Holidays should be relaxing, but things don’t always go to plan.
It only takes a quick skim through the news to hear about some horror story of an overseas traveller caught in an horrific accident.
While some of these can be avoided – wear helmets when motorcycling in Bali everybody – sometimes it’s just bad luck of the old-fashioned kind.
However, there is a government resource that can take some of the risk out of planning and enjoying a holiday.
Smartraveller.gov.au is the Australian government website helping Aussies planning to travel or already travelling overseas.
It provides information for travellers to make informed choices about their destination and be more confident managing their safety and security while they’re away.
General travel advice
Smartraveller provides general information on passports, visas, travel insurance and advice for specific travellers. You’ll find:
- a travel checklist
- advice for people about colour, race, ethnicity or religion
- tips for solo travellers on managing health and safety
- advice on travelling with children
- advice on what to expect when you return to Australia
- visa advice
- laws around dual nationalities
- advice on driving overseas.
Destination specific advice
Smartraveller has detailed travel advice for more than 175 destinations, this includes important information on the destination’s risks, local laws and customs. There is also a handy guide explaining travel advice levels.
There is also advice on health concerns such as outbreaks of disease in overseas countries and travel advice for special events such as the Olympics.
Consular contact information
If the worst does happen, Smartraveller has contact information and links to Australian consular services overseas. Visit here for more information.
Advice for crises and emergencies
Smartraveller also has guidance for Australians travelling overseas on what to do in a crisis or emergency. This includes being the victim of theft, assault or sexual assault, being arrested or needing medical care.
Smartraveller has advice what to do, where to get help, and, if needed, how to register with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade during a crisis.
It also outlines what the government can and cannot do for you while overseas.
Staying up to date
You can stay informed with the latest news and travel advice by subscribing to Smartraveller email updates. You can choose to subscribe to specific destinations or receive a general update.
Have you ever checked the Smartraveller website? Was it useful? Why not share your experience in the comments section below?
Also read: Where do we love to travel?
