Safe passage
COVER YOUR BASES WHILE ON HOLIDAY
You’re planning a wonderful overseas holiday and while you like organising the schedule, you’re not so sure on the necessary paperwork. What documents are essential? The first thing to attend to is your passport. If you don’t have one, you need one. Information on obtaining one is on the Department of Internal Affairs website. If you already have one, check how long it’s valid for. This is really important. Many countries require a passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your intended visit. So attend to this before anything else. Also, take a photocopy of your passport in case you lose it or it’s stolen. Keep a copy on you and leave a copy at home with family or a friend. Another idea is to take photos of it on your phone too, so you have your details at hand should you need to apply for another while overseas. Check visa requirements for each country you’re travelling to, including electronic travel authorities (ETAs). Make sure you have at least one clear page in your passport for immigration stamps. Check if any vaccinations are needed for countries you’re travelling to. If you take medication, ask your GP for a letter stating the meds you are travelling with. It’s confirmation they are legit drugs. And, again essential, get travel insurance.
Why is travel insurance so important? It’s not cheap but as they say, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. Your policy should cover medical treatment, emergency medical evacuation, personal liability and any activities that carry the slightest risk, such as snorkelling or scooter riding. As with all insurance, be open about any pre-existing conditions. Consumer NZ has a very good travel insurance guide or you can visit the Insurance Council of New Zealand website and click on Travel Insurance. If you are a senior, you may have issues in some countries with serious pre-existing health conditions. You may have to avoid these countries altogether or take an informed, calculated risk, considering your condition, current health and how long you intend to be in the country. The USA is strict about the health of those entering its borders. So, sort out your travel insurance and visas prior to paying for any air tickets.