You may have happy memories of spontaneous holidays, but now you have
a child in tow, you need to be a little more organised! Allow at least
six weeks to get a baby passport and
four weeks prior to departure for most of the following:

• You will need to apply for a free European Health Insurance card (EHIC)
  for each member of the family. Presenting the card to the hospital or
  doctor overseas will entitle you to free or reduced-cost emergency medical
  care in countries in the European Economic Area. However, the EHI card
  is no substitute for travel insurance – some countries do not recognise
  it, e.g., Austria, and others still prefer you to pay.

You can apply online
or by calling 0845 606 2030; or by picking up an application form from
the Post Office.

Find out about access to healthcare
in countries outside the EEA.

• Do all family members have current passports? This applies to all
  children who were not already included on a parent’s passport by 5th
  October 1998. Countries such as Turkey insist on validity for a set
  period after your return so double check. For further advice on passports
  and visas, you can contact The Passport Office on 0870 521 0410. Their
  website address is www.passport.gov.uk
  where you can request an application form online, or use their fax-back
  information service on 0901 470 0120.For more in-depth info on
  applying for a baby passport click here and why not read one
  mum’s story of Baby passport hell…and back and be warned?!
• Take out travel insurance and don’t forget to take your policy with
  you. You’ll need to obtain an official confirmation of any injury or
  illness, e.g., a doctor’s letter. Keep all receipts relating to any
  medical expenses you incur. Your policy will have details of who you
  should contact in the event of a claim.
• Pack your driving licence if you intend to hire a car. Check to see
  if an International Driving Permit is required. It’s preferable to obtain
  an EU licence, wherever possible, as the old-style green driving licence
  is not generally accepted in Europe. For specific regulations talk to
  your tour operator or travel agent. Also, make sure children’s car seats
  are available.
• Order currency and travellers’ cheques from your bank or a local travel
  agent.
• If more than 28 weeks pregnant, ask your tour operator or travel agent
  if a doctor’s certificate is needed to fly. Different airlines have
  different regulations.
• Pre-book seats together and special in-flight meals, such as, vegetarian
  meals.
• Some airlines do not allow toddlers under two to occupy a seat. Are
  there enough adults in your party to hold the children during the flight?
• Consider an overnight stay at a hotel at the airport to reduce stress
  on the day of travel. Your tour operator or travel agent should be able
  to arrange this for you.
• Arrange for secure parking and fast-track check-in at the airport
  if required. Again, this is something your tour operator or travel agent
  should be able to arrange.
• Employ a house sitter or book pets into a kennel or cattery.
• Leave travel dates, contact & flight numbers with a friend or relative.