Lonely Planet | Travel services

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

'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.