Embarking on an overseas adventure is always an exciting endeavour, but you must do your homework while planning for your trip to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Here are some key considerations that I always look up online or keep in mind before I set off overseas:

1. Weather and Best Time to Travel:

• Research the weather patterns of your destination to determine the best time to visit. Yes, wet season is typically a cheaper time to travel but do you really want to spend your holiday in the rain?

• When planning your trip, consider factors such as temperature, rainfall, and seasonal events. Maybe you'll travel to Japan during the Chery Blossom Festival, see the Naadam Games in Mongolia, or attend the water festival in Myanmar.

2. Packing Essentials:

• Pack clothing appropriate for the destination's climate and activities. Do some research prior to leaving e.g. if you're going to Iceland, you will definitely need some hiking boots.

• Include versatile items that can be layered for varying weather conditions.

3. Currency and Conversion:

• Identify the currency used in your destination and familiarise yourself with the current exchange rate.

• Consider exchanging currency before your trip or withdrawing cash upon arrival. I prefer to wait to get cash until arrival at the airport and will take it out at an ATM. Be prepared to pay fees as you usually get charged to use the ATM.

4. Payment Methods:

• Determine whether cards are widely accepted or if cash is preferred in your destination.

• Locate ATMs in advance to ensure access to funds during your stay.

• Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with international transactions or ATM withdrawals.

5. Time Difference:

• Check the time difference between your home country and your destination to avoid jet lag and adjust your schedule accordingly. Consider the time at your destination and whether you should be sleeping on the plane or not.

6. Safety Warnings:

• Visit reputable websites such as Smarttraveller to review safety warnings and travel advisories for your destination.

• Stay informed about potential risks and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety.

• Send your travel itinerary, hotel bookings or similar to a friend or family members, so someone is tracking your trip and knows where you should be at all times

7. Embassy Information:

• Locate the nearest embassy or consulate of your home country in the destination.

• Keep their contact information handy in case of emergencies or assistance needs.

8. Water Safety:

• Inquire about the safety of drinking water in your destination.

• Decide whether to drink tap water or purchase bottled water accordingly.

9. Visa Requirements:

• Determine if you need to obtain a visa prior to departure or if you can acquire one upon arrival.

• Initiate the visa application process early to avoid delays. Sometimes you will need to send your passport away to the embassy so keep that in mind

10. Passport Vidaility

• Is your passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended return date?

• Double-check the expiration date and renew if necessary to avoid any last-minute complications.

• Make sure you have at least one spare page in your passport before travelling and it is in good condition. Consider a waterproof sleeve to protect your passport.

11. Travel Insurance:

• Secure comprehensive travel insurance to protect yourself against unforeseen circumstances such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost belongings. You never know when you may need it. I have had to claim twice after trips, and both times, I have been pleased with what I got back in compensation.

12. Travel Adapter/Converter:

• Choose a reliable travel converter or device to facilitate electrical conversions during your trip. Which charging cords will you need? Phone, laptop, toothbrush, camera, power bank…

13. SIM Card Options:

• Research SIM card options for mobile connectivity during your stay.

• Decide whether to purchase a local SIM card or activate an international roaming plan with your current provider. You will find it costs a bomb if you want to use your own phone plan so make sure to put your phone on aeroplane mode once you get on the place

14. Carry-On Essentials:

• Ensure liquids are packed in containers of 100ml or less and placed in a clear, resealable plastic bag as per airport security regulations.

• Pack essential items such as headphones, medications, and travel documents in your carry-on luggage and a warm scarf - planes can be cold places

15. Luggage Requirements:

• Check weight limits for both carry-on and checked luggage to avoid additional fees or inconvenience at the airport. And the fees are ridiculous, I’ve only paid it once and never again.

16. Vaccinations and Health Precautions:

• Consult a healthcare professional or visit a travel clinic to determine necessary vaccinations and health precautions for your destination. Ensure to book your appointment in plenty of time, as sometimes you may need to get multiple shots or in a certain time frame prior to leaving.

• Carry essential medications and prescriptions in their original containers, along with copies of prescriptions.

17. Emergency Contacts and Documents:

• Carry a copy of important documents such as your passport, visa, travel insurance policy, and emergency contact information.

• Store digital copies of these documents in a secure cloud-based service for easy access in case of loss or theft.

18. Transport

• Make sure to consider how you may get to your accommodation from the airport, train station, ferry… Does the country offer taxis, Uber, or tuk-tuk, or is their public transport to the main city? You can always organise a transfer to your accommodation, which is reliable, but this tends to be more expensive. But how cool is being greeted by a guy holding your name on a sign.

• If you are staying for a while, you may also consider hiring a rental car. Before booking anything, check the driving requirements and whether you need an overseas license. Also, check if you can get to the car hire conveniently—is it at the airport or in the middle of the city? Always do your research first!

By addressing these essential aspects of overseas travel preparation, you can embark on your journey with confidence and peace of mind, ready to embrace the adventures that lie ahead. Safe travels!

Is there something I have forgotten? What are your prerequisites before you leave? What are the essential things you research to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip? We would love it if you joined the conversation and left a comment below.