By now, you’re almost ready to go! However, there are always last-minute things to take care of. Here’s a handy checklist to ensure you haven’t overlooked anything.

Home and Domestic Responsibilities

  • If your whole household is traveling, make arrangements to pause or redirect mail and have someone collect any junk mail.
  • Pet care: Arrange for someone to feed and check on your pets. This is much cheaper than having to put them into care.
  • Home security: Set timers for lights, let a trusted neighbour know you'll be away, and avoid posting exact travel dates on social media.

Bills and Financial Preparations

  • Check which bills might arrive while you're away and prepay or schedule payments through online banking.
  • If you're unsure about amounts, arrange for e-billing so you can access statements online.
  • If your bank requires SMS verification for transactions, check whether these will work overseas. Some countries block international SMS delivery, so consider alternative authentication methods.

Packing and Essentials

  • Prepare a packing list based on the season and climate of your destination.
  • While most clothing will be casual, bring one dressy outfit for formal occasions.
  • Packing essential medications and carry a doctor’s note for any prescription medicines in case you need refills abroad.
  • Everyday items like chargers, power adapters, and portable battery packs are easy to forget but essential.
  • Basic medications like paracetamol and antacids are often only available in pharmacies overseas—bring a small supply with you.

Travel Documents and Security

  • Make copies of important documents such as passports, visas, travel insurance, and credit cards. Store them in a different location than the originals.
  • Digital backups: Scan your documents and email them to yourself or save them in secure cloud storage.
  • Bring a few spare passport photos—these can be useful if you need to replace lost documents.
  • Keep your travel insurance details handy and ensure you understand your coverage.

Organising Travel Plans

  • Use an A4 folder with plastic sleeves to keep travel documents organised in chronological order.
  • Print Google Maps directions to your accommodation and store them with your hotel bookings.
  • Save digital copies of transport schedules, tour confirmations, and event tickets for easy access.

Credit Cards and Money Management

  • Check the expiry date of all credit cards and request a renewal if one expires during your trip.
  • Confirm the balance and top-up options for any travel money cards you plan to use.
  • Notify your bank, credit card provider, and PayPal of your travel plans to avoid fraud alerts or frozen accounts.

Mobile Phones and Connectivity

  • If you need global roaming, activate it before departure and check rates to avoid unexpected charges.
  • Consider buying a local SIM card at your destination for cheaper data and calls. Alternatively, buy an eSIM (see separate article on these).
  • If using voicemail, decide whether to update your greeting—just be cautious about stating you're away for security reasons.

Flights and Airport Tips

  • Seat selection: Many airlines allow you to choose seats in advance—do this as soon as possible for the best options.
  • Online check-in: Most international airlines allow check-in 48 hours before departure, speeding up the airport process.
  • If transiting through certain airports, download their official app for maps, services, and updates.

Registering Travel with the Government

  • It is no longer necessary or recommended that you register your trip with Smartraveller, however, still register so that you can get their travel alerts and assistance in case of emergencies.

Luggage and Weight Limits

  • Luggage scales are a must! Excess baggage fees can be expensive, and different airlines have different weight allowances.
  • Be mindful of budget airlines—they often have lower baggage limits than full-service carriers.
  • If your suitcase is overweight, place your heaviest garment (e.g. coat or jacket) in an external pocket so you can easily remove it (and wear it) if challenged at check-in.
  • Australian airlines are strict on carry-on baggage weight (typically 7kg), so wear a jacket with deep pockets to store heavy items like chargers or books if necessary.
  • If you accumulate too many items while traveling, consider shipping excess luggage home using freight services. Avoid shipping new goods, as customs fees may apply.

Choosing the Right Luggage

  • Choose a suitcase that is sturdy yet lightweight with 360-degree spinner wheels for easy manoeuvring.
  • A wheeled carry-on bag is invaluable for navigating large international airports.

That’s it! Hopefully, these tips help you feel fully prepared. Buon viaggio!