Have you ever experienced a serious disaster whilst on holiday? If not, it’s merely a matter of time. It has been said there are two kinds of travellers, those that have experienced a problem holiday and those that are still going to.

Tasked with identifying the top ten travel tips immediately got my mind going but an idea soon took shape. Why not use the experiences of the professionals, ask them to identify the more common causes of problems when travelling. Unbeknown to me this certainly dropped the cat amongst the pigeons, largely because limiting this to only ten became a problem, thank you so much to all those who were a part of the panel.

One of the most common problems and a unanimous choice of the panel were problems surrounding logistical arrangements. Largely related to reservations; dates and ticketing, these can be problematic despite the ease and simplicity of the internet. It is imperative when planning any holiday to any destination that all bookings are made well in advance, followed up either by e-mail or telephone a few days before your departure and still in time to rectify problems if discovered. After this has been done, prevent further problems by ensuring you have proof in the form of copies of any relevant document or reference number, this could be a receipt confirmation of a deposit paid or any item depending on your personal arrangements. This is one of those suggestions where prevention is definitely far better than cure.

Our second tip is all encompassing and covers the packing of essential items. Obviously these items might vary according to your personal plans but would perhaps include items such as passports and ID documents; applicable drivers licences; money - credit cards, wallets and other financial needs; mobile phones and camera’s, (get with it, preferably digital) are essential items nowadays, together with supporting items such as chargers and memory cards. On my personal list are always sunglasses, activity equipment, a few books, a pack of cards, a multi-purpose pocket knife and other smaller items or games which always come in handy.

How are we doing so far, the bottom line is that with tip numbers one and two you can go almost anywhere in the world and if you have forgotten anything else you can purchase them en route.

Tip number three is so absolutely boring you might well stop reading at this point but it remains one of the most common causes of holidays being cancelled. Before you leave home ensure that all domestic matters are resolved and tucked in to bed. These will again vary but will certainly surround adequate locking up and security issues; paying all accounts, in particular municipal services; cancelling any deliveries; ensuring access is available to a trusted friend or relative in the event of a fire or emergency; ensuring pets are adequately cared for and that someone responsible is able to contact you in Read more

Tipping

It's worth remembering that in the States people who work in the service industries, ie, hotel, restaurant, bars rely on tips to make up their income, this is why generally speaking the service is very good. Although tipping is considered 'voluntary' it's usually worth it - especially if you intend returning on a regular basis! It's amazing how people remember a 'good tipper' and how much better the service! Tips are usually between 15 and 20% of the bill.

Smoking

Smoking in the Sates is being considered more and more an anti-social habit. Indeed, California and New York have both banned smoking in most restaurants and public places. Elsewhere it's difficult to find any public transport with smoking facilities, whilst cinemas are a definite 'no smoking' area. Some of the more popular vacation resorts have more relaxed views and you'll find smoking sections in some restaurants. Just try not to get paranoid about it and you should have no problems!

Driving Licences

Most driving licences are accepted in the States as long as they are not in 'characters'. That is, as long as they are printed in English or have English translations. You must have held a full driving licence for at least a year and be 21 or over. In most states there is a surcharge payable for drivers who are over 21 and under 25.

Passports

It's very important that you make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your proposed departure date, US Immigration can be extremely severe!

Visas

Citizens of most European countries, as well as New Zealand and Australia do not need a visa for stays of under 90 days. However you will need to fill out a 'visa waiver' form, usually given to you on the plane. It will ask for your intended departure date and where you're staying on your first night. The form will be proccessed and attached to your passport on your arrival. DO NOT remove it. It covers you for entry into Mexico and Canada as well and will be removed on departure.

Customs Regulations

Whilst on the plane you'll be given a Customs declaration form which you must fill in before you get to customs control. Staff will not let you approach the desk until this form is completed. Your duty free allowance includes 200 cigarettes and 100 (Non Cuban) cigars. You must be over 17 for this. If you're over 21 you may also have a litre of spirits. Because of certain foreign policies you are not allowed to bring in anything produced in Cambodia, Cuba, Iraq, Libya or North Korea. Neither are you allowed to bring in any fresh foods. As in other countries, obscene materials and drugs are strctly prohibited and anyone found in possession of either is liable to be prosecuted and face a lifelong ban from entering the USA.

Insurance

We cannot stress strongly enough how important it is to take out comprehensive travel insurance when visiting the US! There is no NHS and medical treatment is extremely expensive. If you've already got travel insurance, please make sure it IS comprehensive. If you intend skiing or climbing, or taking part in *********** etc, make sure you're covered. Remember that most insurers expect you to pay for any 'on the spot' medical treatment and make a claim on your return. If you suffer any loss or theft it's important that you report it to the local police, to enable them to complete an official report. You will need this to make any claim on returning home.

Health

Generally speaking European travellers do not require inoculations before visiting the USA. Visitors from other countries should check with their travel agent or the US Embassy or Tourist Office. The emergency services telephone number in the Sates is 911, if you or one of your party have an accident then a call to this number will usually result in a fast efficient service. Remember you will be expected to pay for any treatment later! In the US, laws are much tighter on proprietary medicines than in many other countries. You may find that a simple painkiller which is readily available to you at home, will only be available in the States with a Doctor's prescription.

However, most Pharmacies have a facility for you to ask for advice and this is free of charge. Should you need a Doctor, you can look them up in the Yellow Pages under 'Physicians and Surgeons' or 'Clinics'. Remember this is not a free service and you can expect to pay $50 - 100 in advance as a consultation fee. Any medication you require can be quite expensive as it is not underwritten by a 'National Health Service', keep any receipts for insurance purposes.

Money

Although whilst in the US you can expect to pay for most things by credit card, you will also need some cash or travellers cheques (in US dollars as few US banks operate currency exchange). Check with your bank before you go whether your cash card will be accepted by cash dispensers in the US. Travellers checks are more advisable for larger amounts. American Express, Thomas Cook and Visa are widely accepted as cash and any change will be given to you in 'hard currency'. You should try to have a good supply of smaller value cheques, $10 and $20. Don't worry about signs that say 'No Checks' they mainly refer to personal cheques. There is no 'Cheque Card Guarrantee' scheme in the States.

Car hire in the US will usually require a major credit card in the name of the lead driver - check when you book as although you may be able to pay for the hire car with a debit card you will almost certainly need a credit card to collect the car!