I know a thing or two about getting the most out of your holiday, having been a Travel Agent in my former life PC (pre-covid) and believe me, it all starts before you leave home!
There is ALWAYS a whirlwind of activity right before you depart, time runs away from you and in all the chaos it can be easy to forget the simple things.
Here are some of my tips to ensure that when you do hit the open road, or the Big Bird leaves the tarmac you are not revisiting that scene from Home Alone, when it dawns on Mrs. McCallister that she has forgotten something!
Around home
Absolute top priority – Who is taking care of the fur babies? Ensure you have a valid vaccination certificate for your pet, medication, contact details for your Vet and of course any loved blankets, toys. If you are like me and not thrilled with putting your preciousness into a kennel, a home stay is a fantastic option. Extra Hands with Extra Love provide the closest thing to being at home. Our Jack Russell “Joy Delicious” was spoilt rotten by Tamara and her family, my biggest concern was she would not want to come home!
- Rubbish bins – Who is taking them out AND bringing them in?
- Collection of papers & mail – a dead giveaway to the local cat burglar that your away
- Cancel any deliveries
- Lawns – make sure there mown before you leave and maintained when your away
- Unplug non-essential appliances like TV & computer
- Pay any bills – you do not want to deal with finances when you are trying to relax
- Let the fridge run down – consume or donate any perishables
- Leave some washing on the line – always a good deterrent!
- Clean the house – sound a bit crazy? There is nothing worse than coming home too dirty dishes and piles of washing.
Ask yourself Is it Aunty Bev’s Birthday when were away? Do I have enough prescription medication for my trip? (Always allow an extra 5-7days) Do the kids need a haircut? Do I need to re-schedule the Dentist?
Travel requirements
Is your passport valid? Dust it off and make sure it is valid for a minimum of 6mths from your departure date. If it expires a month after you leave, drop everything!! You absolutely need to allow a minimum 6 weeks to get your passport renewed, if not you can pay for priority passport processing www.passports.gov.au
Travel Insurance – if you cannot afford to get it, you cannot afford to travel!
As a Travel Agent of 35yrs this has always been my firm mantra. Read the fine print, and if you are doing anything slightly risky like skiing or diving make sure your policy covers it.
Do you need a Visa? This is a form of permission for a non-citizen to enter, transit or remain in a particular country. It is your responsibility to make sure you have the right visa.
https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/before-you-go/the-basics/visas
International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate Requirements now vary however I would keep a hard copy in your documentation regardless. You can access Medicare online, through your mygov.com.au account.
Leave copies of important documentation This can save a universe of pain if you lose your passport, I always email my trusty Dad copies of my travel insurance, itinerary etc.
Do not forget Travel adapter, chargers for phone, watch, camera
Luggage allowance if you are planning to return with more than you left with, you know you are! prepay extra allowance on the airline’s website, it is much cheaper.
Pre-book seating Do not risk getting trapped between snorers and enthusiastic chatterers in the middle row on a long-haul flight!
Download your airlines app allowing you to manage your booking at any time and receive alerts regarding delays or changes often before the airport has updated their gate signs.
Book refundable accommodation and fully flexible airfares You may need to outlay a little more, but it is worth the peace of mind and any unexpected surprises.If it all gets too overwhelming no need to worry, Extra Hands with Extra Love are here to help get you travel ready or keep things running whilst your away.