handy travel tips
We want you to have a safe and fabulous trip. Here's a few tips to help you on your way:
luggage tips
- Never leave luggage unattended in a public place
- Label all of your luggage carefully and clearly
- Always keep receipts for any items you purchase overseas and wherever possible keep them separate from the items themselves
- Do not put Valuable items in checked luggage
- Check your luggage immediately on arrival overseas and on your return home. Should your luggage be damaged or personal effects missing, report it immediately to the airline at the airport and seek relevant compensation from them first along with written confirmation of the loss. (Usually a P.I.R – Property Irregularity Report)
- Travellers cheques should only be cashed on an immediate need basis. Unlike cash, they can be cancelled and fully refunded
- Do not leave cash, passports or travelers cheques in your room unattended
- Motor vehicles are targets for theft and are normally not a safe place to store or leave luggage
- Loss or theft or items whilst overseas must be reported to the police or relevant authority within 24 hours of the loss and a written report obtained
- If possible, don't take expensive items when travelling. Wearing or carrying valuable items can attract unwanted attention
- Carry Valuables in a front pocket or hidden money belt, not a hip pocket. Consider carrying a "dummy" wallet holding a small amount of cash
- Whilst sightseeing and going out, carry cameras around your neck or hidden from view
- When sleeping on a train, at an airport or anywhere public, clip or fasten your suitcase to your person or to the chair
- Ensure all personal items are taken from a taxi before paying the fare.Include a change of clothing and spare toiletries in your carry-on luggage
- Always keep your credit card in sight during transactions to avoid fraudulent transactions being made
medical tips
- To assist in avoiding Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) when flying, drink plenty of fluids, exercise regularly and avoid alcohol
- For a minor complaint if you need a doctor, dentist, or to go to hospital, obtain a recommendation from friends, relatives or contact the emergency assistance company. Obtain a report stating the nature and cause of the condition and keep the receipts
- Check any early special health requirements (vaccinations etc.) for your destinations
- Have any vaccinations you have had recorded on a vaccination certificate and remember to take it with you. Some countries may deny entry without it
- If you are on prescribed medication take an extra supply and keep it in a separate bag. Bring copies of any matching prescriptions. You may need a statement from your doctor if you are carrying insulin syringes or narcotics
- Carry a basic first aid kit. Don't forget the sunscreen and insect repellent
- Don't drink or brush teeth with tap water and avoid ice in drinks if you are unsure of the water quality.
- Beware of peeled fruits and vegetables that may have been washed in water
general tips
- Dress simply when exploring the sights so as not to attract attention
- If you need directions, go into a shop to inquire rather than ask a stranger in public
- If you take a taxi, note the number and the picture ID of the driver as you step in
- Avoid travelling alone after dark in an unknown area
- When taking tours or when doing organised activities ensure you only deal with a licensed operator
- Where additional transport or accommodations costs have been incurred, original accounts/receipts are required to support your claim
- Leave details of your travel agent and itinerary with a family member or friend
- Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months
- Take a copy of the address of your nearest Embassy or Consulate
- Carry two or more forms of identification including at least one photo ID. Never carry these all together
- Claims must be made within 31 days