So you’ve booked your holiday for a bargain and saved an absolute packet. Good for you. However, have you thought about those little extras that aren’t always considered until the last minute?

First of all you should always make sure that you get private travel insurance. Even in European countries, your EHIC card won’t necessarily get you free health cover. Instead it will give you the same healthcare entitlements as a national from the country that you’re in, which may not be the same as those given on the NHS. Another problem is that the EHIC only covers health issues. It does not cover for loss of money or robbery, cancellation of flights or a number of other worst case scenarios that will put you in a spot of bother if you’re without travel insurance. You should ensure that you have adequate cover for loss of money or belongings as well as healthcare insurance on your policy. You can get this from some companies for as little as £5 and many providers have annual cover if you’re a frequent traveller.

Airport parking might not come as such a pressing issue to you as making sure you have adequate travel insurance, and it might not be relevant at all if you’re travelling in a group. However, if you’re travelling as a family and you can’t get a lift, you’ll find that driving to the airport and parking there is usually the cheapest option available. Prices depend on which airport you’re flying from, but a week of Gatwick Airport parking costs around £45 if you book online. If you choose not to book in advance then you could be stung by a 60% on gate premium, so it certainly is worth making your arrangements earlier. With most providers the earlier you plan ahead, the cheaper your airport parking will be.

AA is one reputable provider of travel insurance. For cheap flights you could try the reassuringly-named cheapflights.co.uk and Hostel Bookers can provide assistance with finding hostels at your destination.