You've made all your bookings and had your passport renewed. But it doesn't end there. Go by our checklist of travel essentials to ensure you've got everything you'll need.



Before departure, organise easy ways to access your money overseas, such as credit cards, travellers' cheques and cash.

Check with your bank whether your ATM card will work overseas.

Remember to make two photocopies of your passport, tickets, visas and travellers' cheques. Keep one with you, and leave another with someone at home.

Take out a comprehensive travel insurance that will cover overseas medical costs.

Activate global roaming on your mobile phone, but remember you'll be slapped with a pretty intense bill on your return.

If you have to carry documents, passport and valuables, keep it in a money belt. Never leave your bags unattended or with strangers.

Never carry anything in or out of another country for someone else and never accept to take care of others' luggage.

While overseas, try to comply with local dress codes and be aware of cultural sensitivities.

Do not entertain visitors in your hotel room. Try to meet them in the lobby. Don't accept an invitation to go out with a stranger alone.