Going on holiday

Tips for teenagers: travelling without your parents

Travelling without your parents for the first time is exciting, but it also means you’ll have some new responsibilities. Whether you’re going on a trip with friends or attending a music festival, here are some things to remember to keep your holiday safe and fun.

1. Plan ahead
Before you go, take some time to plan. Know how to get from the airport to where you’re staying. Learn how to use public transport. Having a plan will make things less stressful and help you feel more confident.

2. Stay safe
It’s normal to want to have fun but remember to stay safe. Stick with your friends, avoid walking alone at night and be careful around strangers. If something feels wrong, trust your gut and leave the situation.

3. Keep in touch
Even though your parents aren’t with you, it’s important to check in regularly. Decide how often you’ll message or call home. It could be a quick text, call or a message on social media. This reassures your parents and makes sure someone knows you’re okay. A travel eSim bundle for your phone can make this easy and affordable.

Be responsible with money
When you're on holiday, it’s easy to overspend. Plan a daily budget and stick to it. Keep some emergency cash for situations where you might need more funds, such as if your debit card stops working. Keep it somewhere safe to avoid making yourself an easy target for thieves. And, if you’re over 18, consider taking a prepaid currency card. 

Know the local laws
Different countries have different laws regarding entry requirements, identification, drinking and curfews. Make sure you know the laws in your destination to avoid any trouble. For example, some countries have strict age limits for alcohol consumption. Others may have stricter regulations on curfews for teenagers.

Check the UK Government’s travel advice for your destination