Is your passport valid?
Check in plenty of time in case you need to get a new one - some countries require you to have at least 6 months left on your passport to travel.
If you need a new passport, you can make sure your application meets the Identity and Passport Service standards by using the Post Office Passport Check & Send service.
Get your medication and jabs
Visit your GP or a travel health clinic to see if you need any vaccinations or medications for your holiday destination, such as malaria tablets.
If you take prescription or over-the-counter medication, make sure you have enough to last you while you're away.
Don't forget holiday essentials such as mosquito spray and tablets for an upset stomach.
If you're planning to drive, get covered
You need a full licence to drive abroad - provisional licences are not valid anywhere other than the country they're issued in.
If you're driving your own car, check with your insurer that you're covered to drive abroad and find out who you should call if you break down or have an accident.
You might need an International Driving Permit to drive in the country you're going to. Check with the AA before you go.
If you're visiting a country outside of the EU, you may also need a Green Card - proof you have the minimum third party liability cover - to drive. If you do, most insurers can supply you with this or you can get it at the point of entry into a country.
Finally check the driving laws of your holiday destination, including what documents you need to have with you. These can vary from country to country.