How to prepare before you travel

6 months before you depart:

• If you are travelling overseas and you don’t already have a passport, get one!  If you already have one, ensure that it still has 6 months of validity left by the end of the trip, as this is an entry requirement for some countries.  Also ensure that there are several blank pages left.  Some countries are very strict and may refuse entry.
• Think about what you like to see and experience in your travel.  Consider the local weather and festival or events you may want to see.
• Check your budget. You may have to be creative if you have a limited budget.  Consider taking a job before or during your travel.  You may have to redo your plan accordingly.
• Check for plane tickets on the Internet to get the best fare or visit a travel agency for general enquiry.
  

3 – 4 months before you depart:

• Book the tickets for plane or other transports.
• Take out travel insurance.  Check your credit card terms as some provide travel insurance if you use it to purchase the plane tickets.
• Organise any visas you may require.
• Make arrangements for your accommodations.
• Get a medical check up and consider vaccinations if you are travelling to high-risk areas.  Check with your doctor to discuss your travel plan.
  

1 – 2 months before you depart

• Obtain credit cards, debit cards or traveller’s cheque to access your money while overseas.  Think about making extra fund accessible in case of emergencies.
• Let your bank know that you will be travelling overseas.  Otherwise your transactions may be considered fraud resulting your debit or credit cards to be blocked.
• Buy or borrow your travel gears you may need.  Consider the types of activities you will take and climate of the countries you are visiting.
• Obtain any discount cards (ISIC, youth card, etc) that you are eligible for.
  

1 – 2 weeks before you depart

• Copy your important documents such as passport, credit cards, itinerary for your family or friends and another set in your bag
• Obtain your financial institutions’ overseas contact details.  In case of stolen wallet, you want to report it immediately.

1 – 2 days before departure

• Pack your bag or suitcase and check the weight.  Check your ticket’s condition for allowable weight.  Excess baggage can be costly.
• Reconfirm your flight with the airline

Day of departure

• Double-check packed travel gear
• Run over this checklist one more time
• Remember to bring your passport and flight ticket with you