Planning a holiday overseas? There are just a couple of things you might want to consider when preparing for your trip, to make sure your holiday is safe and low-stress.
Tip: Make sure people know where you are
Consider leaving copies of your travel itinerary and passport ID with a friend at home. If you’re driving or hiking in a remote area, tell someone where you expect to arrive and what time you’ll probably get there. Also, it doesn’t hurt to let the concierge of your hotel know when you’ll be back, if you’re alone and heading out for the day.
Tip: Planning
Unless you plan to spend every day on the beach, you might want to spend some time planning your itinerary for each day. This will help you avoid getting lost, running out of cash when you need it, or making yourself vulnerable in other ways. You’ll also look more confident and be less of a target for thieves or pickpockets.
Tip: Dress appropriately.
What might be fine for a summer day in Australia may be unacceptable or even illegal in another country. Check the local customs and dress standards before you pack to avoid trouble. Consider leaving your jewellery at home – even if it’s not real, it may make you a target for thieves if you wear it.
Tip: Choosing a hotel
Make sure the hotel you stay at is secure, with strong lockable doors and windows and preferably a reception desk that is manned 24 hours. Also if you are travelling with valuables, take the time to lock them in your room safe, along with your passport, travel documents and credit cards, when not in use.
Tip: Luggage
Can you run with your suitcase if you need to? Travelling light is a good idea, especially if you’re on your own. A good tip is to select only what you need, then take one piece of clothing that’s warmer than you think you’ll need, and one that’s cooler – it may be the very thing you’ll wear every day! A colour theme such as navy or black, with different accessories, can keep your packing light. And, of course, never leave your luggage unattended anywhere, or carry luggage for someone you don’t know – especially boarding an aircraft.
Tip: Medications
If you take medication, bring enough for the time you’ll be away, but also check with local customs departments that you can bring it into the country. Some medications, including contraceptives, are not available in all countries, and you’ll want to make sure they’re not going to be left at Customs. And don’t forget that regulations on travelling with liquids, aerosols or gels in your hand luggage apply for all international flights.
You might want to consider packing a simple first aid kit, with bandages, bandaids, antiseptic spray or wash, painkillers and stomach remedies. And if you’re heading to Asia or India, don’t forget your Traveller’s Friend!
Tip: Ask someone you can trust
Check with the hotel concierge about places to avoid, especially if you’re on your own. If you get lost and need directions, ask an official or if there aren’t any around, ask a woman with children – it’s usually safer.
Tip: Speak the lingo
Although many people worldwide now speak English, it’s a good idea to learn a few key phrases that you might need in the local language. For example, directions to your hotel or places you intend to visit, please and thank you, ordering food and asking for help.
Tip: Stay safe online
If you’re Tweeting your trip, or posting on Facebook remember to be careful how much you reveal about 
your whereabouts and plans for the trip, just as you would at home. And remember to take extra care overseas with your passwords and pin numbers.
Tip: Travel Insurance
And of course, while you’re packing your sarong and getting ready for lazy days and fun nights, don’t forget your Travel Insurance. The Cannex award-winning Worldcare Travel Insurance is cost-effective, easy to tailor your insurance to your needs and can cover you for situations such as emergency medical care, lost or stolen baggage, personal liability if you accidentally injure someone, and much more. You can find out more on the Worldcare Travel Insurance website, or call their Call Centre to arrange your cover. It won’t cost the earth, and it may be the best move you ever made.
Disclaimer
Any advice here is general only and does not take into account your specific needs or circumstances. Pre-existing Medical Conditions exclusions may apply. Please refer to the Product Disclosure Statement to consider whether our products are right for you and for details of policy benefits, limits and exclusions. Any medical advice here is general only and you should always seek advice regarding your specific situation from your medical professional. Mondial Assistance does not endorse the content of linked websites nor comments by contributors or the content of websites linked by contributors.