If you are going abroad on a multi trip, it is important to be prepared, especially if you are visiting a few different countries. Never underestimate how crucial it is to set off knowing that everything has been taken care off. Here's how to avoid a stressful time:
Plan Ahead - this year it is well worth taking the time to plan your travels well in advance to maximise savings on airfares. Booking via the budget airlines makes sense as there are lots of new European routes available, and this year they seem to be more competitively priced. Booking your accommodation several months prior to travel is cheaper; villas in particular can be good value. Also be sure to let your friends know where you are going, give them a copy of your itinerary and roaming mobile phone number so they can contact you at any time.
Health issues - travelling can be both physically and mentally demanding. Check well in advance if you will be needing vaccinations; ensure that you have the correct exemption forms because in most EU countries you will be automatically entitled to emergency healthcare. Make sure that you have sensible medicines packed, painkillers, anti acid, Imodium, and a general first aid kit.
Packing - Your hold luggage needs to be padlocked. In some countries luggage without locks can be a temptation. Many people make the mistake and do not pack their essential items in a carry on; if your hold luggage goes missing you will still have these items with you. Items such as passports, wallets, drivers license, insurance details, valuables, medication and glasses or sunglasses are worth taking on the plane with you. Different countries mean different climates, if for example you are travelling from Australia to New Zealand you will need to pack your waterproofs and walking boots as well as your sun hat and swim gear.
Money matters- Avoid carrying lots of cash, travellers cheques are very useful, as are at least two ATM cards. Most countries have ATM machines now but sometimes it can be tricky to draw out money in developing countries especially if you may have recently used the card. Banks are more and more careful about checking transactions from lots of different countries and withdrawals can immediately be queried. This is something you want to avoid if trying to withdraw money for an entry visa in the middle of the night in Cambodia! Therefore having pin numbers for credit cards is advisable. It can be extremely stressful not having the correct currency but $US are very useful if travelling outside Europe. And remember to let your bank have your itinerary.
Visas and Documents - Always check whether you need visas for countries you are visiting, and apply for them in good time. Remember you will also require a visa if you are just staying overnight in transit for some countries. Make copies of all your documents; passports, traveller's cheques, insurance policies and credit cards and be sure to keep them separate. If you have the unlucky enough to lose your handbag or carry on bag then you will have all the details at hand. This will put your mind at rest.
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