Travel Tips
IMPORTANT INFORMATION AND TRAVEL TIPS
Travelling can be quite daunting especially for first time and international travellers. The airlines and countries are changing requirements and regulations on a daily basis so we have put a list together of information and some handy tips that might help make your journey a little less stressful and a tiny bit more enjoyable.
WHEN SHOULD I CHECK IN
You don’t want to add extra stress to your journey, so allow adequate time for checking in and passport control. The general rule for check in times is 1 hour for domestic flights and 2 hours for international flights. However, most international airlines open check in from 3 hours before departure. Try check in as early as possible to avoid queues and delays that could result in you missing your flight. The idea is to be calm and relaxed when travelling, especially when you are departing from a foreign country. Checking in early also gives you the time to do some duty free shopping before boarding the plane
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
There is one golden rule when it comes to your travel documentation – MAKE COPIES. We suggest having at least 3 copies of all your vital travel documentation (and get them certified if possible) such as passport, air tickets etc. to avoid being stranded if your belongings go missing while overseas. Keep one set with you, leave one in your luggage and leave the last one with a friend or family member at home who can fax them to you if you run into trouble while travelling. It is also advisable to leave a copy of your itinerary and contact details with family or friends at home so that they have a way of contacting you in the case of an emergency.
DO I NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE
The short answer is YES – never travel without adequate travel insurance. The free cover that you may receive when you purchase your air ticket by credit card is generally quite limited and may not be enough if you really had to use it. There is additional cover you can take at very competitive rates. It is better to be safe than sorry!
WHAT SHOULD I PACK
We always pack too much when travelling. The idea is to travel as light as possible. The general rule is to take everything you want to pack and then only pack half of it. Remember, the more you pack, the more you have to carry. Roll your clothing when packing – you will be surprised at how much more you can fit in. Keep in mind that you need to leave some space in your bag for shopping and gifts aswell. Do not take unnecessary valuables and jewellery. If you have to carry medicine, get a doctor’s note in case you are stopped by customs or loose your medication and need a replacement.
What you cannot take on board ( LAGS )
Terrorist activity has changed flying forever. In June 2007, The International Civil Aviation Organisation put new rules in place restricting the amount of liquids, aerosols and gels that passengers may take on board International flights, to prevent against the threat of liquid explosives. To double check that you comply with these new rules and to avoid any problems or embarrassment at the airport, please click on this link to get all your questions regarding the new LAG rules answered – http://www.acsa.co.za
http://www.acsa.co.za/home.asp?pid=661
HEALTH
Vaccinations
When travelling to more exotic destinations, enquire whether any specific vaccinations etc. are required. Have these done in good time remembering vaccinations like Yellow Fever have to be done at least 10 days before departure
Camera and Video Equipment
When travelling overseas, declare all camera equipment with customs officials at the airport before departing so you don’t have to prove ownership upon return. Consider bringing copies of receipts for cameras and other photo equipment. We suggest try taking your digital camera with you on the plane to help ensure it won’t be damaged. Airlines have rules about carry-on baggage; this rule varies from airline to airline, so always check your airline’s rules regarding checked baggage before you fly with your digital camera. The equipment you will require in addition to your camera are batteries, a charger, and enough memory cards to get the images you want without worrying about memory card space.
FOREIGN EXCHANGE
- Travellers Cheques
Travellers cheques is a very safe way of taking your foreign exchange for your trip. They are refundable if lost, they never expire, they are available in different currencies and denominations and there is no commission charged if cashed at a representative office.
- Credit Cards
To use your ATM credit cards with cash advance you will need a PIN number, ensure that you get this activated by your bank. It’s a good idea however, to check before you go whether credit cards are accepted at your destination. Don’t find yourself stranded!
- Cash
It’s often helpful to buy small amounts of foreign currency before departure for phones, buses or a taxi. The exchange rate might not be so good – but it saves a lot of hassles when you arrive.
WHERE ARE YOU GOING?
Before you go on holiday, do some research on your holiday destination. It will be beneficial to find out stuff like things to do and attractions, tours, restaurant info, visa info, airport info, currency info etc. Having all this information before hand will enable you to start your holiday immediately instead of wasting time scouting around once you get there.
SAFETY TIPS
Avoid walking around with a camera around your neck or standing on street corners looking at maps. This screams “tourist” to any unsavoury elements who may wish to take advantage of you. Do not leave your luggage unattended in public areas. Do not accept packages from strangers. To avoid being a target of crime, try not to wear expensive jewellery or carry excessive amounts of money or unnecessary credit cards on your person. In order to avoid violating local laws, deal only with authorized agents when you exchange money or purchase art or antiques.
LANGUAGE
Make an effort to learn the basic greetings etc. of the local language and use them when interacting with the local people. They genuinely appreciate the effort and courtesy and you will generally be treated with even greater friendliness.
CONVERTING BACK TO RANDS
Never make the mistake of constantly converting expenses back into Rands – it will only make your holiday a miserable marathon, rather than the holiday of your dreams. Positive attitude is everything.
COMMUNICATION WHILST ABROAD
Making phone calls from hotels abroad can be astronomical, a good idea is to set up an e-mail account which will allow you to communication by e-mail to all family and friends at an internet café. Most hotels also offer e-mail facilities. When abroad you can also buy a SIM card for that country and then buy pay as you go airtime. World traveller call cards can be purchased locally or abroad and can offer longer talk time.
INTERNATIONAL PLUGS
Remember to take an international plug adaptor for the countries that you are travelling to so that you are able to charge your cell phone, camera batteries, laptop etc.
DEPARTURE TAXES
Don’t forget some countries have a departure tax which is payable in cash when you leave that country. Make sure you’ve got enough local currency to pay it.
CUSTOMS & LOCAL LAWS
Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs of the countries to which you are travelling.
HOW TO PREVENT JETLAG
Although jet lag differs from person to person, most people flying through time zones will have to overcome jet lag. Make sure that you leave home well rested. When you fly ensure that you drink plenty of liquids, eat lightly, and rest! Avoid coffee & alcohol. Try to get at least two or three hours’ sleep during the flight. Very importantly reset your mind to local time. When the pilot announces the local time for your destination, reset your mind along with your wristwatch. Don’t prolong jet lag by reminding yourself what the time is back home. On arrival, stay awake until an early local bedtime.
USEFUL LINKS
ACSA Flight information – Tel: 086 727-7888