SAFE TRAVEL
We've already mentioned Safe Travel before, but it is still one of the top tips for Kiwis travelling overseas for advisories, general information and their itinerary registration service.
AIRPORT
For those for whom it has been a while since they travelled, there is no longer a Departure Tax payable at the airport. This has been levied onto the airlines (who undoubtedly add it into their fares to you!).
Luggage trolleys are free to use in the terminal.
WINZ
Contact Work & Income New Zealand (WINZ) if you or someone in your family are receiving any form of benefit or allowance before travelling overseas.
INSURANCE
Take out travel insurance when (or before) you book your tickets. You don't necessarily need to get it through a travel agent either - you can use any broker or insurance agent. Shop around!
If you have left a house, possessions or a vehicle behind, make sure the insurance payments continue for those in your absence. [NB your home may need continued use of electricity to power your burglar alarm.]
CARRY-ON LIQUIDS
Remember that you may only have liquids to the volume of 100ml each in your carry on, that must fit into a 1l plastic bag (or 20cm x 20cm). You will find the definition of liquids quite broad. Everything else should go in your checked-in baggage. This also means water bottles or containers. You must empty them prior to customs clearance and may re-fill them after that.
Totally prohibited items are listed on the Aviation Security website.
MEDICATION
If you have prescriptions, keep them in their original containers; and have a letter from your doctor listing their names and current dosage.
MONEY
Decide how you are going to spend your money.
- Cash
- Credit card
- ATM (debit) card
- Money transfer
- Prepaid money wallet (like a pre-loaded credit card)
- Travellers cheques
- New bank account in the country you are travelling to
Each will have particular rules and fees which makes comparing one option to the next less than simple. Consider leaving some money in a NZ bank account for ongoing payments and emergencies.
Inform your credit card company of your impending departure and which countries you will visit. That way you don't have a transaction declined as it is out of your usual spending habits.
TELECOMMUNICATIONS
How are you going to keep in touch with family, friends, colleagues or clients?
See whether you can take you cellular phone with you overseas and what it may cost to continue your NZ plan; or whether it is compatible with the country cellular network where you are going so you can pick up a new SIM there.
Do you need to take a calling card from NZ or buy one overseas?
Will you email folks or update a social media account instead?
IDP
Do you need an International Drivers Permit? If so, then visit the Automobile Association for the forms to fill in, and where you can lodge your payment for this service. It will be sent to you via post. [There is an extra charge for processing an IDP application online or via posting it in.]
WILLS
Are your wills up to date? Do you need to leave someone a Power of Attorney over all or part of your affairs?