Travel checklist

With international travel finally back on the cards for many people, you may be dreaming of heading off to far-flung destinations.

Before you grab the suitcase, travel may be a little different to what you remember, so it pays to be prepared before you get on the plane.

Whether you’re a first-timer or seasoned traveller, our handy checklist can help ensure your trip goes smoothly.

The post-Covid travel check-list

1. Notify your bank that you’re going overseas. This is important for any overseas travel. Make sure you tell your bank of your plans to avoid your accounts being blocked for unusual activity. It’s also worth saving the international number for your bank in case you need to get in touch while you’re away. And it’s smart to organise multiple payment options, including a mix of cash and cards, to take with you.
   
   
2. Know your passwords. Check that you can log in to your app and internet banking before you go so that you can access your accounts overseas. Remember that if you’re using an international SIM, you won’t be able to access one-time passwords sent by your bank to your Australian number, so you may need to set up an alternate transaction password before you head off. Your bank should be able to help arrange this for you.
   
   
3. Make sure your passport is valid. Check your passport long before you even think about travelling to make sure it’s valid and allow plenty of time if you need to lodge your application or have it renewed. Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for at least six months from when you plan to leave the country, so check the rules before your departure date.
   
   
4. Ensure you have the right visas. Every country is different and it’s essential to known which visas you need before you travel. Don’t rely on previous or old visas as they may have expired or changed since you last travelled. Some visas are also issued electronically and won’t appear in your physical passport. Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you’re visiting for visa advice.
   
   
5. Take out the right travel insurance. It’s never been more important to make sure you have appropriate travel insurance in place and it may even be a condition of entry for some destinations. Check the product disclosure statement carefully to know exactly what your policy covers for Covid – in case you get it before you leave, while you’re away or if you have to isolate at home from a close contact.
   
   You may also need to specify if you’re planning any adventure activities like bike riding or snowboarding to ensure you’re covered by the policy. Same goes if you’re taking any valuable items with you – they may not be included in the blanket cover. Every policy is different, so make sure you carefully compare your options or consider enlisting the help of a travel agent.
   
   
6. Vaccination and documents. An International Covid-19 Vaccination Certificate will be an easy way to show your vaccination status if you need to. Australian passport or visa holders can apply for a Certificate via Medicare and myGov. Once you’ve got the Certificate, it will appear as a blue Australian Government document in the Wallet of your smartphone, with the dates of your vaccinations. Double check any other recommended vaccinations for your destination and be sure to pack enough medication for the duration of the trip, as well as a copy of the prescription.
   
   
7. Plan your trip carefully. Before you head off, check the latest travel advice for countries you’re planning on visiting. Give yourself plenty of time between connecting flights or consider staying overnight to allow for any delays or cancellations.
8. Know what to expect at check-in. The airline should notify you about what they require, such as a negative PCR, before you board. Aim to arrive earlier than normal (like 3-4 hours before an international flight) for extra peace of mind and save on stress by checking traffic updates or public transport schedules before you head off. If you’re travelling during a busy time or holiday period, expect long check-in lines and have your bags labelled and ready to go. Keep some N95 masks and hand sanitiser handy in your carry-on bag.