What you need to know before you go

Last Updated

Tuesday, 21/03/2023

Learn about your destination

Read our travel advice for your destination. We’ll tell you the key risks and advise you how to stay safe. Learn what each advice level means in our travel advisories.
Subscribe to our travel advice and we’ll update you when things change. Also follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Familiarise yourself with COVID-19 entry and exit rules in your destination.
Research the local laws of the countries you plan to visit. If you're a dual national, check if this will have any implications for your trip.

Confirm your passport is valid for at least 6 months from when you think your trip will end.
Get the right visa for countries you’re visiting or transiting through. Smartraveller can’t help you with visas. Visa conditions change regularly so check the Embassy of the destinations you’ll visit before every trip.
Get comprehensive travel insurance to cover you and your belongings. Check the fine print - get insurance that’s right for you and covers your activities in the places you’ll go. Remember, regardless of how healthy and fit you are, if you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel.
Get an international COVID-19 vaccination certificate.
Check if extra documents are needed if you’re travelling with children.
If you’ll drive overseas check out the local traffic laws and practices. You’re likely to need an International Driving Permit (IDP) as well as your Australian driver’s licence.

Consider if you’re physically and mentally healthy enough for travel. Get advice from your doctor if you’re unsure.
See your doctor or travel clinic at least 8 weeks before you go for a basic health check. Get the vaccinations needed for the places you’ll go.
Check if your medication is legal and available in the places you’re going. Take enough of your prescribed medicines to last the whole trip. Carry copies of your prescription and a letter from your doctor.

Tell your bank you’re travelling and check if your cards will work. Have several payment options. Check how much local and foreign currency you can bring into your destination.
Share your itinerary with friends or family members. Give them copies of your passport and visa.
Give a trusted contact copies of your passport and visa, key documents such as prescriptions, your insurance policy and documents for travelling with children.

Know what to do if there’s a crisis where you are overseas.
Keep a list of contacts in case you need assistance.
Read the Consular Service Charter to understand how we can help Australians overseas.