Pack like a lawyer: travel insurance, documents and accident tips for holidaymakers
Caitlin Wood shares what holidaymakers should prepare before travelling abroad and clears up some common holiday myths that catch travellers out.
Posted on 14 July 2026
When people think about packing for a summer holiday, it is usually suncream, passports and adapters that make the list. But from a personal injury lawyer’s perspective, the most important preparations are often the ones people overlook until something goes wrong.
In this blog, Caitlin Wood, an associate in Leigh Day’s travel team, shares what holidaymakers should prepare before travelling abroad, along with common myths that can catch people out.
What should holidaymakers prepare before travelling abroad?
1. Carry a copy of your travel insurance policy (not just proof of purchase)
Many people have insurance but don’t actually know what it covers. Simply having a confirmation email or policy number isn’t always enough when you need to act quickly.
Having the full policy to hand means you can quickly access key contact numbers, check exactly what is (and isn’t) covered. Knowing this information makes it quicker and easier to access help and support, avoiding any uncertainty at a stressful time.
It’s also something medical providers may ask for if you require treatment abroad, particularly where costs are to be covered directly by your insurer.
2. Know how to document an accident abroad
Most people carry everything they need in their pocket already, as having your mobile phone with you at all times is typical (even if you’re trying to have an “unplugged” holiday). The key is knowing to use it deliberately.
If an incident does occur, taking clear photos of the scene, any hazards involved (such as wet flooring or damaged surfaces), and your injuries can make a significant difference later.
Making a brief note of what happened while it is still fresh in your mind, and keeping a record of bookings or excursion details, can also help avoid relying on memory weeks or months down the line.
3. Save key emergency contacts before you travel
In practice, one of the biggest frustrations for people abroad is simply not being able to find the right information quickly.
Saving essential contacts, such as your insurer’s emergency helpline, your accommodation details, and local emergency services, somewhere easy to access (for example in your phone notes or even written down separately) can make dealing with an incident far more manageable in a stressful situation.
4. Keep copies of important travel documents
Losing access to important documents while abroad can quickly add unnecessary stress to an already difficult situation.
Having copies of your passport, booking confirmations, and insurance details stored securely (for example, digitally or in a separate bag) can make it much easier to deal with replacement processes, verify arrangements, or provide evidence where needed.
5. Check who you are booking excursions with
Particularly when it comes to excursions or activities, it’s easy to assume everything falls under the same umbrella as your holiday provider, but that isn’t always the case.
Taking a moment to confirm who you are contracting with, and whether an activity is part of a package or a separate arrangement, can help you better understand what protections are in place and avoid surprises if something goes wrong.
These simple steps can also make it easier to identify who may be responsible, preserve key evidence and seek legal advice if you are injured abroad.
Travel myths that can catch holidaymakers out
While considering the things that you should try to remember as you pack for your summer holiday, it’s also worth noting the common misconceptions people may have before they travel.
Myth: Travel insurance covers everything
Reality: policies vary significantly, and exclusions are common, particularly around certain activities, pre-existing conditions, or incidents involving alcohol.
Before you buy travel insurance, make sure it covers the activities you plan to do, that you have disclosed any relevant medical history, and that you understand any exclusions that may apply.
Myth: If something goes wrong, I can deal with it when I get home
Reality: in practice, the steps taken at the time, such as reporting the incident and gathering basic evidence, are often what make matters clearer and easier to resolve later.
It’s difficult when you have been involved in an accident, especially if you are seriously injured, to focus on anything other than your injuries. But documenting the accident (or asking someone to do this on your behalf) while you are in the country can make all the difference.
Myth: Package holidays mean everything is automatically covered
Reality: while package holidays can offer important protections, responsibility will still depend on the circumstances, and not every situation is as straightforward as people expect.
When booking excursions or activities, check with both the supplier and your tour operator whether those activities are covered by the package holiday arrangement.
Myth: It was just bad luck
Reality: sometimes incidents are unavoidable, but very often there are contributing factors that only become clear afterwards. Often, there may have been simple steps taken by a third party which could have reduced risk or made the situation easier to deal with.
Preparing for a holiday should not mean expecting the worst, but taking a few simple steps before you travel can make a significant difference if something does go wrong. Keeping the right documents to hand, understanding your insurance cover, and knowing how to record an incident can help you access support more quickly and protect your position later.
If you have been injured on holiday and are unsure of your rights, Leigh Day’s specialist travel team can advise on accidents abroad, package holiday claims and incidents arising during excursions or hotel stays. Contact us for a free, confidential consultation.
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