Smartraveller BasicsFor the best overseas trip!
No matter what type of trip you are planning, we’ve got the basics to keep you covered.
We’ve joined forces with Smartraveller to give you all the information you need to have a safe and fun overseas Schoolies/Leavers Trip or Gap Year.
We know there can be a lot of nervous energy going through the planning phases especially when reaching a middle ground with your friends about where to go and what to do. No matter what type of trip you are planning, we’ve got the basics to keep you covered.
Smartraveller's got all the advice you need for a safe time.
#Smartraveller Top Tips
01
Connect with the travel experts
Before you head overseas, make Smartraveller your first destination. Our good friends at Smartraveller have travel advice updates that go straight to your device when you subscribe. It’s super easy and will keep you in the know!
02
Make sure you are insured!
It seems expensive, but it’s definitely worthwhile. Make sure you’ve got travel insurance that covers all your activities. Thoroughly read the product disclosure statement (PDS), you might need to get extra insurance if it’s not in the policy. Having travel insurance is a MUST, not a maybe!
03
Be an organisation king/queen
Visa, passport and tickets… there’s so many bits and bobs that can go missing. Check them all and make sure you have a secure spot to store them throughout the trip! Don’t forget to make sure your passport is current and has at least 6 months before its expiry date, and make sure your visa is the correct one for your trip.
04
Top up on your fun facts
By fun facts - we mean know the law! Each country has their own unique laws and customs that you need to follow. This time, it’s up to you to know if something is illegal… not your parents! Remember to be respectful and follow the rules (even if some of them aren’t your vibe.)
05
Look after your health
Ask yourself these questions:
Are you in the best health to travel?
Do you need to take medication with you?
Is your medication legal in your destination?
Will you be able to find medication if you run out or get sick?
Do you need to get vaccinated before you leave?
If you’re concerned, have a chat to your doctor!
06
Keep your fam in the loop!
Stay in touch with your loved ones back home… they will definitely be missing you. If you can’t stay in contact regularly, organise a check in day and make sure you stick to it. While you're away, your friends become your family too. So, keep them in the loop about your whereabouts, help each other make the best decisions and always travel together!
07
Safety > Insta-worthy content
We love an insta-worthy shot but is it worth breaking an ankle? We think not! Make sure you know what situations you need to be careful of when overseas and put in safety measures so you can guarantee you’ll have a great time. Remember, don’t climb on walls or sit on balcony railings, be aware of changes in the water when you’re out swimming, and choose safe transport options.
08
Know who to ask for help
If something serious happens and you don't know how to handle it, ask for help. Local authorities, such as tourist police, should be your first point of contact, together with friends and family. The Australian Government is limited in how and when it can help overseas. It's important you understand their limits.