The Foreign Office issued a warning
09:40, 13 Jul 2025Updated 09:47, 13 Jul 2025
Millions of Brits will head abroad over the coming months(Image: Peter Phipp via Getty Images)
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has issued an alert to anyone planning to have a “big holiday” this year. The government department, which is responsible for many tasks such as keeping UK citizens safe while abroad, regularly issues updates on social media.
And in a new post on X, formerly Twitter, on Saturday (July 12), the FCDO advised holidaymakers who plan to consume alcohol while abroad to remember two things. The alert in full reads: “Heading for a big holiday abroad soon?
“Before you head to the bar: Remember not to leave your drinks unattended [and that] drinks abroad can have different alcohol measures.” Text on an accompanying graphic adds: “Stick with your mates. Keep an eye on your drinks.”
Holidaymakers are also directed to the FCDO’s Travel Aware campaign, which aims to help passengers “have the best possible travel abroad, help you stay safe and understand risks in different countries”. Further guidance there reads: “Drinking abroad can be different to back in the UK.
“The quality of alcohol can be poorer, measurements of alcohol larger, and cheaper drinks and deals can result in you getting more drunk, quicker than intended. Drink spiking can also take place on holiday.
“Spiking is adding alcohol or drugs to someone’s drink without them knowing. Spiking is commonly used to distract you from theft or impair you before an assault. Do not leave your drink unattended and do not accept drinks from strangers. This is the best strategy to prevent the possibility of your drink being spiked.
“Consume water in-between alcoholic drinks. This will help pace you throughout the night and help keep you hydrated. Drink at your own pace. Everyone’s tolerance to alcohol is different. Consider avoiding rounds or having a break from drinking alcohol if you are feeling uneasy.”