Travelling internationally can be a hassle if you don’t know what to do. Here is a basic guide on how to go about travelling on your own:
1. Double Up on Documents:
Picture this – you’re in a foreign country and you lose your passport. Nightmare, right? To avoid this, always keep photocopies and digital copies of your passport, ID, travel insurance, and other important documents. It’s like having a backup plan for your backup plan!
2. Immigration – The Gateway:
Immigration can feel like a game of 20 questions. Just remember, honesty is the best policy. Present your passport and visa, answer the officer’s questions truthfully, and you’ll be through in no time.
3. Visa – Your Golden Ticket:
Not sure if you need a visa? Check out the Indian Ministry of External Affairs website. It’s your one-stop-shop for all Visa-related queries. Just to clarify there is a difference between Temporary Residence and Visa in some countries. Having Temporary Residence means you have permission to live in that country and does not guarantee you a Visa. A Visa is permission to Study or Work in that country. So make sure you have documents from your College/School or Workplace before you apply for a Visa. Carry these documents with you during your travel and make sure you have backups.
A Tourist Visa also gives you access to a country but residence is not allowed you have to report at immigration the duration of your stay and which hotel or relatives’ or Airbnb you might be staying at during your visit. This Visa is obviously shorter than Temporary Residence usually 6 months to a year.
4. Stay Alert with Travel Advisories:
The Indian government occasionally issues travel advisories. Some alerts can be warnings like a flood or similar weather phenomenon others can be something serious like the Pandemic.
These institutes are like your friendly neighborhood watch, keeping you informed about any potential risks in certain countries. You can find these advisories on the Ministry of External Affairs website.
5. Tickets – Your Travel Timeline:
Always double-check your tickets. Make sure you’ve got the departure time right (AM or PM – they’re easy to mix up!) and check for any layovers. Remember, some countries require a transit visa even for layovers.
6. Past Records – A Speed Bump, Not a Roadblock:
Got a past record that might cause issues at immigration? Don’t sweat it. An immigration lawyer can help you get the necessary documents to smooth your way. However, the nature of your past still determines your ability to travel. If you have a violent crime in you records or a even a driving under influence record you may not be allowed entry to certain countries. Check these laws well in advance.
7. Baggage Check – Keep It Legal:
Every country has its own rules about what you can bring in. For instance, poppy seeds are a no-go in the UAE and some other countries, even though they are used an ingredient in Indian food. So, do a quick check of your baggage before you travel.
Baggage weight is also important. Don’t pack stuff you don’t need. If you are packing medicines keep a prescription. Keep your documents in your carry on with you and not in your check-in baggage. Do not keep perishables in your bag. Check this list of items that are allowed and not allowed to take on a flight here.
One more thing that is crucial when travelling. Never handle someone else’s luggage. If someone has told you to keep an eye on their bags while they go to the loo do not touch their bags at any cost. If they don’t return in 15 minutes walk away.
The rule applies to you too. Pack your own bags and do not let anyone else pack your bags. Do not let anyone else especially strangers or unauthorized personnel handle your bags. Do not leave your bags in the care of strangers to go to the loo. Best tip travel light you really don’t need that extra pair of clothes you can buy new ones where you land.
8. Stay Sober, Stay Aware:
Traveling is fun, but remember to stay sober and aware of your surroundings. It’s like being the designated driver, but for your own journey. Even on flight avoid getting drunk as its easier at that altitude to get drunk with very little alcohol.
9. Cash is King:
Remember to carry cash and don’t stash it all in one place. Keep some with yourself some in your carry on. Never put cash in your check-in luggage. There is a tendency of it getting checked during the loading process and your cash can potentially get stolen without a trace of who might have stolen it. The legal international limit is $10000 but you don’t need that much. Check local currency conversion rates and other expenses you may need to cover and stash your cash accordingly. Also carry cards just in case.
10. Trust your Phone:
This is a little bit of an obvious thing but I will say it anyway. Make sure you have an international plan on your Phone. You may not be able to get a local phone number until you have an address in that country and they still require you to provide a contact for emergencies. Having internet is a lifesaver in this day and age. It helps you navigate new locations, contact loved ones and share pictures with them. Keep your phone charged and your data packs up to date. You ever find yourself in trouble this is what will get you out of it.
11. Know where to go:
After you land its not the end of the journey. Research all cabs and local public transport before you even reach the country. You must have an idea of the costs and if in doubt use local ride share apps. Make sure you have the right address with you and keep it on your person at all times. If you are unable to speak the local language no need to panic use the translate feature on Google.
12. Know the Local Law:
Some people travel for pleasure and some travel for business. Both cases need a certain awareness of the local laws. If you choose to get a rental car you need to be of age to drive and rent a car. You need to know the local traffic laws as well. If you plan to drink in that country know the legal age limit there and whether pubs will serve you alcohol. Certain places are strict about jaywalking and some are not. So best be aware of little things like that to have a tension free travel.
Conclusion :
Travel documents are like the keys to your journey. Keep them safe, keep them secure, and you’ll unlock a world of travel experiences. Stay aware of your situation and don’t trust strangers blindly. Keep yourself out of trouble by knowing your location, having a source of communication and knowing the local laws. Remember, with great travel comes great responsibility!
We hope you found this post helpful and we’d love to hear from you! If you have any comments, suggestions, or feedback, please feel free to share them below. Your input is invaluable to us and helps us improve our content. Also, if there’s a new topic you’re interested in or you’d like us to explore further, don’t hesitate to let us know. And if you enjoyed this article, please like, share, and subscribe for more updates. Your support means the world to us!
Let's hear it!