Holiday check 2025: 10 tips for a worry-free summer holiday!

Holiday check 2025: 10 tips for a worry-free summer holiday!

On June 26, 2025, many Germans will be faced with the challenge of packing their bags for the upcoming summer holidays. This year, travelers are increasingly concerned about various risks, including forest fires and political conflicts. In light of these concerns, the Federal Foreign Office has put together valuable tips for Germans on vacation to ensure a safe stay. These instructions are not only aimed at popular travel destinations such as Greece, Turkey, Mallorca or Tenerife, but apply worldwide.

Key information includes aspects such as **passport validity**, which often needs to be valid for six months beyond the return date. Single parents in particular need a declaration of consent from the other parents to travel with minors, ideally with a translation. Travelers should also note that a doctor's certificate is required for prescription medications, especially in English. Before you start your journey, you should also clarify whether a visa is required; precise information about this is available directly Foreign Office available.

Important tips for travelers

A well-prepared trip also includes checking the **driving license validity**, which is usually possible without any problems within the EU, but should be checked urgently outside of it. The possibility of canceling the trip is also relevant; Fees often apply here unless exceptional circumstances occur, such as natural disasters. The “Elefand” crisis preparedness list offers useful support, allowing you to get help quickly in the event of an emergency.

The use of “Elefand” is recommended for all Germans abroad. It is a registration that enables quick contact in the event of a crisis. This list can be easily entered and updated using the app, which has also been available for smartphones and tablets since June 12, 2024. The free app is available in both the Android and iOS app stores.

Summer vacation checklist for travelers

In addition to the points mentioned, travelers should create a comprehensive checklist to ensure a smooth vacation. The following list contains important aspects to consider before departure:

• Pass- und Visumspflicht prüfen
• Einverständniserklärung für Kinder nicht vergessen
• Atteste und Medikamentenbescheinigungen bereithalten
• Impfstatus überprüfen
• Führerschein-Gültigkeit klären
• Krisenvorsorgeliste nutzen
• Zollregeln beachten
• Reiseversicherungen prüfen
• Notfallkontakte speichern
• Offizielle Hinweise vor Abflug lesen

It is advisable to regularly check the latest information on the website Foreign Office in order to avoid unexpected stressful situations on vacation. It is particularly important not to apply old experiences to new situations without reflection, as new entry regulations may come into force in countries such as Spain.