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5 Things to Do Before Travelling Overseas in 2022

5 Things to Do Before Travelling Overseas in 2022

5 Things to Do Before Travelling Overseas in 2022

Travel has changed a lot over the past two years and there are so many new things that you need to do.

Make sure that you are ready to travel and don't forget any of these FIVE things to do before travelling overseas. 

1. Check the expiry date on your passport

It may need to be dusted off as it probably hasn't been used in a while, but it is really important that you check your passport's expiry date.

Some countries require a minimum of six months validity remaining before they will allow you enter. Keep in mind that it can take up to 2 months to get a new passport, so if yours is looking to expire soon, renew ASAP! 

Passport Expiry 

2. Get your International Vaccination Certificate from Medicare & Other Docs

This is different to your usual vaccination certificate that you show for proof on a daily basis. It needs to be obtained from medicare (you can download a copy from the Medicare App (via My Gov) or you call/visit and request a copy. 

This is a comprehensive report of you vaccination status (all doses, dates etc) and is formally recognised across the world. 

When you check in, have the following ready:

If you're fully vaccinated

If you're not fully vaccinated but have an exemption

  • your proof of exemption 
  • your negative COVID-19 test results, if needed by your airline or destination

 

3. Link your International Vaccination Certificate to your Passport

For quicker times in customs/immigration, having a linked vaccination certificate and passport is advised. 

You can do this through Medicare (via My Gov) ...I have created an Instagram Reel Tutorial on how to do this. 

 

4. Make sure you have sufficient Travel Insurance (with Covid-19 cover)

I wrote about Covid -19 Cover Travel Insurance in my previous blog (read it here). It is so important that you choose travel insurance that covers both Covid and War given everything that is happening in the world at the moment. 

Covermore provides a range of comprehensive cover options and is my top choice of insurer. I usually purchase an annual policy that covers me both domestically and internationally for a full 12 months. 

It is important to note that most insurers will exclude war (declared or undeclared). The key here is whether the event was unforeseen or whether it was known at the time the policy was purchased. 

Covermore Insurance

5. Check the Covid-19 testing requirements for departing Australia, with your airline and at your destination

Requirements change on a daily basis and you should be keeping an eye on them via the relevant government (health) websites. You should also check Smart Traveller for any changes to border closures and whether it is safe to travel. 

 

RETURNING TO AUSTRALIA 

Returning to Australia

If you are returning to Australia check the entry and exit requirements for your transit locations and the state/territory you'll be arriving in. They may have changed while you were away.

Before you travel

  • Organise a COVID-19 test. A negative test result is mandatory for boarding a flight to Australia. Find out where to get tested from the local health authority, make sure to only use a verified testing centre.
  • Complete your Digital Passenger Declaration. You should do this within 72 hours of your flight.
  • Complete any entry declarations needed by the state or territory you're arriving in.
  • If you have to quarantine on arrival, read about how to prepare.

If you or someone in your travelling party test positive for COVID-19 before your flight, you won’t be able to board your plane.

Have the following ready when you check in:

If you're not fully vaccinated, you may face more difficulty finding a flight returning to Australia. Check with your airline for their vaccination policy. You may have to quarantine on arrival, at your own expense.