One of the best things is knowing that we live so close to so many countries and they are only a cheap flight away! As we are such prolific travellers there is always a lot of advice rolling around and great tips to save money! Plus of course the question asked lots, travel insurance and which one to get if you’re coming to the UK. Bonus points to you if you come here to check this as 95% of people don’t!
CLICK HERE for info on Chinese Airlines (and other airlines TBC)
CLICK HERE TO GET HELP WITH SCHENGEN ZONE REQUIREMENTS
I AM FLYING RYANAIR AND IT TELLS ME TO GET A VISA STAMP ON MY BOARDING PASS, WHAT IS THIS?
If you are a non EU passport holder, you cannot use the RyanAir app to check in. Your boarding card will say clearly that you will need a visa stamp. To get this, simply print off your boarding pass and go to the Visa Check (bag check) desk before going through security to get the boarding pass stamped.
Do NOT listen to anybody who tells you this is not the case or that they have any stories of them or mates who never did it. If you do not have the stamp they can refuse you boarding the plane or most likely they will charge you to get the stamp done right there, sometimes will cost more than the flight. Simple rule, read your boarding pass. Don’t believe us? Here is the specific link from the RyanAir website confirming it. If you do not print off your boarding card for Ryanair, it currently costs £20 per pass. The fines increase if you do not get this stamp. This is ONLY for Ryanair – but be aware if using other airlines if they don’t sneak it into the terms and conditions.
WHAT IS THE BEST TRAVEL MONEY OPTION?
Here is an old post but contains useful info for you! We reckon Monzo, Revolut, Wise are still the kings of travel money when using cards abroad!
HOW DOES TRAVEL INSURANCE WORK HERE?
You are considered a resident in the UK after you live here for 6 months, and register with a GP, which means you can use domestic travel insurance that is readily available here. Once you’re eligible, use places like “Compare the Market” and “Money Supermarket” to find the best deals.
Also many banks offer packages, but make sure it’s worth your while or you will be paying for other stuff you don’t need! Also, SafetyWing that we listed below is also perfect if you want to have on and off insurance as you can turn it off when you don’t need it! Handy!
ONE WAY TRAVEL INSURANCE – TO AND FROM THE UK
As mentioned above, if you want to buy insurance your options for one way insurance is limited. Many NZ insurers won’t cover you if you’re not living in NZ or coming back anytime soon and the UK wants you to be resident here for 6+ months. That means you have a few options.
We love SafetyWing, easy to use and quick on the claims! Very popular with the Kiwi and Aussie community so Check them out here!
Globelink WILL cover NZ/AUS passport holders for travel insurance too, click here to get info!
Also look at True Traveller Backpacker Insurance here!
Always read the fine print and ask the company before you embark on any trips. Don’t take a risk, it only takes a short time to double check you are insured!
I AM FLYING HOME THROUGH THE USA, DO I NEED ANY VISA OR ESTA EVEN IF TRANSITING?
Yep. An ESTA is always needed every time you go in and out of the USA.
Here is the official link, do not get ripped off!
ANY GOOD TRAVELLING APPS I CAN USE THAT CAN STORE DOCUMENTS , PLAN STUFF ETC???
We hear Trip It is really good. Also your Apple Wallet (for iphone users) is handy too!
VISA ENTRY REQUIREMENTS FOR KIWIS!
Here’s a list (updated 2023!)
CAN I STAY IN THE SCHENGEN AREA LONGER THAN 90 DAYS
Have a look at Schengen Simple here!
Here is a neat article about this. Please also double check on the group for any updates!
Here is a discussion from the group about this as well.
HOW CAN I GET A DUTCH WORKING HOLIDAY VISA?
Mate, we got you covered. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to get it!
GERMAN WORKING VISAS??
These guys are lovely and have you covered!
CAN I GO TO IRELAND AFTER MY VISA RUNS OUT?
The rules are for Kiwis that you would technically need to go home to apply, but we know you can apply from here and get them to send your visa home… and then get your family to post it to you here!
Also, more information about it is found here in the group!
GOT ANY COOL TRAVEL WEBSITES TO HELP US GET ABOUT?
Yep. Try these really cool websites!
Skyscanner – the travellers best comparison site!
Trip.Com – Easy as to use booking page for flights etc. The app is very useful and keeps you in the loop for if flights are late etc!
Get compensation for delayed flights! Click here to make a claim (if you don’t ask, you don’t get!)
Sleeping in Airports Guides on what you can do in any airport in the world.
Tours, Attractions, Everything – Everywhere! Viator is really handy for the person who loves travel!
WikiTravel – the name suggests it’s a Wikipedia for travel and you’d be right!
Seat 61 – Cool website giving you info on train services around the world!
Rome2Rio – The definitive site to get you from A to B anywhere in the world!