The ultimate getaway checklist
Jetting off soon? Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or preparing for your first family flight to Australia, staying prepared is the travel hack everyone can get on board with. We’ve put together the ultimate checklist to help you travel with confidence, filled with tips on everything from booking your airport transfer to remembering the one special toy no one can sleep without.
1. Tickets, visas and passports
So, you’ve found the perfect poolside hotel and snapped up a great deal on flights. Before you pack your first suitcase, double-check your travel documents are in order and that you meet all the requirements to board stress-free.
Passport: Make sure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your return date.
Visas, ESTAs and eTAs: Check whether you need any travel authorisations in advance to breeze through border control.
Go digital: Check in for flights, hotels and car rentals ahead of time.
Travel insurance: Protect your loved ones and your possessions with a good policy that has your back.
Health documentation: Check if your destination needs any vaccinations or health certificates.
2. Money matters
Before you find your gate, make sure your finances are travel-ready too. There’s nothing worse than spending valuable swimming and tanning time on the phone with the bank.
Bank notification: Let your bank know you’re going abroad to avoid any surprise blocks.
Local currency: In destinations where cash is king, it’s smart to carry some local money - just in case the card machine’s having a moment.
Backup cards: Keep a spare card somewhere separate and save the details on your phone for easy access. You’ll thank yourself later.
3. Health & safety essentials
It’s not the most glamorous part of the journey, but it is important.
Prescription medications: Pack enough for the entire trip and keep them in the original packaging.
Mini first-aid kit: Painkillers, plasters, antiseptic - and anything else you might need to be the hero in any situation.
Hand sanitiser: Keep germs at bay, especially in crowded places and on flights.
Sunscreen: Always protect your skin, especially at sunny destinations.
4. Baggage essentials
Ensure you’ve packed the perfect suitcase to avoid paying for an overweight bag or realising you have no space for all the outfits you planned to wear.
Baggage allowance: Double-check what’s allowed in your suitcase with your airline to ensure your suitcase is the right size and doesn’t weigh more than it should.
Cabin bag must-haves: Pack essentials like headphones, chargers, refillable water bottles, snacks, and a good book.
Clothing: Use packing cubes or roll clothes to save space.
5. Home preparations
Get your home ready for lock-up and go.
Security check: Lock up, unplug and make sure everything’s safe and sound.
Pets and plants: Ensure your fur-babies are in good hands and your plants are watered by a friend or neighbour.
Out-of-office: Set up that auto-reply out-of-office message and switch off.
Spare key: Leave a key with someone you trust, just in case.
On your marks. Jet-set. GO!
With everything ticked off, you’re officially ready for take-off. Now it’s time to start your trip on a relaxing note, in the comfort of the lounge with Priority Pass.