Travel expert urges Brits to make 1 key bank check before going abroad | Travel News | Travel
People across the UK are turning their attention to the May half-term and summer holidays, planning their next excursion. However, some may not be making the most of the perks they have available to them to make their holiday more relaxing.
Ian McIlrath, travel expert and managing director at Ski Solutions, has reminded Brits to check the benefits their credit cards and bank accounts offer. “Before you travel, always check to see what perks you’re entitled to before purchasing extras,” Ian suggests. Fast-track airport security is most commonly provided as a benefit on premium credit cards, such as Mastercard World Elite or Amex Platinum, and on certain high-tier bank accounts, including HSBC Premier and NatWest Black. To use the perk, cardholders typically need to book in advance through a dedicated app or website. Access is usually governed by specific terms, such as eligibility requirements, limits on how often the benefit can be used, and rules about whether accompanying guests are allowed. He adds, “It’s always worth looking through your travel documents and what’s included in your booking in advance.
“If it hasn’t been included with your holiday booking, make sure to check the airport website. Some offer complimentary fast-track during quieter periods, or even bundle it with their parking.”
Other common benefits offered by certain cards and accounts include free withdrawals, minimal exchange fees, worldwide cashback, and even travel insurance, all of which can help reduce pre-trip planning stress.
Ian also shared some of his other top tips for travellers looking for advice, from proper packing to the importance of planning ahead. For those travelling with kids, he said: “Packing for family travel is less about quantity and more about accessibility.
“Keeping a small ‘first-day’ bag with essentials such as snacks, a change of clothes, and basic toiletries can be extremely useful if rooms aren’t ready on arrival or luggage is delayed. It allows families to begin enjoying the holiday immediately rather than waiting for everything to be unpacked.”
Data and WiFi access can sometimes be limited when abroad, which is why it’s important to be prepared. “If you’re planning on exploring off the beaten trail, make sure you’ve got an offline map downloaded beforehand,” Ian said. “Both Google Maps and Maps.me have offline versions, meaning you can still navigate without mobile data.”
He added: “Google Translate can also work offline when you download language packs, which can translate text, speech, and images without a connection. This is especially useful when you’re reading menus, navigating train stations, or reading signs in another country.”
Whilst the prospect of returning home after a trip away is often a sad one, it’s something we should be considering far in advance. Ian suggested: “Think about your journey home before you’ve even left for your trip.
“Things like leaving a little extra room in your suitcase to allow space for souvenirs on the way back, or pre-planning your journey to the airport and then home.”
