CHECKLIST BEFORE TRAVELLING – FIRST THINGS FIRST

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Although travelling can be hugely exciting, and something you might have saved for over a long period of time, it can turn into a nightmare if you have not prepared properly. Check the following pointers and ensure that you enjoy a holiday of a lifetime!

BEFORE YOU LEAVE THE HOUSE:

  • Stop regular services eg postal deliveries, garden services etc.
  • Arrange for a house and/or pet sitter.
  • Set automatic email responses in case you won’t (or don’t want to have) access to emails.

FINANCES:

  • Contact you bank informing them of your intended trip and ensure that your bank card will be accepted at ATM’s in your destination country/ies.
  • Budget properly and always allow for cash in case of emergencies. You can save a lot by not always eating out, but buy the odd French loaf, cheese and cheap wine – eating on a sidewalk!
  • Keep track of the exchange rates.
  • Have local cash available (for taxi’s or tips).
  • If all else fails, have someone you can depend on available for an emergency transfer.

HEALTH:

  • Get proper medical advice when planning your trip.
  • Get the necessary vaccinations (with documentation) well in advance – some vaccinations require repeat doses and/or may take time to take effect.

PASSPORTS, VISAS AND TRAVEL INSURANCE:

  • Ensure that your passport is valid until after your return and enough open pages are available for stamps at customs.
  • Check visa requirements in the destination countries and ensure relevant documentation is available on request.
  • Scan copies of passport, visa, and itineraries and keep copies on your electronic devices in case of these documents being stolen.
  • Take out travel insurance in case of lost baggage, missed flights or stolen property.
  • Email copies of these documents to family members.
  • Register with your embassy in the destination country so that they are aware of your presence in case of hazards.

ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATION:

  • Pack all chargers and accessories for all your devices (phone, camera, tablet) – cables, memory cards, extra batteries etc.
  • Make sure to pack an international power adapter (checking the voltage of the destination country).
  • Check with your mobile service provider that you have international roaming.
  • Research the various travel apps to find:
    • Transport,
    • Accommodation,
    • Restaurants,
    • Maps,
    • Check the weather,
    • Exchange rates
    • Local phrases to help you get around.

PACKING:

  • Travel light and use luggage that you can easily handle by yourself.
  • Pack ‘wash and wear’ clothes that can dry overnight so that laundry does not become a nightmare.
  • Leave space in your suitcase for purchases / souvenirs – keep track of the luggage weight!!
  • Make sure you have the following in your carry-on bag:
    • Toiletries
    • Extra set of underwear
    • Medication
    • Snacks to tie you over until you find a suitable restaurant (in case of a culture shock!)

… and last but not least –

DO SOMETHING RIDICULOUS!

Get out of your comfort zone (without breaking the law)!  You might never see this destination again –

  • Strip down to your undies and jump into a Mykonos nightclub pool at sunrise
  • Eat ox balls in Vietnam
  • Bungee jump off the Petronas Towers
  • Wear a ridiculous costume at the Mardi Grass

… NEVER forget this trip!

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