FAQsContact Us

Bookings and Services Travel Checklist

Hiker jumping between rocks in the Wasatch Mountains. Lonely Planet Images

For some of us, the best part of travel is the planning. For others, the mountain of stuff to be done before you take off is more befuddling than fun. Whichever way you feel, this is your one-stop spot to get essential planning tips - everything from visas, insurance and flights to staying healthy and crafty packing.

You'll get the best advice from our roving authors and our up-to-the-minute website, as well as a handy, printable checklist that comes with special offers. It's the perfect preparation for the perfect trip.

Visa icon

Travel Visas

  • Some visas kick in the minute they're issued, so get them as close to your departure date as possible.
  • If you're travelling overland to your destination, you may have to get your visa in advance.
Insurance icon Insure your most valuable asset - you.

Travel Insurance

  • Scan your policy and store it electronically.
  • Get a flexible policy in case you want to stay longer.
  • Visiting somewhere against your government's advice could invalidate your insurance.
Money & Costs icon

Budget & Costs

  • When budgeting, remember that every day on the road can cost twice as much as a day in one place.
  • Take a good mixture of credit and debit cards, travellers cheques and old-fashioned bank notes.
  • If you're travelling with friends, divide your money up: if one of you is robbed, the others will have cash.
Getting There icon Flights now on sale - compare online

Getting There

  • Between two months and two weeks before departure is the best time to pick up a bargain flight.
  • One-way tickets can be more expensive than return tickets: buy a return and ditch the second flight.
  • If you want to fly within your destination, it could be cheaper to buy a return ticket to one city with a stopover in the other.
Health icon

Travel Health

  • Go to a travel clinic for vaccinations six to eight weeks before you leave.
  • Avoid heat exhaustion by carrying water and using a hat and sunblock.
What to Bring icon

Travel Packing

  • Halve your stuff. Halve it again. Add books, washbag, medical kit and go.
  • Check government regulations in advance and leave prohibited items behind.
  • Pack emergency toilet paper - no explanation necessary.

 

Set Departure Region:
Tony Wheeler Traveller Tip
'When you come to a fork in the road, take it' goes that famous piece of travel advice, but it's always nice to know what the choices are. Try to make the time to try both routes. Closing quotes
Download the checklist (PDF, 260kb)

Limited time offers

Bonus Days on Eurail Pass
1 to 3 Days
Car Rental
10% Off
Exclusive offers on tours
View offers
Global SIM Cards up
Up to 75% Off
Teach English Overseas
15% Off with LP

iExplore Trips & Tours

Cycling Touring
Global trips
Everest base camp
Trek in Nepal
Explore China
View details
Explore Paris & surrounds
View details
Made-To-Order Tours
Personal guides