There’s a lot to consider when preparing for upcoming travel plans and it’s important to travel smart. That’s why we’ve made this extensive travel guide and checklist including what to consider before, during and after travelling.
Whether you are travelling for the first time or are an expert at world travel, this article has all the travelling tips and Australian travel advice you need to stay safe, organised, and problem free. Gone are the days of missing flights, forgetting documents, and over packing: our travel tips are here to make your trip a holiday to remember.
Before Travelling
Whether you plan on travelling around Australia or internationally, planning beforehand is required. Complete the following steps to ensure that your travel plans have a solid foundation for success.
Do Your Research
Research is an essential part of travel planning. Before you leave, make sure you look into the following travel tips for Australia and beyond.
o Travel Insurance (Domestic + International)
Travel insurance is optional, but is purchased by many travellers due to the security and coverage it offers. Travel insurance offers protection for medical expenses for illness or injury, flight cancellations, loss of property and other unplanned events.
o Vaccinations Required (International)
Depending on your travel destination, you may require vaccinations or other health checks before you depart. Get a health check to make sure you’re fit for travel and are protecting yourself and others against the potential spread of disease.
Arrange Travel Documents
Travel documents are undoubtedly the most important aspect of this guide. Without these important pieces of information, you won’t be able to travel internationally. Keep these documents organised and in a safe place.
o Passport (International)
Your passport is your most important piece of documentation when travelling. It is required to leave your home country and to be admitted to another country. In addition, your passport serves as an international ID, as many accommodation and entertainment providers, including bars & clubs, require a passport as a form of identification.
Before travelling, ensure that your passport has a minimum of 6 months left before its expiration.
If you need to apply for a passport or renew your current passport, do so a few months in advance to avoid problems or processing delays.
o Visas (International)
Visas are often required for international travel. If you don’t have the proper visa when you arrive at your destination, you will be refused entry. Some countries offer visas on arrival, while others require you to submit a visa application months in advance.
Check to see if you need a visa at least a couple months before travelling.
o ID (Domestic + International)
Most people carry their driver’s license or proof of age card around on a daily basis, but if your ID isn’t something you normally have with you, be sure to pack it for your travels.
Though it is not as important as your passport for international travel, it is a necessary tool for identifying yourself. You will need your ID at the airport, when checking in to hotels or hostels, when booking rental cars, and to gain entrance to bars and clubs in your country.
o Photocopies of Important Documents (Domestic + International)
Photocopies of important documents are essential when travelling. If you lose or misplace your travel documents, these photocopies will come in handy.
If you prefer to have your documents stored digitally, upload scans to the cloud and/or store them on a USB. Storing your documents online will ensure that you cannot misplace them, and they will be accessible from anywhere with internet access.
Make copies/scans of the following documents:
- Passport
- Other forms of identification
- Travel insurance
- Credit/Debit cards
- Visas
- Driver’s License
- Itinerary
- Tickets
- Emergency contact information
Money Plans
Getting your finances in order is an essential part of a successful travel plan.
o Create a Travel Budget (Domestic + International)
Create a budget for your travel expenses to ensure you have allocated the right amount of money for your trip. Include transportation to your destination (flights, train, car, boat), transportation once at your destination, accommodation, meals, entertainment, and other expenses.
It is also a good idea to include extra money for emergencies or unforeseen circumstances. When making your travel budget, consider the exchange rate where you’re going to ensure that your calculations are accurate.
o Contact Your Bank (Domestic + International)
Get in touch with your bank or credit card provider, especially before leaving the country. Some banks decline purchases made overseas and in distant locations to prevent fraudulent charges, so notify your bank of your travel plans and where you’ll use your card overseas before you leave.
It may also be helpful to ask about the currency conversion fees and other international transaction fees you will incur when using your card overseas.
Alternatively, you can get a travel money card which can be used like a debit card in international ATMs and at point of sale systems.
o Foreign Currency (International)
Although cards are accepted in nearly all destinations, it is wise to get a small amount of foreign currency before you leave. Having money on hand can be helpful, especially during the early stages of travel; at the airport, for taxi rides, and to tip.
Foreign currency ATM machines and exchange outlets are available at all major airports.
Packing
Packing the right things for your holiday will make a huge difference. Read on to find how and what you should pack.
o Carry-On Luggage (Domestic + International)
If you are travelling via plane, train, or other transportation where your baggage will be checked, it is important to consider what to pack in your carry-on baggage. Keep your valuables with you at all times.
Items to include in your carry-on luggage are:
- all travel documents, including copies;
- prescriptions, medicine, and required medical/health equipment;
- electronics like laptops, tablets, cameras, phones (and necessary chargers);
- money;
- change of clothing;
- entertainment
If something goes wrong and your luggage is misplaced, you will be glad you kept these important items with you.
o Clothing To Pack (Domestic + International)
The clothing to bring travelling varies from person to person. What you should bring depends on the weather, your planned activities, where you’re going, and personal style.
You don’t need to bring many things; you just need to bring the right things: it’s possible to pack 20 outfits in a carry-on suitcase. Stick to a colour scheme and pack smart.
o What Else To Pack (Domestic + International)
Avoid forgetting anything important by adding the following items to your packing list:
- Bathroom kit
- Toiletries
- Emergency drugs: these may not be readily available, depending on where you are going
- Electronics
- Including chargers
- Travel adapters if necessary: check voltage & outlet types
- Check prohibited items list to see what you cannot bring on board
- Medications
- Aerosols, gels, liquids
- Dangerous goods
- Biosecurity risk items: plants, fruits, seeds, etc. (in certain places)
During Travel
Consider the following during your holiday in order for your trip to run smoothly.
Local Awareness
Staying aware of your surroundings is crucial when travelling.
o Mind Local Laws (Domestic + International)
While travelling, be respectful of local laws. If you are unsure how the laws differ, consult the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s guides on individual countries and their laws.
o Respect Local Customs (Domestic + International)
As with local laws, it is of supreme importance to respect the customs of your travel destination. This includes dressing appropriately, and showing respect for religion, history, and government, among other things.
Ask advice from locals or others during or before travel if you are unsure of customs.
o Know How To Get Around (Domestic + International)
Depending on location, you may have many options to get from one place to another. Ask locals, check online, or ask at the information desk at the airport to find out which modes of transportation are available to you.
If you are considering driving overseas, check the road safety before doing so.
o Know Important Contact Information (Domestic + International)
Keeping important contact information can be helpful, especially in foreign countries. Know your country’s embassy or consulate number in case of emergency.
It’s also a good idea to keep your accommodation’s contact number, contact numbers of fellow travellers, and contact information for hosts, tour guides, banks, airlines, and insurance providers.
What’s Next?
Once you’ve followed all the above steps, you should be travel-ready. Now it’s time to make your plans and put them into action.
You’re on the right track for the perfect holiday. For a holiday apartment that’s as problem-free as your travel plans, contact Budget Apartments.
