AS THE first summer flights of 2009 begin, tour operator Falcon Holidays has put together some timely tips to help get the summer holidays off to a flying start.

On Friday, May 1, Falcon's first departures of the summer season jett off from Belfast International Airport to Menorca, Tenerife and Naples, so Northern Ireland Director Christine Donnelly is advising holidaymakers to think ahead and make sure that they're properly prepared.

"In the run-up to a holiday everyone is excited and often the practicalities get overlooked," explains Christine.

"With this in mind, we have come up with a few simple tips for holidaymakers to help eliminate any pre holiday preparation stress."

Falcon's tips for holidaymakers are…

l Check your passports

Check that the passports of everyone travelling, including children and infants, are in date and in good condition. You would be surprised at the number of people who overlook this and have to cancel, postpone their trip or make a last minute dash to the passport office.

l Ensure you have adequate travel insurance

Medical treatment abroad can be very expensive and it is a requirement with most tour operators that anyone travelling has a comprehensive travel insurance policy. Most policies also cover for personal belongings and delays. If you are travelling within the European Economic Area apply for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) which is free of charge and entitles you to reduced or free emergency medical care. The EHIC replaces the E111, which is now no longer valid. However you should still have a comprehensive insurance policy.

l Check your tickets

When you receive your flight tickets and itinerary make sure to check the details, including all dates and flight and check-in times. Also check the names are the same as those on your passports.

l Check if a visa or any vaccinations are required for your destination

Your travel agent or tour operator will be able to advise you if either is needed.

l Keep up to date with current airport security procedures and restrictions

Minimise stress at the airport by allowing plenty of time for security checks and ensuring your luggage adheres to any restrictions, including those for carriage of liquids in hand luggage. Be aware of luggage weight limits. Falcon allows 20kg per person and also offer 10kg baggage for infants on some flights. (It is advisable to contact travel agent regarding infant baggage allowance).

l Always carry important documents and medication in your hand luggage

It can be difficult and expensive to purchase medication abroad, therefore take enough for the duration of your trip. Medication should be properly labelled and certain medication may require a doctor's certificate. You should keep it and any valuables such as passports, insurance details and jewellery with you whilst travelling. Leave copies of important documents at home. If any documents such as your passport or travellers cheques are lost or stolen, having a copy can make replacing them that bit easier.

l Be aware of local laws and customs

Your destination may have different laws and customs to those at home. You should adhere to local laws, especially those relating to alcohol, but also respect local customs such as appropriate dress when visiting religious sites. You should also follow advice relating to drinking water and food.

l Check the local currency and try to avoid carrying large sums of cash.

Make sure to check and allow sufficient time to get any foreign currency from the bank. It is generally safer to travel with travellers cheques, credit cards, or Cirrus bank cards rather than carrying large sums of cash. Check with your travel advisor prior to departure as to the ATM facilities within your resort.

l Check your destination weather forecast, pack appropriately and stay safe in the sun

Although you can check the average weather conditions for your destination, these are not guaranteed and may be better or worse than expected. It can also be tempting to make the most of the sun but enjoy it in moderation. Try to cover up as much as possible, seek shade during the hottest part of the day, wear a high factor sun cream and drink plenty of water.

l Make sure your home is secure

Think about how you are going to secure your house while you are away. Set the alarm, unplug all but necessary electrical plugs and cancel deliveries. Ask a neighbour to watch over your house or even give them a key to ensure peace of mind while you soak up the sun.

Falcon Holidays is now in its 21st year of operation in Northern Ireland. Its 2009 summer programme features a choice of 16 destinations flying direct from Belfast International and City of Derry Airports.