Heading off on your first big overseas trip is always an exciting milestone for any adult, but it one that is easy to get wrong if you do not put the prep in beforehand! Yes, it’s not exactly as exciting as jetting off and exploring wonderful new places with good friends, but it will stop things from getting overwhelming or going wrong, so it is definitely worth doing the following 10 things before you fly off!
1. Passport Panic Check
Before you do anything else, you’re going to want to do the passport panic check. Is it valid? Is there enough time left on it for your destination’s requirements? If your passport photo is a decade old, enjoy that trip down memory lane, but maybe it’s time for an update. Without all things in passport land being well, you simply will not be able to get on that rip in the first place, so be smart!
2. Visa Vexation
Oh, and it’s also really smart to check if you need a visa for the place you are visiting because that stuff isn’t always obvious, and what you need to do to get visa can range from a simple online form to a full-blown paperwork party, which means, the sooner you get the ball rolling, the lest chance of a last-minute holiday disaster.
3. Money Matters
Notify your bank to avoid the ‘helpful’ freezing of your card mid-transaction while you’re trying to live your best life in Thailand or travelling in the middle of nowhere Australia. Also, it may be a good idea to sort out some local currency because not everywhere takes plastic, and you don’t want to be stuck unable to pay for that must-have snack at the street market.
4. Insurance Assurance
Get travel insurance. It’s like a safety net for your safety net. Lost luggage, cancelled flights, or unexpected medical issues – insurance has got your back.
5. Health is Wealth
Check if you need any vaccinations or medications for your destination. It’s better to be safe than sorry, especially when ‘sorry’ involves tropical diseases.
6. Packing Perfection
Now, onto packing. This isn’t just throwing clothes into a bag; it’s an art form. Pack light but smart – versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched. And remember, comfort over style when travelling – but if you can rock both, kudos!
7. Shop for the Right Clothing/Gear
Depending on your destination, you might need specific clothing or gear. Heading to the mountains? Get good boots. Off to a conservative country? Pack respectful attire. Hitting the beach? Time to go shop for bikinis or trunks. Remember, clothing that makes you feel confident and comfortable is key – this is not the time for those ‘I’ll slim into these’ jeans.
8. Copy That, Over
Make digital copies of your important documents – passport, visa, insurance. Email them to yourself or store them in a secure cloud service. It’s the digital equivalent of ‘mum’s advice’ to always wear clean underwear.
9. Itinerary Intelligence
Have a rough itinerary. You don’t need a minute-by-minute plan, but knowing the must-sees and how to get there saves precious adventure time.
10. Language Basics
It might not be strictly necessary, but it is always a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in the local language. ‘Please’, ‘thank you’, and ‘where’s the bathroom?’ can go a long way to making your trip run more smoothly and it’s a great way to get to know the locals and truly immerse yourself in their culture.
Have an amazing trip, with these tips, it is sure to be a good one!
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