‘If you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel’. Every trip that you go on requires travel insurance, even a domestic weekend getaway. You’d be surprised (and horrified) at what can pop up. Contact me for a quote, or click on the link to grab one for yourself.
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of your return trip, and the name on it must match your travel documentation exactly. Different destinations may have different visa requirements depending on the type of passport that you are travelling on and your citizenship status, so be sure to check on the requirements for your specific travel here.
Some countries can even require visas if you are only transiting through the airport, so remember to check these carefully or you may be denied boarding at the airport. Another great website to check is Sherpa
Make sure that you are familiar with all of travel documentation. Double check that names are correct as per passport, and make sure you are especially aware of any times shown, particularly those that may be in 24hr time. If you have any questions, I am a phone call or email away!
Take photocopies of any important documents – itineraries, passports, credit cards, licenses, insurances. Pack one copy securely in your luggage and leave another with a trusted friend or relative at home.
Check with your doctor is any vaccines are required for your trip. Make sure that your travel insurance covers any pre-existing conditions that you might have, otherwise you may not be covered for them. It’s also a good idea to check what restrictions there might be around any prescription medications that you’re carrying. Ask your doctor for a letter that states what the medication is, and why you’re carrying it, and make sure that it is in it’s original packaging.
I recommend that you subscribe to Smartraveller for up-to-date official advice on your destination, emailed straight to you as anything changes.
I recommend having more than one type of funds available to you for your trip. Check with your bank what they might offer in terms of currency conversion rates and foreign transaction fees on your regular card, and ask if they have a card specifically for traveller with lower fees. Alternatively, look into a TravelPay Money card, which offers 22 currencies at competitive rates with no international transaction fees, accepted anywhere Visa is accepted. Don’t forget to also exchange some cash in small denominations, especially if you’re visiting a country where tipping is expected!
Download an offline version of Google maps for your destination so that you will still have access to these when you are without mobile data, as well as any apps for train/bus timetables, airlines etc!
How are you getting to the airport? Make sure you allow plenty of time for traffic which can change depending on the time of day. I recommend a Google Maps search at the correct time of day prior to your trip, and ensure that you allow additional time for any roadworks, parking etc. I can also arrange and airport transfer for you, just ask!
Be sure to contact your provider to find out what they charge for calls and texts overseas and ensure your settings are correct if you don’t want to incur these charges. You may need to purchase a SIM overseas (check that your phone is unlocked first!), or rely on wifi in order to contact family and friends.
You may need an International Driving Permit, depending on your destination. Check out the RACV website for more information.
There are restriction around what you can and can’t take onboard an aircraft. Check with your specific airline on their weight restrictions, but also the physical size limit of the bags allowed. Any liquids or gels for International travel in your carry-on bags must be less than 100ml in size, and must be stored inside a plastic snapback bag no bigger than 20cmx20cm, easily accessible to get out during the security screening. There are also restrictions on powders over 350ml and lithium-ion batteries.
Check if the country that you’re travelling on will require a power adaptor so that you can use your charges, hairdryers etc. I recommend that sort that includes a USB port!
Depending on how long your transit times are, airport lounges can be a lifesaver! Your frequent flyer card, or business class ticket may include access, but if not, you can purchase one ahead of time for most lounges. Just ask me!
Ensure you have purchased a luggage lock, and that your bag is labelled with your name and phone number. Check the weight requirements of your luggage, and don’t forget to check the name on the bag each time you collect it from the carousel!
