• Your passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date. Make sure you check the expiry date well before you depart.
• Visas could be required for the country you’re visiting, so make sure you have researched and applied for getting the right visa. For more information, visit Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Destination Research with Smartraveller;

• Situations can change quickly before you depart so make sure you check the Smart Traveller website and stay informed. It’s recommended to register your travel plans so it makes it easier to contact you in an emergency.

Travel Insurance

• Travel insurance has long been considered a holiday essential to help protect you from the unexpected when you’re away from home.

• If you’ll be driving in another country, it’s always a good idea to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) before you head off. An IDP is a translation of your valid Australian drivers licence which carries your identification details in nine languages (English, Spanish, Japanese, Greek, German, Arabic, Russian, Chinese, French) which can be useful in case you need to communicate with foreign authorities. Some rental car companies will require you have an IDP before allowing you to hire a vehicle from them. IDPs are valid for 12 months from the date of issue and are a handy form of photo ID whilst travelling. If you're unsure whether the country you're travelling to requires an IDP you can check your destination here.
• RACQ is the authorised IDP sales agent in Queensland as appointed by the Australian Automobile Association (AAA). The AAA is the only authorised distributor of International Driving Permits in Australia for Australian Drivers Licence holders. Click here to find out more.

• If you plan to rent a car overseas, it’s a good idea to book your rental car in advance. Don’t forget to check for any specific requirements or restrictions for international drivers in the country you’ll be visiting, such as minimum driver age.
• RACQ Members can save on car hire, click here to find out more

• Ask your doctor which vaccinations and other precautions are required or recommended before you travel. You should also check any prescriptive medicine you are travelling with is allowed in your destination.
• A medical certificate from your doctor outlining your medications would come in handy when in emergency situations.
• Pack a basic first aid kit with the essentials you may need in your trip. For example, carrying bandages, antiseptic wipes for treating blisters if you’ll be hiking.

• Every country you visit will have different rules, customs and cultures. Make sure to research and familiarise yourself with the regulations before you go.
• Be aware of any specific laws related to alcohol, drugs, dress code, photography or public behaviours in different countries.

• We recommend you make photocopies or digital scans of important travel documents such as your passports, visa, insurance policy and itinerary.
• Remember to leave copies of any travel documents with family or friends back home.
• Take a list of emergency reference numbers with you, including phone numbers, credit card contacts, and any international calling numbers.

• You can also travel with a second bank card linked to a separate bank account in case of loss, theft, or cancellation of your primary card. Make sure you check with your bank on international money transfers or any travel services before you go. 
• Buying an appropriate power adapter in Australia will save you from inconvenience when you’re in different countries. It’s also a good idea to think about how many items you may need to charge at a time. Select a suitable adapter with multiple ports if you need.