• Visa Requirements –Australians are lucky; Aussie passport holders can visit 169 countries, either without having to get a visa or simply by getting one on arrival. It is vital that you check what visas are required for your destination and any transit points en route to your destination. If you are not travelling on an Australian passport then it is essential to also check your re-entry requirements to re-enter Australia.

  To find out if you need a visa for your international trip, visit the Australian Government’s dedicated website. It is your responsibility to arrange all necessary entry documentation. An ATAS travel agent may be able to assist you, so make sure you ask.

• Travel Insurance – When travelling overseas it is essential to purchase travel insurance to protect yourself against the unexpected. Plus, some countries won’t let you enter without travel insurance; similarly, most tour companies won’t let you set off without insurance. Without travel insurance, you’re personally liable for any medical and associated costs you incur. The Australian Government won’t pay for your medical treatment overseas or medical evacuation to Australia or a third country.

• Your flight is cancelled or delayed;
• Your passport or wallet is stolen;
• You need to cancel your trip due to illness;
• You have a medical emergency in a foreign country;
• The airline loses your bag;
• Your travel is delayed due to weather;
• There’s a family emergency back home;
• You need to pay for overseas funeral expenses;
• There’s a hijacking or terrorist attack; and
• Your peace of mind.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has partnered with independent consumer advocate CHOICE to provide a simple travel insurance guide for Australian travellers. You can check it out here.