Brits preparing for overseas getaways this spring are being warned to make an important check to prevent potential travel chaos. The alert arrives as countless families gear up for journeys during the hectic Easter break.

The warning comes from HM Passport Office through a social media post on Tuesday. Officials wrote: "Planning spring or Easter travel? Check your passport now." It also directed travellers to the official government website to start the process if they need a new passport. It added: "If you need to renew, go to:https://www.gov.uk/apply-renew-passport."

According to the UK Government, holidaymakers must consistently verify their passport remains valid prior to securing international travel arrangements. Officials caution against making any bookings until a valid passport is physically held.

This is because your new passport will not have the same passport number as your old one. That could cause issues if travel bookings are made before the document arrives.

Those who still have a burgundy passport with "European Union" on the cover can continue to use it until it expires. The design change following Brexit does not affect whether the passport is valid.

Travellers can apply for, renew, replace or update their passport online through the official government service. Applying online is also £12.50 cheaper than applying by post.

According to the HM Passport Office, applicants will require a debit or credit card to finalise the process online. Travellers are also recommended to verify the current processing times prior to submitting their application.

For those in urgent need of a passport, expedited services are accessible. These encompass the Online Premium service and the one-week Fast Track option.

Individuals requiring assistance with an online application can visit a Post Office branch. Staff members can capture a digital photo and assist in completing the application via the digital Check and Send service, although this incurs an additional charge.

Paper passport application forms can also be obtained from Post Office branches. However, the government indicates that applying by post typically takes longer than applying online.

Officials suggest that checking your passport now could spare travellers stress nearer to departure. With the Easter getaway on the horizon, ensuring documents are valid could prevent last-minute travel woes.