Ask the experts

by Gerard McManus | 06 May 2019

We asked some seasoned travellers about how to travel smarter. Here are the top four tips.

1. Get your travel insurance

We like to think our trip will run smoothly, but unfortunately occasional situations arise that are out of our control. We at Trade Travel can’t stress enough the importance of travel insurance. Travel insurance should be purchased as soon as you book your tour/holiday so you’re covered if you have to cancel or postpone. It’s very important that your insurance policy covers lost or stolen credit cards, cash and insolvencies. Always make sure your insurance provider offers 24-hour worldwide assistance.

2. See your doctor

See your doctor a few weeks prior to departure to obtain any relevant vaccinations you might need and extra medication for the trip. Don’t forget to request a note from your GP declaring the type of medication you will need to carry with you. Medications that are properly labelled with professional identification make for a smoother airport transition. Pack all medication in your carry-on baggage for 24/7 access or in case your bags are lost in transit.

3. Register your plans

We recommend you register your travel plans online with the Department of Foreign Affairs. The government website allows you to log your travel plans, where abouts and accommodation details and contact numbers in case you or your family members need to be contacted in an emergency.

Remember: double check the visa requirements for the countries you are visiting and make sure your passport has at least six months’ validity. Make a photocopy of your passport and travel documents including travel insurance policy, traveller’s cheques, visas and credit cards. Carry a copy with you separate from your main luggage and leave a copy with a family member or friend.

4. Money tips

Hotels and airports charge high rates for currency conversions. Find a local bank to get a much better rate for your cash or traveller cheques. ATMs are the easiest way to get cash overseas using your bank or debit card. Be warned that fees can be high for international transactions and you may also be charged by the ATM provider. Never use a credit card at an ATM to withdraw cash. You will be charged a fee and a high interest rate that often has no interest-free period.

National sponsor

Trade Travel is a proud Probus National Sponsor when it comes to travel. For more information visit tradetravel.com.au