From sneaking in the siestas and brushing up on some key phrases to upgrading your airport experience and paying for a local guide, we recommend travel tips to ensure you have a blissful, stress-free holiday.

It's all too easy to forget to renew your passports. Dig them out a good few months before you're due to depart to check they're all valid to avoid that hellish last-minute dash to the passport office for an emergency one. Some countries require passports to be valid for at least six months from your date of arrival.

Applying for visas in good time is another essential on the pre-holiday checklist. Then, a few days before you leave, take a copy of your passports, driving licences, travel insurance and visas and email copies to yourself. Collate all of your documents, including hotel booking forms, directions and car hire details, and keep them in a little folder in your hand luggage for easy reference.

Don't leave getting the right travel immunisations to the last minute as many need to be given a good few weeks in advance of your trip and some also require a booster. If you have any prescription medicine, be sure to take your prescription with you too just in case of any problems at customs. Get tips from a travel health doctor on how to stay healthy on holiday.

Checking in online for planes and ferries is pretty standard pre-holiday prep these days and the best way to ensure a quick and relatively calm airport experience. But many hotels and resorts also now allow you to check-in online a few days before arrival, freeing up some valuable pool time. It also pays to complete any car hire registration forms in advance too to save time hanging around at the hire desk.

Rather than schlep to the airport with heavy bags by train or bus, why not treat yourself to a taxi? Pre-book a cab and you'll get door-to-door service. If you opt travel by public transport, try to avoid rush hour to avoid scornful looks from commuters as you attempt to cram your suitcases into the carriage.

If you do drive, you can opt for valet-style parking rather than the standard park and drive so your car is waiting for you at the end of your trip. It's a good way to ease yourself back to reality after a holiday. You can book it ahead through websites such as Holiday Extras or via the airport's own website. They might even clean your car while you're away. Find more tips on how to travel first class on the cheap.

Whether you're travelling solo, with friends or family, choosing the right departure times can be the key to a stress-free start to your holiday. Getting the very first flight of the day might seem like a good idea when you're booking, but when it comes to it, scrambling around to make it to the airport for a 6am flight is never fun. It might cost more to travel at reasonable times but there's a reason for that – it's far more civilised.

Avoid that panicky feeling when your suitcase goes on the scale at check-in by taking your time to pack carefully. Really plan what you'll need for your trip and write a checklist. Look over it a day or so later and decide if you definitely need everything on it. After that, it's all about the clever packing – we have some good tips here. A handheld digital luggage scale is also a great gadget to help you stay within your luggage allowance limit.

It can be tempting to keep costs down by only paying to put one suitcase in the hold when you're flying with a budget airline. But is it really realistic that you'll cram all of your family's holiday needs into one or two suitcases? If not, spare yourself the stress (and potential trips to the shops on the other side) and fork out for more luggage. You won't regret it.

Didn't manage to keep it light? Then send your luggage on ahead of you rather than lugging it to the airport. Services like Airportr and Luggage Mule will pick up suitcases from your home or chosen location around in advance and send it on to your destination. It does require a bit of forward planning but it also saves on that last-minute packing panic.

We all know by now that we can't fly with liquids, so avoid last-minute faffing by having your liquids already separated and bagged up in a clear plastic bag before you get into the security line. The same goes with laptops, tablets and mobiles: remove them from their cases ready to put in the tray. And wear shoes that are easy to take off and on to avoid tuts from impatient passengers.

You don't have to fly First Class or Business to be the first through security, passport control or to board the plane. If you're a frequent flyer or have Avios points you may well be entitled to a fast-track service. But you can pay for it at some airports for a small fee. Many airlines, ferry lines and Eurotunnel also offer priority boarding for a slightly higher fare, but it can be money well spent.

An easy win for starting your holiday off on a high note is by getting access to an airport lounge. You don't have to fly business or be a frequent flyer to get in one. There are lounges when you can pay a one-off or subscription fee. Most offer complimentary food, drink, wi-fi and newspapers. Some also have showers. Feel like a first-class traveller by following these tips.

Many airlines and ferries charge extra if you wish to pre-book seats, but it's worth paying a little extra to avoid the mad scramble. You'll probably be allowed to board earlier too so you can stow your hand luggage above your seat rather than the other end of the plane. Talking of which, it's no fun lugging a heavy suitcase on board, banging into fellow passengers' legs and trying to stuff it into the overhead lockers. Keep it compact, folks. 

Most parents will agree that stress-free travelling with kids is an oxymoron, especially if you're embarking on a long-haul flight. But there are many ways to mitigate the pain and they mostly involve being highly organised. Be prepared for boredom and hunger by packing entertainment devices, earphones, toys, snacks, and little surprise gifts to pepper the journey with. Settle them in, then sit back and hope for the best. It might be worth downloading some meditation apps too...

One flight down in relative relaxation? Don't up the stress levels by booking connecting flights that are too close together. Make sure you leave plenty of time to allow for flight delays and transits across large and busy airports where long distances and queues are likely. A travel agent should know the best connection times but if you're booking flights yourself leave at least an hour between arrival and departure or longer for hectic hubs.

Hurray, you made the connection. You've landed at your end destination and your luggage has turned up in one piece. Don't ruin it now by attempting to navigate a totally foreign public transport system complete with heavy bags. That's no way to start your holiday, unless you love a challenge. Instead, treat yourself to a taxi to your accommodation. While your fellow passengers will be struggling off a hot train you'll already be poolside with cocktail in hand.

Arriving in a foreign country with no cash can be a little disconcerting so make sure you have some. Don't leave it to the airport to get it, though, as airport exchanges have notoriously bad exchange rates. Buy currency in advance for the best price, and tell your bank that you'll be away as any unusual overseas activity can cause them to block credit cards. 

Planning a holiday can be overwhelming and very time consuming, especially if you don't know anything about a destination. Travel agents may well be the answer – tap into their expertise and save yourself the bother. Using a travel agent doesn't mean you'll be on an off-the-shelf package holiday, however. A good travel agent will create a brilliant personalised holiday that's just right for you and your companions. Read our guide to stress-free booking with a travel agent.

If you're travelling to Europe and you live within the EU, make sure you have an in-date European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) in case you get ill while you're away. Wherever you're going always ensure you have the correct travel insurance to cover your trip and that it's up to date. In the UK, if you book your holiday through high street and online agents then you'll also get additional levels of protection known as ATOL and ABTA if the company you're booking with goes bust or unavoidable events occur.

Is your hotel room facing the road rather than the mountains as promised? Has your villa's swimming pool been closed for maintenance? Be sure to speak directly to your accommodation provider or travel agent straight away and lodge a formal complaint if necessary. You may be moved, upgraded, entitled to compensation or it might just make you feel better. Whatever your concerns, don't let niggles fester and ruin your holiday.

If you think you'll need a car on holiday, it's can be cheaper and easier to pre-book it before you leave, especially if you're collecting at the airport. That way you'll know what vehicle you're getting. If you're travelling with children it's often an idea to take your own booster seats for ease and peace of mind. Also, pack your own sat-nav to avoid the stress of getting lost and paying pricey daily charges to hire one.

If you're going somewhere with particularly hairy roads then try to avoid driving altogether. But don't let that limit what you see – in many countries you can hire a personal driver for very little. It's a fantastic and stress-free way to explore and tap into local knowledge. Get a good one and they'll even double as a guide, taking you to places off the tourist trail. Just make sure you agree the fee and where you're going upfront and don't forget to tip generously.

If you do drive then familiarise yourself with the local driving regulations and customs and check your vehicle meets local conditions. Many European countries, for example, require drivers carry high visibility jackets, medical kits and warning triangles. You may also need an International Driving Permit so be sure to check before you depart and apply for one if so. The AA has a guide to what countries require this. 

... and stick to it. It's incredibly easy to overspend on holiday and all too tempting to stretch your budget, especially if you're travelling with friends on a bigger one. But returning with a tan, memories and no money for a weekly shop is no way to live. Be clear with companions beforehand if you can't afford that sunset island cruise or to dine out every evening. You could also download Splitwise to help track your expenses as you go and avoid any quibbles over bills later. Here are a few more of our favourite travel apps.

It's well worth making the effort to learn a few key phrases in the local language before you depart so you know some rudimentary pleasantries at least. Learn some more and you'll likely win over the locals and get more from your stay. In countries where English isn't widely spoken, carry a business card of the hotel you're staying in (written in the local script) with you so any taxi drivers know where to drop you or passersby can help direct you if you get lost.

While spontaneity has its place on holiday, if you're looking for true peace of mind then pre-book your first few nights of accommodation at least. Many booking sites, such as Booking.com, allow you to reserve rooms without a deposit so you know you have somewhere, just in case. Find somewhere better? Then just cancel the booking before a fee is due. Not sure a hotel is right for you? Read our guide on hotels versus self-catering.

Desperate to get tickets to a show? Always wanted to dine in that Michelin-starred restaurant? Or planned your city break around a specific art exhibition? Then be sure to pre-book to avoid disappointment. You may also get early bird prices for attractions and often get to skip the lengthy queues. It's an idea to get chatting to your hotel's concierge if you couldn't score tickets or a table as they may well have connections.

The first few days of holidays are wind-down time – when we disconnect from work or get over jet lag. So, if you're planning an action-packed holiday, be sure to build in a couple of days as a buffer (assuming time and budget permit). That way you will be on top form to see and do everything you want to during the rest of the trip. Whatever, you're planning try not to overschedule. We have some more tips on travelling mindfully.

Feeling fully recharged and ready for some action? Then set off to explore your destination. If you're not sure where to start or would rather not go off on your own ask your hotel or resort about personal guides or guided tours. From cycling excursions to street food tours, you're bound to find one that suits you and hopefully you'll meet some like-minded travellers or friendly locals while you're at it too.

Going on holiday with friends can be brilliant but it can also be fraught with tension if you don't set off on the right foot. Pick your travelling companions carefully, plan the trip out together, agree budgets, room allocations and discuss what you want to do. If everyone's on pretty much the same page then you'll have a fantastic time. For more tips on making it work, read our guide to going away with friends.

Romantic breaks can also be a minefield. Booking a holiday to save a relationship is generally never a good idea – all that pressure! And there's nothing like bickering over directions or splitting bills to see a fledgling romance crumble. But of course, go with the right person at the right time and a trip can create wonderful life-long memories. Follow our tips to going on holiday with your partner to ensure you both have a stress-free time.

Whoever you're on holiday with make sure you have some time to yourself, whether it's simply reading by the pool, heading off on a solitary hike or going for a swim across the bay. Holidays are a great time to collect your thoughts, take a step back from day-to-day life and contemplate your goals. They can also be a little intense so spend some time apart and you'll have plenty to talk about when you reconvene for dinner and drinks later that day.

There's nothing quite like a post-lunch snooze in the sunshine for feeling the relaxed holiday vibes, so make sure you don't short change yourself on siestas. Before you know it you'll be back in the office, pining for a glass of rosé, an ice cream and a secluded sun lounger to stretch out on.

If you're staying in a resort or hotel, make sure you know exactly what's included in your booking before you start digging into the buffet or ordering that second bottle. If you're going through a travel agent then be sure to ask what's included in the quote before you book. What's the room type? What food and drink is included? Do you have transfers? And are any activities in the deal? Is there a single supplement? You can be easy to rack up a hefty bill in hidden extras.

You might like the idea of switching off your smartphone while you're away but realistically that's not always practical. After all, they can come in very handy for navigating, booking tables and tours and translating menus. While the EU has largely scrapped roaming charges, call and data charges can be hugely expensive elsewhere. The best option is to disable your data usage and stick to wi-fi. Do beware of free wi-fi hotspots, which can leave you vulnerable to cyber crime.

Keep the kids entertained and you're more likely to get some peace and quiet. Go for hotels with child-friendly pools, play areas and a kids club where they can spend a few hours while you seek out the spa or laze by the beach. It also helps to pick your accommodation carefully – a quick way to feel the stress levels rising is checking into a smart boutique hotel with noisy little ones in tow. Go for family-friendly places and you can relax knowing that you won't get disapproving stares.

So they had pizza and ice cream yesterday? Does it really matter? If they're up for trying unfamiliar foods then that's excellent but don't make a big issue of it. Gently encourage them to try the local cuisine but don't fret if they'd rather stick to the fries. You're all on holiday after all. With particularly fussy eaters and little ones, it could be an idea to pack a few familiar snacks to avoid mealtime meltdowns.

Always keep your wits about you when you're on holiday, especially in busy tourist spots or places notorious for pickpockets and muggings. Try to blend in with locals, don't carry lots of cash or expensive gadgets with you and avoid wearing expensive jewellery. Backpacks are a pickpocket's dream. Instead, keep your valuables in an inner coat pocket or use a money belt.

We all know annual leave is a precious commodity and it can be tempting to eke out the holiday by arriving back on the morning you're due to return to work. Unless you're exceptionally good at sleeping on planes, don't do it. Build in a day or afternoon at least after your holiday to get home, shower, unpack or simply to flop before you return to the daily grind.