Going on holiday abroad can be an exciting time but it can also be a stressful time before you even leave the country. If you’re looking to have a stress-free holiday to get away from reality for a while, make sure to check out our list of important things everyone needs to do before travelling abroad below!
Packing – the best part about going on holiday. Whether you are a neat packer or the type of person to shove everything into your suitcase last minute, make sure you pack everything you need.
There are probably countless occasions where people forget things that they end up having to buy a replacement when they get to the airport (phone charger, adapter, toothbrush…ring a bell?). Save yourself the money and time by having a checklist of things you need to bring with you on holiday. It is better to pack more than it is to pack less as it is better to be safe than sorry! Not forgetting the most important things you’ll need your passport and plane tickets! You won’t even be able to leave the country without these so make sure you have these in your hand luggage.
This is one that some people may overlook when it comes to travelling to another country. Rather than just assuming that your passport will be accepted when it comes to entering a country abroad, make sure to check the entry requirements. Some countries may require you to get a visa or have certain vaccinations before you enter the country so make sure you double-check that this doesn’t apply to you! Some visas can take up 3 months or even longer so apply for visas well in advance.
You might be going abroad for some sun, sea, and sand but the weather forecast may say that there is torrential rain the whole time you are there. Check the weather before you go and pack accordingly – wearing flip flops with a t-shirt and shorts when it’s forecasted for heavy rain and thunderstorms in 5-degree weather might not be the best outfit to wear.
Don’t forget to exchange money before you go on holiday. You might find that you get a better rate exchanging money in advance rather than when you get to your destination. Take advantage of any offers or deals that might help you stretch your money further. Aim to exchange more money than you are looking to spend in case of emergencies and even if you don’t manage to spend it all on holiday, travel currency bureaus can buy your foreign currency back from you.
You might be so excited to go on holiday that you can forget the last thing you should do before you leave: turning off the gas and locking the door. While the prospect of getting away couldn’t come any closer, turning off the gas and locking your door before you leave will mean you won’t be coming back to any nasty surprises.
Travelling abroad means you get to explore and experience a different culture. However, some cultures may have certain customs and laws that need to be followed. This may mean you are unable to behave or dress in a certain way. Not researching about the country and their customs can result in serious penalties and imprisonment.
However, don’t only limit your research on your destination to the customs and rules they have. Find out what where are the best places to visit or what local food you can try while you are there. Do as much research about where you are going in advance so you can make the most of your time there.
This might sound really stupid but always check your luggage allowance. Whether you are a frequent flyer (or a not so frequent flyer), all airlines are different when it comes to luggage allowance. Checking your luggage allowance will help you make sure you don’t exceed your luggage allowance which can result in more costs for yourself. It will also mean you might need to be more conscious of what you’ll be packing and how much to pack too!
Always turn up to the airport early – it is better to be early than it is to be late. Aim to get to the airport a few hours before you are due to take off. This will give you time to check-in and maybe grab a bite to eat before you board the plane. Getting to the airport early will also mean you won’t have to rush about and it will give you time to really sit back and relax before you have a great holiday abroad!
This can also be another thing that is overlooked. Jetting off on holiday can make you really excited and you’ll probably get lost in all the packing and counting down the days that you might forget to do this last thing: learning the language.
While English is a widely spoken language in many countries, it would be wrong to assume that everyone you encounter when you are abroad is able to speak English or even understand it. Take the time to learn the basics such as ‘please’ and ‘thank you’. Basic phrases to ask where the nearest toilets are or where you can get a taxi can really help you out. Locals will appreciate your efforts in learning their language and will probably be more likely to help you out if you are stuck.
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