Holiday planning guide

Travel like an A-lister on a Z-list budget
When you see newspaper photos of A-list celebrities stepping out of a private jet, or sunning themselves in an exclusive resort do you ever think, 'I could never afford that'?

Holidays from hell
Lack of forward planning can turn your dream holiday into a nightmare in many different ways…

Holidays with a heart
There are plenty of eco-friendly and responsible travel holidays that won’t cost the earth

Family holiday guide
Planning your holiday and how to take out travel insurance for the whole family

Carry on camping
How to plan for a camping holiday in the UK or Europe

Learn the lingo before you go
If you really want to get under the skin of the country you’re travelling to, then learning the language is a good place to start

Travel safely – airport protocol
Remember to prepare for airport security measures before you travel

Securing your home while you’re away
Don’t let the excitement of your upcoming holiday distract you from securing your house before you leave

Driving from the UK to Europe
How to plan a road trip to Europe and how Direct Line can keep you insured abroad

Route planner
Use our planner to map your journey in the UK and Europe - find the quickest route and places of interest along the way

Travelling abroad with your pet
The introduction of Pet Passports has changed the way we can travel with our pets – read about how to apply

Health factors
It's important we know about your pre-existing medical conditions before you travel

Travel wise
How to avoid theft when abroad

Advice on activity holidays
Why it's important to check your travel insurance before you take part in holiday activities

Last minute travel
There are so many options when you want to book last minute - our guide tells you how to plan and book quickly

No place like home
Don't forget, the UK is one of the world's hottest tourist destinations!

Winter sun
We suggest some destinations you could try if you need to escape typical UK weather

European weekend breaks
We help you decide whether a single trip or annual policy is the best option for city breaks

Holiday inventory
List it in case you lose it! – Why it’s important to record the details of any valuables you take on holiday

Travelling light
How to pack all your travel needs into one piece of hand luggage!

Cheap flights
How to choose a budget airline, compare flights, find a good destination and work out your carbon footprint

Travelling by train
Tips on planning a trip round Europe by train

Travel when you get there
Once you arrive at your holiday destination, what is the best and the most cost-effective way to get around?

Travelling with children
How to keep your children amused on a long plan journey.

Fear of flying
A phobia that affects thousands of people to differing degrees, but what are the causes and what can you do about it?

Best festivals around the world
Festivals come in all shapes and sizes. Here are three uniquely wonderful celebrations.

5 best Mother’s Day escapes
This year on Mothering Sunday why not go for the ultimate gift and book your mum (and yourself!) a break away.

Other useful information:

Holiday safety

Holiday health

Making the most of your holiday

Holiday destination guides

Holiday driving