money systems usually accept all major cards.

Internationally recognised credit cards are also accepted in most countries, and you may be required to present photo ID when paying by card.

An international account from Lloyds TSB offers easy access to your money while abroad, and you can use your debit card in many outlets, just as you would in the UK.

Find out more about our International Account.

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When travelling overseas, it's a good idea to have comprehensive travel insurance that offers medical and health cover, emergency assistance, personal liability cover, lost and stolen possessions cover, and protection from cancellation and curtailment.

If you are making regular trips abroad, it's worth considering an annual, multi-trip insurance policy. These are often more cost-effective than taking out regular, separate policies.

Worldwide family travel cover is included when you take out a Premier International Account.

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Travellers with an EU drivers' licence can drive throughout the Economic European Area.

If you intend to drive in a country outside the EEA, you may need to apply for an International Driving Permit. See the AA's country-by-country list of licence requirements.

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Many hotel chains, car rental companies and airlines offer points-based loyalty schemes — and if you are a regular traveller, they are a great way to save money and enhance your travel experience.

If you're a Lloyds TSB Airmiles Duo Credit Card holder, you will automatically collect Airmiles on your credit cards spend, and can use these for flights, hotels, days out and much more.

Find out more about our credit cards.

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Tips for frequent travel:

• Prepare for jetlag — get a good night of sleep before travelling, and try to get into the routine of the local timezone as soon as you arrive.
• Make sure you give a friend or relative your contact details and travel itinerary.
• Invest in a good travel guide — these are a great way to discover hidden gems and allow you to budget your trip more effectively.
• Try to use direct flights as much as possible to reduce travel time and reduce the risk of losing baggage.
• Inform your credit card provider(s) of your upcoming trip before you travel, to reduce the risk of delays in authorisation while you are away.
• If you are taking prescription medicine, take a copy of your prescription with you when you travel.

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