If you’re still at home getting ready for an incoming trip, pay attention to the following tips for a smooth-sailing and hassle-free Travel experience:

• Do not travel if your passport is about to expire
  If you are not careful about your passport expiry date, you may not be able to enter certain countries. Rule of thumb: your passport must not expire three months before you return from your trip. Renew your passport months ahead of your trip.
• Check your bank accounts or credit card providers
  List down the countries you will be visiting and let them know in advance if you need certificates, statements of account and other documents required to get a VISA for those countries. Note down your credit card details from the international toll free number to the pin code (just in case you need emergency cash).
• Book in advance
  If you intend to travel during peak season, you had to make your reservations weeks or months before your scheduled arrival. Doing this will help you keep your budget to a minimum. Have a clear idea of where you want to go. Choose a strategically located place where historical spots, restaurants, tourist destinations and help desks are within reach.
• Scan and photocopy your travel documents
  Since you never know what happens along the way, it’s best to stash backup copies of your important travel documents. You can present these copies to the appropriate institution in the event you lose the original ones.
• Purchase a travel insurance plan that matches your needs
  Different travellers have different travelling styles. Some travel once a year, some travel on a frequent basis. Others travel for a few days and there are those who stay at hotter climates to avoid the winter season. Travel insurance plans have been customized to match these varying travel habits. Pick a plan that suits your style.
• Get a letter of consent if you’re travelling with children
  Bringing kids during the trip requires a letter of consent from the appropriate government agency. When submitting the letter of consent, do not forget other important documents like papers for adopted children, passport for each children and their respective national IDs.
• Get a recommended travel guide
  Even if you have already crafted your itinerary, you can leave room for more adventure. Why not get a guidebook to show you the way? Surprise yourself and your companions by discovering new places. Appeal to your sense of adventure by consulting a travel guide.
• Visit your doctor before your travel date
  One of the reasons why many travellers were unable to raise a successful travel medical insurance claim after falling ill overseas is that they did not disclose information about recently diagnosed conditions or did not heed their doctor’s counsel. Always visit your doctor before travelling and follow their advice.
• Install security features to keep your home safe
  Besides informing your trusted neighbors to watch after your home while you spend your time elsewhere, you can also install security features like automatic light controls and CCTV cameras. Automated lighting can fool robbers into thinking that you’re still at home even if you are not.

Just take these tips to heart and you will have less to worry about during your trip.