Crucial Things to do Before Going On a Vacation Abroad

Here are things that you should do before going off abroad for a vacation. I am actually doing this so that I could remind myself to prepare all of the things and not to leave anything behind. I would advise that you cross-check all of these steps 2 weeks prior to the departure day.

#1 Online/ Web Check-in

Most of us would probably travel on a plane so we might have to check in for our flight. I would recommend web check in because it saves the unnecessary time you would have to waste in queues at the airport. Whether you are travelling alone or in a group, with or without baggage – you can check in online from 23 hours  to 48 hours before departure. Best thing about web check in is, you get to choose where you would like to sit and you could print your boarding pass in less than 3 mins or if you are using a smartphone, just download it to your mobile.

#2 Passport & ID or Visa

Always remember to check your passport; make sure it it still valid for travel. Normally, your passport should be renewed before leaving the country if it expires within nine months, but most countries will not allow you entry if your passport expires within six months (I've been to Brunei Darussalam & Singapore), that's according to their international travel requirements. Considering the processing time needed, renew your passport as early as possible. For Malaysian, renewing passport only takes us 24 hours. You can collect your new passport a day after. 

 If your passport is clear, make sure that it has enough blank pages for VISA.Most destination, including Malaysia, it is advisable to have adequate unused pages in your passport. It is for the stamps or VISA attachment. upon arrival and departure.  Check if the respective Embassy or Websites for info regarding VISA ( if it is required for traveller -of your country).

#3 Your Hotel/Tour/Destination

Google up for info about your hotel, contact your travel agent regarding the tour (if any) and find out about reviews on the destination. Good thing now that we have the internet, you could check out reviews, wiki-ed trivia about the place and browsing through pictures from travel-blogs.


#4 Currency Rate

This is the tricky part, you have to have basic knowledge of arithmetic.haha.. I know it may sound silly...So yesterday I went to a Money Changer in town and exchanged my Malaysian Ringgit to both USD and Indonesian Rupiah. I have no problem with USD because the exchange rate is that 1USD = 3.20 Ringgit Malaysia. However, when it comes to Indonesian Rupiah; I had to reboot my counting skills as I am seeing lotsa 000000 in the notes. So I have a stack of 100,000.00!!!(in rupiah of course)...Kinda funny because wallet is bulging with hundred thousands notes! How I wish it is Ringgit Malaysia..haha...Now, check if other currencies are also accepted in the country you're going to. For Asian region, USD is mostly accepted during transactions but in Malaysia; you will have to have Ringgit Malaysia. 


#5 Arrangement to the Airport

Remember, how are you going to the airport on the day of departure. If your family member or housemate is driving you there; remember to remind them a day before. If you are calling a taxi.make sure that you have atleast 3 numbers( taxi drivers) to call ; well just in case.


#6 What to Bring in Your Bag

Travel light. Bring along basic things like your t-shirt,pants,undergarments; well, atleast for the 1st 2 days. I'm pretty sure you will buy something while on vacation. You can get the rest of the things there. If you are going to a colder country, remember to bring suitable clothing for that kind of weather. You might need an adapter for you phone, your laptop or I pad.

#7 Double Check

Cross check, double check with your travel companion (if you are not travelling alone). Make sure you have enough sleep the day before departure,Set your alarm clock and enjoy your trip!!I know I am...I'm off to Bali!! whoooho!!!

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