Your dream holiday is booked—congratulations! There’s a lot to do before you say bon voyage, so don’t get lost in daydreams just yet. Here’s our pre-trip checklist to help your holiday go off without a hitch.
At least 3 months before your trip
Read up on your destination
Start familiarising yourself with your travel destination. Weather and transportation is important, but don’t forget the culture and customs. Knowing the dos and don’ts, as well as a few phrases in the native language, can help you avoid awkward or dangerous situations.
Passports & visas
Check the expiration date on your passport, and renew it if necessary. Apply for any visas you may need to ensure a smooth arrival.
Visit the GP
Check the Ministry of Health or SafeTravel websites for travel health alerts. If immunisations are recommended for visiting your destination, book these with your GP as soon as possible. Some immunisations require a series of shots over the course of several weeks to be fully effective.
Arrange care for your pets
Kennels can book months in advance and friends’ plans may prevent them from committing closer to your departure date. Arranging care for your furry friends now can save you scrambling for help later. Consider finding some backup sitters, just in case!
One month before
Gather device accessories
Make a list of the electronics you plan on bringing (smartphone, tablet, laptop, camera), and start collecting or replacing the chargers and cords you’ll need to keep them going. Include other items such as plug converters, extra camera batteries and SD cards that you may want on hand.
Assess your luggage
When was the last time you inspected your luggage? Broken zippers, wheels and handles may have been overlooked on your last return home. Also check that both your carry on and checked luggage meet airline size requirements. Replace any bags that are no longer travel ready.
Check credit card expiration dates
If you plan on using a bank or credit card overseas, make sure it will still be valid when you arrive. Order new cards if your current ones are set to expire whilst you’re away. You can also let the bank know where you’re headed to avoid suspicious activity alerts or having transactions declined.
At least one week before
Start packing
Last minute packing can cause pre-travel stress and lead to forgotten items. Start planning your packing early so you have plenty of time to finish laundry, refill prescriptions or buy necessities. Make a list of things you’ll need to use the night before departure and pack them right before leaving.
Ask a neighbour or friend for help
If you’re not using a house sitter, then ask a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on your home whilst you’re away. Have a spare key cut, if needed, so they can get inside in case of an emergency. Leave a copy of your itinerary and how you can be reached with them as well.
Sort your money
Your credit cards are ready, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand. Set aside money to exchange on arrival for taxis, public transport, or tips. Consider getting a travel card through your bank. Many can be pre-loaded with multiple currencies and will help you avoid transaction fees.
The night before
Gather travel documents
Passport? Tickets? Itinerary? Make sure every member of your family or group has these essentials packed in their carry on or handbag.
Check-in online
Many airlines allow passengers to check-in for flights as early as 24 hours before departure. Take advantage of this service, if available, to save yourself some time at the airport. You may also be able to select new seats or request upgrades.
Confirm your ride arrangements
If a friend or family member is dropping you at the airport, confirm your pick-up time with them. Book a taxi, or decide who will request an Uber, and when.
Check the weather at your destination
Do one final weather check of your destination to ensure you’ve packed correctly. Unseasonably warm or cold temperatures could mean last minute wardrobe changes. A small umbrella is handy if rain is predicted.
The day of
Check your flight status online
Planes can be delayed for any number of reasons, but severe weather is the usual culprit. Check that your departure is still on-time. If it’s not, contact the airline to get an idea of how long it will be delayed and when you should arrive at the airport.
What’s on your pre-travel checklist? Is there anything we forgot to add? Share your travel tips with our Facebook community!
About Author: Momentum Life is a leading provider of Life insurance and Funeral insurance in New Zealand.
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The content provided in this article is for information purposes only. The information is of a general nature and does not constitute financial advice or other professional advice. To the extent that any of the content constitutes financial advice, it is limited to Momentum Life products only and does not consider your specific financial needs or goals. You should consider whether the information is appropriate for you and seek independent professional advice, if required.
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