It’s a great idea to travel overseas, explore different cultures and see how other people live.  Often people just travel for fun and to see the world. However, if you intend to go into places where English is not the main language, it’s important to follow some tips to make your experience a positive one and ensure the time spent is not wasted.

  • Learn a few phrases of the main language. Don’t just follow the guidebook with phrases such as yes please and thank you. It’s important to also learn how to say no thank you. After all, you won’t want to agree to everything that is said if you don’t know what it is.
  • Remember that other countries have seemingly harsh penalties for what you may think is a minor infraction. Australian law is not in force just because you’re an Aussie. Learn the laws of the land and follow them.
  • Pack for the climate you are travelling to, not the one you are leaving. Most people pack too many of the wrong clothes.
  • Never leave any kind of drink unattended. If you forget, don’t drink it when you come back to your table.
  • Don’t keep valuables or ID in your backpack. In a crowd you won’t notice someone slip their hand into it. Keep it on your person, at the front where you can see what’s happening.
  • If you plan on hiking, do some long walks for several weeks before you leave to strengthen your muscles.

  • Make sure your credit cards work for overseas use before you leave home.

  • Get all the vaccinations necessary so your holiday won’t be spoiled by sickness.
  • It’s quite simple to wash small items in the hand basin in your hotel to save looking for a Laundromat.
  • While we usually change clothes every day at home, it’s ok to wear your jeans for at least 3 days, more if you are not doing anything dirty, such as rolling down sand dunes. If they don’t look dirty, don’t wash them.
  • Sew in a secret pocket or find some other hiding place for emergency cash, just in case you need it.
  • Take a few empty plastic bags for your dirty clothing so they don’t smell up your clean ones.
  • Carry a map of the city/country you are going to and don’t rely on your phone for it or other important information. A phone can be stolen, lost or go flat just when you need it.
  • Find the address for the Australian Embassy, write it down and keep it with you at all times, not just in your phone.
  • Pack thongs especially for use in the shower as some are gross and you don’t want to stand in them barefoot.