By Kim Wildman
MSN NZ Travel writer
After years of planning and saving, you're finally about to take your first adventure out into the wild and wonderful world. You've read every travel article you can get your hands on and your excitement is building at the mere thought of holding that ticket in your hand. But there are a few things you should know before you take off...
Research, research, research
When it comes to travelling, the top tip that any experienced traveller will give you is to do your homework. It is important that you do as much research as possible before you leave, making sure you check out everything from the climate and visa requirements to local events and accommodation. A great place to get started is on websites such as Trip Advisor and Lonely Planet's Thorn Tree where you can get advice from other travellers.
Get insurance
While travelling overseas is an exciting prospect, things can sometimes go wrong and without warning you could find yourself faced with an emergency. To help combat the unforseen, always take out travel insurance. Make sure the policy covers hospital treatment, medical evacuation and any activities, including adventure sports, in which you plan to participate. See the Insurance Council of New Zealand for more details.
Protect your health
The last thing you want on your holiday is to get sick, so make sure you visit your GP at least eight weeks before travelling overseas. They'll be able to provide you with the most up-to-date information on vaccinations and other precautions needed for the places you'll be visiting, such as taking anti-malaria medication,.
Passports and visas
If you are travelling overseas, you'll require a valid passport. For some countries, your passport will need to be valid for at least six months after your intended return date. Be sure to check if you require visas for the country or countries you are visiting or transiting through. More information about passports can be found at: www.passports.govt.nz
Make copies
Have photocopies of all important documents (tickets, passport, visas, travel insurance, driving licence, etc) and make sure they are kept separate from the originals. If you are travelling with a friend, you could exchange photocopies to minimise the chance of losing all documentation.
Foreign currency
The most important rule when it comes to money is not to rely on a single form of currency — take a credit card, some cash and perhaps some travellers cheques. Make sure you have enough money to cover emergencies and, whatever you do, don't keep all your money in the one place.
Advise family and friends of travel details
When you're travelling, it is vital to have a few regular contacts who can keep tabs on you. Leave a general itinerary behind with family and friends and send regular e-mail so that people at home know where you are.
Register with the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT)
Before travelling overseas, register your plans and contact details online with MFAT or at the local New Zealand embassy, high commission or consulate once you arrive, so you can be contacted in an emergency. For more details, visit: www.mfat.govt.nz
Respect local customs and laws
Some countries, especially in the Middle East and Asia, dress more conservatively than we do here in New Zealand, so ensure you pack appropriate clothing for the places you are visiting. Bear in mind that being a New Zealand citizen does not entitle you to any special treatment and consular assistance cannot override local laws, even where local laws appear harsh or unjust by New Zealand standards.
