Delayed luggage, expensive data roaming charges, and new entry requirements are some of the things that can cause problems for summer holidays. However, several of the most common mistakes are easy to avoid – if you know about them beforehand.

Summer is peak season for travel abroad, and many Swedes look forward to weeks filled with sun, swimming and new experiences. But amid holiday planning, it's easy to overlook details that can make the trip both more expensive and more stressful than necessary.

"It's easy to put all our energy into choosing a destination and hotel, but it's often the final preparations that determine how the holiday begins. These are often small details that can make a big difference to the entire trip," says Michael Kapil, Marketing Manager at the travel agency Ticket.
 

Do not pack the most important things in your hand luggage

If your checked-in luggage is delayed, the first day of your holiday can become significantly more complicated. By packing a change of clothes, swimwear, medication, and other essentials in your hand luggage, you become less reliant on your suitcase arriving at the same time.

– Most people don't think about it until it happens to them, but delayed luggage can affect the first days of your holiday quite a bit. That's why it's smart to pack the absolute essentials in your hand luggage, says Michael Kapil.
 

2. Misses arranging surfing before the trip

Outside the EU, the cost of mobile data can quickly become high if you use your usual subscription. At the same time, it has become easier to arrange connectivity in advance through digital eSIM solutions that are activated directly in your phone and work as soon as you land.

– Many people want to be able to order a taxi, find their way to the hotel, or share their first holiday pictures as soon as they land. Therefore, it can be worth looking into mobile data options even before you leave, says Michael Kapil.
 

3. Underestimating the small things that make the journey more comfortable

A travel tip that has become popular on social media is to use a thin scarf on flights. By tying it around the headrest of your seat, it can act as a head support when you want to rest during your journey.

"A lightweight scarf is one of the most useful things you can take on a trip. It takes up almost no space but can be used for support on the plane, as a blanket if it's cool on board, and as protection against both sun and wind at your destination," says Michael Kapil.
 

4. Reliant on old travel habits

Rules that applied on your last trip may not apply today. New digital entry requirements have been introduced in several popular destinations, something that not all travellers are aware of when planning their trip.

It's easy to assume the same rules apply as on a previous trip, but that's not necessarily the case. For travel to the United Kingdom, Swedish citizens now need to apply for an electronic travel authorisation, ETA, before departure. Thailand also requires foreign travellers to digitally register their arrival before entry. It's important to check which rules apply to the specific destination you are travelling to, even if you have been there before, says Michael Kapil.
 

5. Forgetting to leave space in the suitcase

Many people travel with a packed suitcase and only discover on the way home that there's no room for shopping, souvenirs, or presents. In the worst-case scenario, this can lead to extra baggage fees or items being left behind.

"It's easy to focus on what to pack for the outward journey, but many people come home with significantly more than they left with. It's not uncommon for shopping, gifts and souvenirs to take up more space than you'd expected," says Michael Kapil.
 

6. Don't have a clue about the luggage rules

More and more airlines are no longer including checked baggage in the ticket price, and many also charge for hand luggage taken into the cabin. Those who do not check what is included risk an unexpected cost at the airport.

– Baggage rules can vary significantly between different airlines and ticket types. Therefore, it is wise to check what is included and, if necessary, add baggage in advance. Buying an extra bag at the airport can be significantly more expensive than arranging it when booking, says Michael Kapil.