The basics

Before you go

Read our travel advice. We’ll tell you the key risks and advise you how to stay safe.
Subscribe to our travel advice and we’ll update you when things change. Also follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
Confirm your passport is valid for 6 months from when you think your trip will end. Don’t get stranded.
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 countries you’ll visit before every trip.
Check if extra documents are needed if you’re travelling with children.
Get comprehensive travel insurance to cover you and your gear. 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.
Consider your physical and mental health. Get advice from your doctor if you’re unsure.
Have a health check-up and get vaccinated. See your doctor or travel clinic 8 weeks before you go for a basic health check and to get 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.
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.
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.
Share your itinerary with friends or family members. Give them copies of your passport and visa. Share copies of 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 more

See what each advice level means in travel advisories
See our advice on how to take care of your health.
Learn about staying safe and avoiding danger.
Read about staying within the law, so you can avoid being arrested or jailed.
See our advice for the activities you plan to do.
Know more about getting around in your destination
Download the checklist to ensure you are ready for your travels
Read the Consular Service Charter to understand how we can help Australians overseas.

See also

Find your destination's embassy or consulate in Australia for visa information.
Learn about International Driving Permits (IDPs).
Visit Scamwatch (ACCC) to learn how to recognise, avoid and report scams.