Back to LIVING IN AUSTRALIA
This is it, you’ve reached a decision: your next trip will be to Australia, whether you want to go as a tourist or to live there. And now, what? Where to begin? It is not that easy to think of every little detail when you go to an unknown land, especially when this land is so far away from home! This article is here to help you plan your trip to Australia, step by step.
Before departure: the administrative tasks
If you do not already have one, you need to get a passport. Don’t wait until the last minute: depending on your country, it can take a few weeks before you get your passport. Therefore, if you already own one, remember to check the date of expiry ahead of time (your passport should be valid at least until your date of return). We also recommend you to make a copy of the most important pages of your passport. These will help you in case your passport is lost or stolen in Australia, and copies may be necessary to accomplish administrative tasks such as opening a bank account or leasing an apartment.
Then you will have to book a flight. The sooner you buy your tickets, the cheaper they will be. However, the price also depends on the airline companies and on the dates of your trip. If you intend to stay in Australia for a long period, we suggest that you ask your airline company whether it is possible to let the date of your return undetermined.
Finally, it may be useful to get an international driving license. In some countries it is free, but in others you will have to pay for it.
Money money money : what to do with your bank
Ending up penniless in a foreign country would without a doubt be an unpleasant and stressful experience. That is why you cannot avoid a visit to your bank before your departure. First of all, if you are leaving for a long time, you should give power-of-attorney to someone you trust to deal with your bank account while you are away.
You should also ask your banker for information on withdrawals in Australia, and on your credit card limit. Do not forget your IDs to log on to your online account; they will enable you to check your account while abroad. Moreover, you should definitely take your credit card with you.
Prepare your absence
You do not only have to plan your trip : it is also important to get your things in order at home, especially if you are leaving for a long time. First of all, your friends and family should be able to contact you: at least give them the address of your first accommodation.
You may also want to give someone you trust important information such as your bank information, in case you have a problem. Likewise, for those who intend to stay away for a long time, we suggest you give a proxy to that person along with a power-of-attorney at your post office, because you will not be able to vote or pick up packages once you’re in Australia!
Lastly, make sure you cancel all your subscriptions (water, gas, electricity, magazines…) and your rent (beware of the notice!). Note that you may be able to suspend your mobile plan: find out about it before you terminate it.
What to put in your luggage
The last step is not the least since it is about not forgetting anything in your luggage… Don’t be too anxious : if something important is missing, you can always buy it in Australia. Besides, it is better to travel light, especially if you are a backpacker. Airline companies set a weight limit (20 kgs to 30 kgs).
The contact information of the place you will be staying at when you arrive, the address of the consulate or embassy, your IDs to access your bank account and your insurance information should be on you at all times when you travel. We recommend that you also bring copies of your important documents : passport, diplomas, health insurance certificate… You may choose to save them on a memory stick if you prefer. Moreover, do not forget to bring a tourist guide. It can be very useful when trying to get around.
Lastly, make sure you take sunhats, sunglasses and sunscreen cream in order to safely enjoy the Australia sunshine!