Travelling to another country can be exciting, whether you are going for a holiday, work, studies, business or to visit family. However, good preparation can save you from stress, unexpected costs and problems once you arrive.
Before you leave, take time to check these important things.
- Check your passport
Make sure your passport is valid and has enough time before it expires. Some countries require travellers to have at least six months of passport validity when entering the country. Also, check that you have enough blank pages if visas or entry stamps are required.
- Check whether you need a visa
Do not assume that you can enter another country without a visa. Entry requirements are different from one country to another and may also depend on your nationality and the purpose of your trip.
Check the official immigration or embassy website of the country you are visiting and understand whether you need a visa, an electronic travel authorization or another travel document.
- Check your flight details
Double-check your departure date, time, airport and terminal. If you have connecting flights, check the connection times and whether you need to change airports or collect your luggage during the journey.
Arriving at the airport early can also help you avoid unnecessary stress.
- Check your accommodation
Know exactly where you will stay when you arrive. Keep the hotel, hostel, apartment or host’s address and contact information somewhere you can access easily.
If immigration officers ask where you are staying, you should be able to provide the information.
- Check how you will get around
Do some research about transportation before arriving. Find out whether buses, trains, taxis or ride-hailing services are commonly used.
Knowing how you will travel from the airport to your accommodation can be especially helpful when you arrive at night or in an unfamiliar city.
- Check the weather
Do not pack based only on what you are used to at home. Check the weather forecast and the season in the country you are visiting.
You may need warm clothes, rain protection, comfortable shoes or other items depending on the destination.
- Check your money and payment options
Find out what currency is used and how people usually pay. Carrying some local cash can be useful, but you should also know whether your bank card will work there.
Check possible international transaction fees with your bank before travelling. It is also wise not to keep all your money in one place.
- Check travel insurance
Travel insurance can help protect you from unexpected expenses such as medical emergencies, cancelled flights, lost luggage or other travel problems.
The right coverage depends on your destination and the type of trip you are taking.
- Check health requirements
Some countries may have specific vaccination or health requirements for travellers. Check these requirements early, especially if you are travelling to a country where certain vaccinations are recommended or required.
Also, if you regularly use medication, make sure you have enough for the trip and check whether there are restrictions on bringing it into the country.
- Check the local laws and customs
A rule that seems normal in your country may be different elsewhere. Before travelling, learn about important local laws, cultural practices, dress expectations and behaviours.
Respecting local customs can make your trip easier and help you avoid unnecessary problems.
- Keep copies of important documents
Keep copies of your passport, visa, flight tickets, travel insurance and accommodation details. Store digital copies securely on your phone or online, while keeping physical copies separately from the originals.
This can be very helpful if your documents are lost or stolen.
- Save important emergency contacts
Know how to contact emergency services in the country you are visiting. You should also save the contact details of your country’s embassy or consulate if there is one.
It is better to have these contacts before you need them.
- Check your phone and internet options
Find out whether your mobile network works in the destination country and what roaming charges may apply. Depending on the country and your phone, you may consider an international plan or local SIM/eSIM.
Download important maps, booking confirmations and travel information before leaving in case you do not have internet access immediately after arrival.
- Check your luggage before leaving
Make sure you know the airline’s baggage allowance and restrictions. Check the weight of your bags and avoid packing items that are not allowed in your checked or carry-on luggage.
Keep important items such as your passport, money, medication and essential documents in your hand luggage rather than your checked bag.
- Check the entry requirements one more time
Travel rules can change. Even if you checked everything when you booked your trip, check the requirements again shortly before departure.
A few minutes of checking can prevent a major problem at the airport.
Travelling to another country is easier when you prepare before you leave. You do not need to know everything about your destination, but you should know the basics that affect your documents, money, health, accommodation and safety. A well-prepared traveller is more likely to enjoy the journey with fewer surprises.
Brenna AKARABO
RADIOTV10