Some little secrets you learn on the way, like making sure
you find a map at the airport before you leave and always throwing spare
plastic bags into your suitcase for dirty clothes.
But we decided to save you time. Here’s our ultimate travel advice list.
Have we missed any? Let us know.
· Roll your
clothes when packing. No creases and more clothes fit into your suitcase.
· Be
prepared to sleep anywhere. Ear plugs and eye patches will help block out the
light.
· Learn how
to take a decent photo. Don’t come home with a bunch of Instagram selfies.
Memories fade and you'll want something to remember the scenery by.
· Use
public transport. It's fast. It's easy, it's cheaper and it will give you a
better travel experience. Get a map, learn the different ticket types and if
you are heading to London – organise an Oyster Card in advance.
· Use
little bottles for everything. It takes up less room. If you use plain bottles
make sure you label them with a pen that won’t wash or rub off. Mistakes can
and do happen. Moisturising your hair is not a good look.
· Buy and
wear good walking shoes. Blisters are not fun and high heels don’t work on
Europe’s cobblestone pathways.
· Know
where the embassy is. Seriously. Find it on your map. Don’t think just because
you are in a "safe" country you won’t need it. All it takes is a quick Google search, write
down the address and put it in a safe place.
· Eat where
the locals eat. Ask the locals where they eat. Go there instead.
· Scan your
passport and travel documents. Give copies to family/friends. If you lose your
passport or travel documents, this backup will save you a lot of heartache. It
will also help your family to find you in the event of a disaster.
· Be aware
of the local laws. Don’t get drunk on the streets of Dubai or expect to chew
and spit gum in Singapore. You’re leaving Australia - don't expect our law
system to follow you around the world.
· Get
travel insurance. It's obvious, but probably one of the most important items on
this list. The French always go on strike meaning your flight could easily get
cancelled and accidents do happen, particularly if you want to ride a scooter
in Bali. Get travel insurance.
· Be
respectful. Pay attention to how local women dress to work out how you should.
· Register
your details with DFAT. OK, this one is obvious but surprisingly so many of us
don’t actually do it. In cases like Boston or London, DFAT will be the place
your family will turn to. Make sure they know where you are.
· Always
carry a hard copy map of the city you're going to. Save your phone charge for
when you really need it.
· Learn how
to say "no thank you". Most travel advice columns will tell you to
learn how to say "hello",
"yes please", "thank you" and "do you speak
English?". But in some countries you really want to be able to say
"no thank you, please leave me alone". Think about the crowded market
places in Asia. Knowing how to say "no thank you" in their language
is going to give you a lot more peace.
