Whether you’re going on your first international trip or you’re a veteran globe trotter, you always want to minimise the chance of problems whilst you’re away. Use this Traveller’s Checklist, so you can maximise your enjoyment.
Health Supplies
It’s a good idea to pack your own first aid kit, because you don’t want to be ill in a foreign country trying to find a pharmacy. This means you need to take enough of any prescriptions you take to cover your entire trip. Also take copies of your prescriptions in case you need a refill. You should also take familiar over the counter treatments for common problems too, such as antibiotic creams, hydrocortisone, sunburn relief, sun screen, eye drops, allergy medications, anti-nausea medication, stomach relief meds, pain relievers and multi-vitamins. Then you can treat minor issues without leaving your hotel room, and you can manage symptoms while you try to seek professional medical advice. And don’t forget your contact lenses or prescription glasses.
Insurance
International travel insurance covers a wide range of mishaps. It may pay for you to fly home because of severe illness or a death in the family. It typically covers lost luggage and the costs caused by travel delays. And it usually covers the cost of coming home or changing your itinerary because of severe weather or terrorism at your destination, though it won’t cover the costs of such events if there’s a travel warning issued before you schedule the trip. Note there are often restrictions such as having to cancel the trip within a certain period of time.
While travel insurance may help you get home early because of an injury, it doesn’t always provide coverage for the medical expenses themselves. Determine whether or not medical and medical evacuation costs are part of the insurance and find out if you need a short-term medical insurance policy to cover your medical costs while abroad. Note that these policies may not cover you if you’re engaging in risky sports or break the law.
When you’re traveling, have the contact phone numbers for your insurers saved to your mobile devices and written on paper stowed in your carry-on bag and purse. Then you can call the travel insurance company if your main luggage is lost or stolen.
Toiletries
Always take a good supply of toiletries. This includes deodorant, shampoo, soap, hair brushes, tooth brushes, tooth paste, female hygiene supplies, and any supplies you need to maintain medical essentials. For example, take your own contact lens cleaner when you go abroad. Hair products, shaving kits, travel towels, detergent and other products are useful to have so that you don’t have to figure out how to find/use local products.
Tech Support
You’re probably taking your cell phone and/or tablet. Don’t forget electrical converters or adapters so you can charge it wherever you’re going. Take spare batteries for cameras and other devices. If possible, take a spare charger. Don’t forget spare memory cards for phones, cameras and other recording devices.
