Patty's Travel Tips

Passport
Ensure that your passport has at least six months validity from the date of your return to Australia.

Visa
Travellers leaving Australia with a foreign passport may require a re-entry visa. It is your responsibility to verify that your re-entry visa is current.

Travel Insurance
“If you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel!”

Travel insurance is essential to cover medical expenses, valuables, and any unexpected disruptions. Coverage for pre-existing conditions and activities such as skiing may also be available.

According to the Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade:
“Travellers without travel insurance are personally liable for covering any medical and associated costs they incur. The Australian Government will not pay for your medical treatment overseas or medical evacuation to Australia or a third country. Your family may foot the bill.”

Read more here: Travel Insurance

Cruising Insurance
Medicare benefits are not available for journeys between an Australian port and a foreign port, or between two foreign ports.

International Driving Permits
If you plan on driving overseas, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is often required when renting vehicles. Additionally, most car rental companies will require a credit card imprint before hiring out a vehicle.

Taxes
Airport taxes are typically pre-paid. However, some countries may still require local payment for arrival or departure taxes.
Some hotels charge a resort fee, payable on check-in.

Medication
If you cannot carry enough medication for your trip, bring a letter from your doctor detailing the medication, dosage, and its purpose. Some medications may be illegal in other countries, so a letter explaining they are medically prescribed for personal use can help at customs. Always pack medication in your carry-on luggage.

Australia has Reciprocal Health Care Agreements (RHCA) with 11 countries, which covers the cost of medically necessary care for Australians abroad. This does not replace the need for travel insurance, as not all services are covered and additional costs may arise.

Batteries, Phones & Other Gadgets

Charging Devices & Spare Batteries
Before you travel, make sure all your tech—phones, cameras, tablets—is fully charged. Bring essential chargers, power banks, and plug adaptors for your destination. When it comes to batteries, follow airline safety guidelines:

  • Common household batteries (AA, AAA, etc.) – allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage.
  • Lithium batteries (up to 100 Wh) – permitted in carry-on and checked bags, within airline limits.
  • Larger lithium batteries (over 100 Wh) – only allowed in carry-on luggage.
  • Non-spillable batteries – allowed in carry-on bags in limited quantities; no restrictions in checked luggage.
  • Battery packs / power banks – must always be carried in your carry-on; they are not allowed in checked bags.   Some airlines are prohibiting battery packs on board and in checked bags.   Must check before travelling.

Use and Charging Onboard

  • Do not use or charge: Many airlines now advise against or prohibit the use and charging of power banks during flights.
  • Smart bags: If you have a bag with a built-in battery, remove the battery and carry it in your carry-on luggage. All transmitting functions of the bag must be switched off.
  • Capacity and quantity limits:
    • Under 100 Wh: No specific limit on the number you can carry.
    • 100 Wh to 160 Wh: Maximum of two per person; prior airline approval is often required.
    • Over 160 Wh: Prohibited on passenger aircraft.
  • Damaged batteries: Do not carry or use batteries that are damaged, swollen, or defective—they pose a serious safety risk.

Packing Electronics
Keep all your tech items—cords, chargers, devices, and camera accessories—together in a single zippered bag to avoid tangles and clutter.

Tech Safety Abroad
Voltage standards vary around the world, so bring a travel power adaptor to avoid mishaps. A fully charged phone is crucial for navigation, emergency contacts, and last-minute bookings while on the move.

Using Phones Overseas

Roaming Services
Most Australian mobile providers offer international roaming services, allowing you to use your phone abroad. However, roaming charges can be expensive, especially for data usage. To avoid bill shock:

  1. Check your provider’s international roaming plans before departure.
  2. Activate a data roaming package or travel plan if your provider offers one.
  3. Turn off mobile data when not needed, and use Wi-Fi hotspots where possible.

e-SIMs
e-SIMs (embedded SIM cards) are becoming increasingly popular and offer a flexible, cost-effective way to stay connected abroad. With an e-SIM, you can avoid physical SIM cards and manage your mobile plan digitally. Many modern smartphones support e-SIMs, allowing you to:

  1. Purchase a local or international data plan online before or during your trip.
  2. Switch between your Australian provider and a local service seamlessly.
  3. Use your e-SIM for data while keeping your Australian number active for calls and texts.

Local SIM Cards
Buying a local SIM card upon arrival is another budget-friendly way to stay connected. Here’s how to get started:

  1. Check if your phone is unlocked: Most Australian phones are unlocked, but it’s best to confirm with your provider.
  2. Buy a SIM card: You can purchase local SIM cards at airports, kiosks, or convenience stores. Bring your passport, as ID is often required for registration.
  3. Top-up or choose a data plan: Local carriers offer affordable data, talk, and text plans. Choose a plan that suits your needs.

VoIP and Wi-Fi Calling
Apps like WhatsApp, Skype, and Facebook Messenger allow you to make free or low-cost voice and video calls using Wi-Fi. Most airports, hotels, and cafes provide free Wi-Fi, making this a great option for staying connected with friends and family back home without incurring mobile charges.

Phone Settings for Travel

  1. Turn off cellular data when not in use to avoid unwanted charges.
  2. Activate airplane mode and use Wi-Fi to conserve battery and data.
  3. Download offline maps and essential travel apps before departure to use without data.

Emergency Contacts
Make sure you save the local emergency number in your phone, as well as contacts for your country’s embassy or consulate in the destination you are visiting.

WhatsApp
Download WhatsApp before you go — it’s the most popular way to stay in touch while traveling. Why? Most locals, hotels, guides, and fellow travellers use it, so you can chat, share photos, and even make calls without international SMS or roaming charges. Plus, group chats make coordinating plans with friends or tour guides a breeze.

Vaccinations
Consult with your healthcare professional about recommended vaccinations and health precautions before departure.

First Aid Kit
Include the following in your travel first aid kit: painkillers, decongestant, bandages, and hydrocortisone cream. These basic supplies often come in handy during your trip.

Before Departure Checklist

  1. Centrelink Payments: Check how your absence from Australia may affect your Centrelink payments or concession cards.
  2. Power of Attorney: Consider appointing someone to manage important decisions and finances if you are unable to do so while abroad.
  3. Copies of Important Documents: Scan and email copies of your passport, travel insurance, itinerary, credit cards, and driver’s licence to yourself. Leave one set with a trusted contact at home.
  4. Bank Notification: Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid having your card blocked due to unfamiliar overseas transactions.
  5. Plant & Mail Care: Arrange for someone to water your plants and collect your mail.
  6. Language Basics: Learn basic phrases in the local language: “Please,” “Thank you,” “Sorry,” and “Do you have this in my size?”
  7. Currency Exchange: Exchange money ahead of time to avoid high rates at airports.
  8. Register Your Trip: Register with DFAT’s Smartraveller service before you leave.

Packing Tips

  • Check the Weather: This will help you choose the right clothes for your destination.
  • Roll Your Clothes: Rolling clothes saves space in your suitcase.
  • Pack Light: Lay out everything you think you need, then remove half the clothes and double the money.
  • Pack a Towel: A small towel is handy for beaches, picnics, or drying off.
  • Carry-on Essentials: Pack clothes and toiletries for at least two days in your carry-on in case of luggage delays.
  • Toilet Paper: Not all countries provide toilet paper, so bring small packs of tissues.
  • Water Bottle: Bring an empty water bottle to refill after passing through airport security.
  • Identify Your Luggage: Add a colourful ribbon or sticker to your bags to avoid confusion at baggage claim.

Travel Essentials

Driving
If driving overseas, bring an International Driving Permit and be aware of local traffic regulations.

Airline Check-in

  • International Flights: Arrive 3 hours before departure.
  • Domestic Flights: Arrive 1 hour before departure.

Reconfirm Tours & Transfers
Reconfirm your tours and transfers 24 hours in advance.

Keep in Touch
Let family or friends know your whereabouts and stay in regular contact to avoid unnecessary concern.

Early Starts
Wake up early to avoid crowds at popular tourist attractions and enjoy peaceful photo opportunities.

Photographing Your Journey
Make sure to capture memories by taking plenty of photos, but always be mindful of your surroundings and safety. Clean your phone camera lens, use the rule of thirds for composition, and take advantage of natural lighting for better shots.