Information for Travellers

Here are some travel tips to make your trip as smooth and as enjoyable as possible.

  • Travel Alerts – The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade recommends you subscribe to receive the latest travel advice updates for your destination and current information for international travel.
  • Passport Validity – Check the expiry date of your passport well before booking your travel.. If it has less than six months remaining until it expires, renew it right away. Generally, most countries will not permit a traveller to enter their country unless the passport is set to expire at least six months after the final day of travel.
  • Visa Requirements ā€“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 Governmentā€™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 wonā€™t let you enter without travel insurance; similarly, most tour companies wonā€™t let you set off without insurance. Without travel insurance, youā€™re personally liable for any medical and associated costs you incur. The Australian Government wonā€™t pay for your medical treatment overseas or medical evacuation to Australia or a third country.
Here are some instances where travel insurance can protect your journey:
  • 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;
  • Thereā€™s a family emergency back home;
  • You need to pay for overseas funeral expenses;
  • Thereā€™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.
DID YOU KNOW?
Many policies donā€™t cover risky activities such as motorcycle and moped riding, skiing, parachuting, scuba driving or surfing. Make sure the policy you choose covers you for your holiday destination and the activities youā€™ll be undertaking. Donā€™t simply pick the insurance option thatā€™s the cheapest.
  • Travel documentation ā€“Make a copy of your itinerary and share it with a friend or family member in case of emergency. Itā€™s a good idea to give them a copy of your passport as well. You should copy and file important travel documents, including your passport, in case itā€™s lost or stolen. Keep one in your luggage and another in your wallet or purse. This makes for an easier process when contacting the Australian Embassy in the event of a problem.
  • Currency Exchange ā€“It is a good idea to convert some cash into local currency. Itā€™s always nice to have cash handy for a snack, the taxi when you arrive and tips.
  • Power AdapterĀ ā€“ Itā€™s a small item, but an important one. Make sure you invest in a power adaptor specific for your destination.
  • Medication – If you require prescription medication, ensure you pack it in your carry-on luggage. Itā€™s a good idea to have a letter from your GP, stating the name of the medicine, how much you are taking, and that it is for your personal use. Ā 
  • Vaccinations ā€“Ask your GP for recommended vaccinations for your destination. For some countries, certain vaccinations can be an entry requirement.
  • LAGs Bag – For international travel, pack your carry-on liquids, aerosols and gel products in a clear zip-lock bag. The maximum size you can carry for each is 100ml; larger and you risk them being kept at Customs. The Australian Border Force website has more information on prohibited and restricted goods, duty free limits and the tourist refund scheme.
Group 4Created with Sketch.

LATEST TRAVEL BLOG

Foodie Guide: Tantalise Your Tastebuds in Hong Kong

October 23, 2023

Switzerland Essentials ā€“ Six Must Do Experiences when Visiting Switzerland

August 30, 2023

A Travellers Guide to Exploring the World Safely

August 14, 2023

Send us an enquiry

Subscribe

Join our newsletter to receive the latest travel tips from ourĀ ATASĀ travel experts.