While not everything needs to be planned down to a T, some things are essential, no matter where you’re headed. In this post, we’re listing ten of the most important things you should consider before you head off on your travels. You can thank us later.
1. Check If You Need A Visa
As much as we wish it were possible, you can’t just fly anywhere at any time. Instead, each country deals with visas differently. Some won’t require one at all, others will grant you one on entry, and some will require an application in advance. Don’t get caught out, check in advance.
2. Ensure You Have Travel Insurance
Whether you need to take out travel insurance or you already have it via your bank, it’s worth going over your policy and ensuring you understand each element. In some cases, specific destinations or activities aren’t covered. So, do your homework and plan accordingly.
3. Check The Weight Of Your Baggage
There’s nothing quite like reaching check-in ahead of your flight only to get slapped with an additional baggage fee. They don’t come cheap. Avoid this happening by weighing your baggage before you set off and lose any unnecessary weight.
4. Have A Safe Place To Store Cash And Documents
This one goes without saying. Whether you choose a wallet or a money belt, you need a safe place for your valuables. Plus, remember to keep them on you at all times.
5. Check Your Passport Is Valid
It’s nothing short of heartbreaking to find out your passport is no longer valid a matter of days before your trip. Save the stress, and check beforehand.
6. Stock Up On Medication
If you need particular medication for your travels, ensure you’re stocked up. You should leave plenty of time to order and fill your prescriptions, so you’ve got everything you need to stay healthy for your trip.
7. Think About The Environment
When you’re packing the essentials, consider your destination. For example, in some countries, tampons and makeup wipes can cause all kinds of problems. Perhaps now is a good time to switch to a more sustainable option. The same goes for water bottles too.
8. Learn The Lingo
While there’s no need to be fluent, it’s always good to brush up on the local lingo before you head off. It’s an excellent starting point and will help you feel more confident.
9. Keep Copies Of Your Itinerary
Not only should you have multiple copies of your itinerary, but someone at home should also have one too. Just in case you misplace yours or run into trouble, it’s good that others know where you are and where you need to be.
10. Don’t Forget Technology
When you see the world, you want to capture the special moments. Rather than getting ripped off at the airport, ensure you’ve got your chargers, adapters, and memory cards in order well in advance.
Now, it’s time to get planning!