Deal or no deal? European Travel post-Brexit

With the end of March approaching fast and the UK still surrounded by uncertainty around its impending exit from the European Union, anyone planning European travel might, rightly so, be a little worried about changes to come. Our partners at Responsible Travel have put together a few very useful pointers around what is likely to be in place post-Brexit – deal or no deal: 

• UK-EU flights will operate – the European Commission has confirmed UK airlines can fly to the EU. A cap on the number of flights based on 2018 levels is being contested
• Ferry services and cruises from the UK will sail – shipping rules are mostly international
• UK passport-holders won’t need visas for the EU – an electronic visa-waiver scheme for the Schengen area is due in 2021 but would happen anyway and is nothing to do with Brexit
• Passports must be valid for six months from arrival date. Here’s a useful link which will help you determine if you need a new passport – https://www.passport.service.gov.uk/check-a-passport
• If you are buying a package trip from the UK you will continue to enjoy full financial protection thanks to the EU Package Travel Directive. The UK has adopted the same level of protection and this has been written into UK law. This may help you determine what a package holiday actually is – https://www.abta.com/help-and-complaints/frequently-asked-questions/what-package-holiday
• The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) won’t be valid in the event of no deal. We always recommend that you have adequate travel insurance in place. It is also a good idea to buy your trip with a credit card as this will give you an added level of insurance and it is now illegal to charge you more for paying by credit card. 
• UK drivers in the EU will need an International Driving Permit – available from the Post Office for £5.50
• Pets will still be able to travel, but owners should consult a vet in advance about documents and health checks.