As the holidays approach, many people will be searching for the perfect holiday destination. For chief holiday officers, trip planning is more than just deciding where to go. While the rest of the world is dreaming of cocktails by the swimming pool and breathtaking views from popular hiking paths, the chief holiday officers (CHOs) are busy building “who pays what?” They spend hours on spreadsheets and reading reviews in great detail. They also download apps to help them discover the best local experiences. They are those who love to plan. CHOs love a bit of legwork, get great satisfaction in thinking of the unthinkable, and exude the role of organiser – especially when it comes to putting together a trip to remember.
Barclays offers a range of products to help CHOs. Travel Pack1 (£14.50 per month), which offers cover for lost bags, cancellations and breakdowns for those who are looking for great value as well as peace of mind, and the Travel Plus Pack1 (£22.50 per month), which not only offers traditional travel insurance, but also a wealth of extras that help make any holiday feel safe, comfortable and – dare we say it – an adventure. You can enjoy discounted fast track security at airports and a 24/7 concierge service. Here are some holiday game-changers that you may not have known you needed.
Upgrade your airport experience
According to the Civil Aviation AuthorityLast year, UK airport flights were on average 18 mins and 24 secs late. While even the savviest of travellers do their best to take delays in their stride, it can be a drag arriving at the airport only to be hit with the news that you’re going to be waiting around a while – not to mention the inevitable check-in queues and uncomfortable waiting areas that have to be endured.
The ? Barclays Travel Plus Pack1 (£22.50 per month) is designed to help soothe these moments. It comes with a DragonPass Premier+ app2, which offers a discounted fast-track service at airport security – all you have to do is pre-book online to avoid the stress and walk straight past those seemingly neverending queues. You can visit more than 1,000 airports lounges for free, and select restaurants will offer 25% off. With this extra assistance, that typically harried time spent at the airport can be transformed into a relaxing – and enjoyable – experience. If you choose to boost your Barclays account, the benefits are even greater. Blue Rewards3You can watch exclusive Apple Original movies and shows only on Apple TV+.
How to make the most of your finances
When booking a holiday, most people are looking to escape the British weather. However, many CHOs also want to get the most out of their money. The Barclaycard Avios Plus credit card* allows you to collect Avios – the currency of the British Airways Club – with every £1 you spend on eligible purchases (T&Cs apply). By collecting Avios from your daily purchases, you can save on everyday expenses. flights, upgrades, hotels and car hire.
If you are planning to use your credit cards abroad, make sure that the card is approved by the bank. Barclaycard Rewards credit card** comes with zero foreign transaction fees. Even better, you get 0.25% cashback on eligible purchases (T&Cs apply). Pay in local currency for the best exchange rates.
In 2025, keeping your bank account secure has to be a priority – and Barclaycard has a fraud team On hand in the UK as well as abroad. Barclaycard is prepared to reimburse you for any fraudulent activity on your account. This includes interest payments. Keep your local helpline close by and contact them as soon as you suspect you have been targeted. The Barclays app4 also makes keeping your money safe abroad a breeze – you can temporarily freeze your account with the click of a button should you lose your card while away or fear it’s been compromised.
*Representative example. 80.1% representative annual percentage rate (variable); 29.9% purchase rate per annum. (variable); based on £1,200 credit limit; monthly fee, £20. Approval of your application will be determined by your financial status and your borrowing history. Interest rates shown may not be the same as those offered. T&Cs apply.
**Representative example. Purchase rate: 28.9% per annum. (variable); based on £1,200 credit limit. Your application approval and the terms offered to you will depend on your financial situation and borrowing history. Interest rates shown may not be the same as those offered. T&Cs apply.
Go local
When you want to get to know a destination, it’s important to go beyond the main tourist attractions. You can experience local life by visiting restaurants, markets, and businesses owned and operated by local communities. Your money will also go back to the local economy, and those in need.
Part of the Barclays Travel Plus Pack1 (£22.50 per month), the digital concierge service provided by Ten offers seamless access to the best activities, events and eateries wherever you are in the world. Ten’s activities hub can help you discover the most exciting activities, from booking restaurants with top names to discovering activities that are unique to a destination. Ten offers you the option to book hotel upgrades and spa experiences. You may be able to get complimentary tickets at certain events.
Stay Protected
Travel insurance is the best way to ensure your safety while on holiday. Aviva has expanded their coverage to include cruises, winter sports and even non-manual employment outside of the UK. Barclays Travel Pack1 (£14.50 per month) protects you on both family holidays and work trips, without any need for extra cover. And if you enjoy the freedom of having your own transport while travelling – especially with a family – it also comes armed with RAC breakdown cover, with unlimited UK callouts for account holders in any vehicle they are travelling in. Even better, this cover will ensure you have access to a hire car, alternative transport options (for example, you’ll be able to take a train or plane), and overnight accommodation, if your car was to break down – ensuring your holiday doesn’t come to an end too early.
If you are planning to travel for longer than 31-days, you can buy a “longer journey upgrade” that covers up to a maximum of 120 days. This is a great option for anyone taking a vacation or going on an adventure. You only need to make one call before your trip and then you can enjoy yourself!
Visit Barclays to learn more about travel benefits. barclays.co.uk/travel/
1 The terms and conditions, exclusions as well as eligibility criteria will apply. You must have a Barclays current account, be 18 or over and hold this product for at least six months from the date of purchase – then you can cancel at any time.
The DragonPass Premier+ application and fast track security are subject to 2 terms and conditions.
3 To join Barclays Blue Rewards, eligibility, conditions and a £5 monthly fee apply.
App requires a minimum age of 11 years old. T&Cs apply.
