Prepare your trip

You have picked your destination and booked your journey. Just a little while longer and you’re on your way. To make sure you have thought of everything, here are a few tips to make your trip go smoothly.

Tip 1: Don't forget your travel documents

Make sure you bring all your travel documents to the airport. Don't forget to check until when your identity card and international passport are valid. 

Other documents that may be required in these COVID-19 times are:

• Documents required by the country of destination. Check which conditions you have to meet in the country you are flying to.
• Passport of your second nationality, if applicable.
• Proof of your essential travel reason when travelling to destinations outside the European Union and outside the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Iceland and Norway (= EU+) or to a zone with code ‘red’.  

For more details on current travel restrictions (colour codes), please check:

• The website of the Foreign Affairs Ministry. 
• The Foreign Affairs call centre at +32 (0) 2 501 40 00 (weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Belgian time). 

Tip 2: Pack your hand luggage smartly

To increase your comfort while travelling, we recommend that you travel as lightly as possible. This not only saves your back, but also speeds up security checks at the airport. Remember to put a face mask in your hand luggage, as wearing a face mask is mandatory at the airport.

The rules about packing your hand luggage remain the same as before the coronavirus outbreak:

• Liquids and gels in individual containers that contain no more than 100 ml (larger containers, even if they’re only partially filled, will be refused) are allowed in your hand baggage. However, they must be packed in a single transparent and re-sealable plastic bag with a capacity of no more than 1 litre.
• Liquids and gels that were purchased in the airside shops packed in a specially sealed bag do not count as long as the bag remains sealed. If the seal is broken, the content may be confiscated.
• Baby food (both formula milk and jars) for use during the flight is allowed in the hand luggage. In case of doubt on the contents, the security agent may ask you to taste the baby food.
• Medicines and dietary supplements for use during the flight are also allowed. Ask your doctor for a certificate to prove their necessity.

Tip 3: Apply for special assistance in time

If you need special assistance, you should request it at least 48 hours before the scheduled departure of your flight through your airline. On the day of your trip, please proceed to the Special Assistance desk which you will find in the departure hall next to the Travelex exchange office (at check-in row 1). To protect your health, we regularly clean and disinfect the caddies and wheelchairs. The assistance staff will also wear a face mask at all times.

If you travel with your own foldable or electric wheelchair, you should always notify your travel agency or airline in advance. They can inform you about the rules that apply. This is also important for the airport of your destination.

Tip 4: Come to the airport well ahead of your departure time

For a flight within the European Union we advise you to be at the airport two hours in advance. For flights outside Europe, it is best to arrive at the airport three hours in advance.

More on our efforts against corona