Model-Off-Duty: How to Holiday Like a Pro

If you’re lucky enough to be going away this year, you’ll be itching to escape your usual routine. Everyone deserves a break regardless of their working schedule or background. Many holiday-goers save up especially for their special time away; holidays are a personal indulgence that need to be well planned, including finances.

Once you’ve chosen your desired destination, the planning really starts. You’ll need to search websites or talk to travel agents and find the best deal that suits you. Then the boring stuff starts! Yes, we’re talking about insurance, passports, transfers, rentals…only if you’re going abroad, though. But even a holiday in the UK can take up more of your time travelling than a flight to Europe, so all holidays need focus and preparation.

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We dream about white sand beaches, swaying palm trees, golden sunsets and the ultimate in exotic tranquillity, but that comes at a hefty price. No matter the budget, holiday travel can quickly become a hinderance without foresight and planning.

Read our top tips for a stress-free holiday so all you’ll need to do is sit back and relax when the time comes for a few days away.

Insurance – essential for both long and short holidays. There are surprisingly good deals to be snapped up, as there are now more insurers than ever. According to The Association of British Insurers, there were 574,000 travel insurance claims last year in the UK alone, so it pays to research the best deals. As policies cover different criteria, opt for the one that suits you and / or your family the best: you may want to focus on coverage for any / all of the following: loss of luggage, delays, injuries sustained abroad, hospital visits, participation in extreme sports. Not all travel policies are the same!

Also, check if travel insurance is mandatory for the country to which you are travelling; insurance is legally required for travellers to enter certain countries, but not all.

Flights – Again, spend time researching airlines for the best prices and times. They are all in competition with each other, so some prices vary wildly for the same flight. Some offer more cabin luggage allowance or more leg room; don’t just settle on the first flight you come across on the Internet. Scan price comparison sites, too.

Arrive at the airport in plenty of time: at least an hour before departure. Flights can be notoriously unpredictable due to weather delays and lost luggage etc, so give yourself the best chance by being early.

Rentals – Always keep rental car companies / transfer agency’s contact details to hand in case there are delays when you leave the airport.

Passports – Check, check and double check. Take a photo of your passport details and save it to your phone should you lose your passport. Most travel operators are very helpful in emergencies.

Mobile phones / boarding passes. Most travellers have their boarding passes saved to their “wallet” feature on Smartphones. Keep phones in a separate, secure pocket.

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Credit cards – Finance on holiday is personal but remember that lost cash cannot be claimed back. However, services paid for by credit cards can be compensated should any problems arise. Also, some holidays can be paid for by credit cards spread out over several months.

Water – Dehydration can make travellers tired and anxious, so always have a bottle of water with you (although you’ll have to part with it before checking in at airports!)

Eating – Avoid expensive airport snacking by filling up on a slow-release meal prior to travelling. Porridge, multigrain bread and nuts are ideal.

Clean clothes – Have a clean T-shirt and a pair of socks handy for instant freshness.

Experiencing new countries (or areas if holidaying in the UK) is a wonderful way for commercial models to develop their portfolios. Being a true modelling star on holiday means taking advantage of every opportunity to show our clients you’re being proactive. Holidays should be about fun and relaxation, but never shy away from increasing your chances of being chosen for our numerous modelling jobs!