Essential Guide to Planning an Overseas Riding Holiday 2025

Exploring the world on horseback is an unforgettable experience, and an overseas riding holiday offers the chance to connect with nature in stunning new landscapes. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential considerations for planning a successful riding holiday abroad in 2025, ensuring comfort, safety, and fun.

1. Essential Riding Equipment for Overseas Trips

When travelling overseas for a riding holiday, packing the right equipment is crucial. Your own riding hat is non-negotiable. Bringing a helmet that fits well and meets the latest UK safety standards, such as PAS015 or VG1, guarantees protection. Always carry it in your hand luggage to avoid damage.

Consider a sheepskin seat saver for comfort during long rides, but check it fits the saddle type used at your destination. Take familiar riding boots if possible, ideally wearing them during the flight to reduce baggage.

Avoid new, untested clothing that might cause discomfort or chafing. Layering clothes is ideal for variable climates; cotton clothing and seamless breathable underwear work well in warm conditions.

2. Be Realistic About Your Riding Ability and Fitness

Overseas riding holidays often involve several hours in the saddle daily, which can be demanding. Be honest about your riding skill and physical fitness. If you’re less experienced or less fit, select holidays that mix riding with other activities, allowing rest days and sightseeing.

Check the terrain at your destination carefully. Mountainous or challenging trails might not suit beginners, and fast paces can be overwhelming. If possible, try the style of tack (such as western saddles for ranch holidays) before travelling, so you’ll feel comfortable.

3. Consider the Environment and Climate Carefully

Your choice of destination should match your health and preferences. Avoid hot, humid climates if you have medical conditions affected by heat or humidity. Altitude can be an issue in mountain regions like the Andes, causing dizziness and requiring good acclimatisation.

Trails with steep drops or difficult footing demand confident, capable riding. If you are new to these conditions, select lower risk locations with gentle, stable terrain.

4. Manage Financial and Insurance Aspects Wisely

Purchase travel insurance that explicitly covers horse riding accidents, as some policies exclude this activity. Always book through reputable agencies or companies known within the equestrian community. Check reviews on specialist sites, such as In the Saddle, to ensure reliability.

5. Pack a Practical First Aid Kit

Prepare a compact first aid kit including blister treatment, sun protection, insect bite relief, talcum powder for sweat, and antibacterial gel. Travel-sized items keep your kit lightweight and compact, ready for any minor medical needs.

6. Start with a UK Riding Holiday if You’re a Beginner

If it’s your first riding holiday, consider trying one in the UK first. This saves money and lets you gain confidence in a familiar setting. UK riding centres verified by the British Horse Society offer trustworthy experiences.

Alternatively, if you have a horse of your own, holidaying with it can be very rewarding. Many UK centres let you bring your horse for trekking and tuition holidays. Accommodation options are flexible from camping to cosy shepherd huts, enabling a personalised adventure. This is also an excellent chance to explore UK landscapes beyond your local area.

7. Helpful Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Riding Holiday

• Always wear a well-fitted, safety-certified riding helmet. Your personal helmet is the safest choice.
• Choose clothing suitable for the weather and pack layers to adapt to temperature changes.
• Ensure your fitness matches the demands of daily riding, and build stamina before you travel.
• Learn about the tack style in advance to feel comfortable quickly on your horse.
• Research your destination’s climate, terrain, and any health considerations.
• Carry your own small first aid and sun safety kit.
• Book through reputable operators and check reviews and recommendations.

Conclusion

Planning an overseas riding holiday requires thoughtful preparation to balance adventure with safety and comfort. Selecting the right gear, honestly assessing your skills and health, understanding the environment, and organising insurance are all key to an enjoyable experience. Whether you choose a beach ride in Spain, mountain treks in the UK, or ranch holidays abroad, careful planning will make your equestrian holiday a truly memorable chapter in your travel adventures.