Ready to embark on your next adventure?
Here, you'll find a collection of helpful tips, and practical advice to enhance your travel experiences. Whether you're a first-time traveler or a seasoned explorer, this page is designed to make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.
Please note that the travel advice provided on this page is based on my personal experiences and opinions. The information shared here is intended to offer general guidance and should not replace thorough examination and verification of travel-related details.
Please note that the travel advice provided on this page is based on my personal experiences and opinions. The information shared here is intended to offer general guidance and should not replace thorough examination and verification of travel-related details.
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Before you Leave
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Packing
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En Route
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> 3 months before
- Check your passport - it must have 6 months validity beyond your return travel date
- Make sure you have all the required visas
- Visit your local travel health clinic (if required)
- Buy travel insurance (this should be purchased at the time of booking)
- Make arrangements for house / pet care
1-2 weeks before
- get foreign currency
- get an eSIM for your phone
- If you don't already have it, download WhatsApp to your phone (so you can make calls using your eSIM)
- Check you have sufficient prescription medication and your first aid kit is complete
- Make digital and hard copies of all important documents (passport, visas etc.)
A note on eSIM
Unlike traditional SIM cards, an eSIM is simply downloaded to your device and is a very economical way to use your phone for data when you are travelling to many destinations internationally. No need to pay the expensive roaming fees.
Your phone must have dual SIM capabilities.
There are many companies to choose from, here are just a couple of options.
Check their websites to see if your phone is compatible and for more information.
Your phone must have dual SIM capabilities.
There are many companies to choose from, here are just a couple of options.
Check their websites to see if your phone is compatible and for more information.
Carry On |
Checked / Hold Bag |
Here are the essentials to consider putting in your carry on bag. Think about what you really need for the next few days should your checked bag not arrive at your destination.
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I personally favour travelling exclusively carry on (I find it much simpler, and easier), but I recognise that isn't for everyone. So, here are some suggested items for your checked bag.
- Handbags/Purses Make sure to pack a variety of clothing options that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits. Consider the weather at your destination and plan accordingly. Don't forget to pack any specialised clothing items for specific activities or events you have planned. |
Checking In
Download the airline App.
Check in on-line, 24 - 48 hours prior to your flight (varies between airlines)
Sign up for text flight notifications
Check in on-line, 24 - 48 hours prior to your flight (varies between airlines)
Sign up for text flight notifications
Delayed / Cancelled Flight
All airlines travelling to / from Canada are subject to the Air Passenger Protection Regulations. (Other regions have similar agreements)
In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, the airline must:
Depending on the reason for the delay or cancellation, an airline has minimum obligations to passengers. These obligations vary according to the size of the airline.
In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, the airline must:
- inform you about your rights and the remedies available
- provide the reason for the disruption
- give regular status updates during the delays
Depending on the reason for the delay or cancellation, an airline has minimum obligations to passengers. These obligations vary according to the size of the airline.
Denied Boarding (uncommon)
If the flight is overbooked, Airlines will voluntarily look for passengers to give up their seats.
If you aren't in a rush you can use this to earn some cash / credit and possible upgrades - you will need to negotiate!
If it isn't voluntary they are obliged to adhere to compensation standars (if the reason is within the airlines control and not required for safety reasons).
If you aren't in a rush you can use this to earn some cash / credit and possible upgrades - you will need to negotiate!
If it isn't voluntary they are obliged to adhere to compensation standars (if the reason is within the airlines control and not required for safety reasons).
Lost / Delayed / Damaged Luggage
As soon as you realise there is a problem, report it to the local airline staff and record / document all interactions.
Under the Montreal Convention, airlines around the world are required to compensate travellers for any "reasonable" expenses incurred, such as the interim purchases to replace missing clothes and other essentials.
Keep all receipts related to these "reasonable" expenses
Make sure you submit your claim within the required time frame
Under the Montreal Convention, airlines around the world are required to compensate travellers for any "reasonable" expenses incurred, such as the interim purchases to replace missing clothes and other essentials.
Keep all receipts related to these "reasonable" expenses
Make sure you submit your claim within the required time frame
Long Layover
Buy a pass for an Airport Lounge * Have a sit down, leisurely meal * Freshen up in an Airport shower *
use the airport gym / go for a walk around the terminal * Some airports have museums and LAX even has therapy animals available * Visit an airport hotel swimming pool / spa * City tour - some airports offer guided city tours (but you may need a visa and will need to allow time to clear customs, immigration and security) * check in to a transfer hotel * rent an airport sleeping pod *
use the airport gym / go for a walk around the terminal * Some airports have museums and LAX even has therapy animals available * Visit an airport hotel swimming pool / spa * City tour - some airports offer guided city tours (but you may need a visa and will need to allow time to clear customs, immigration and security) * check in to a transfer hotel * rent an airport sleeping pod *