You never know what trouble you may encounter on your journey to another country, so better be safe than sorry...
- Make absolutely sure that all your documentation is correct.
Remember, that many countries insist that you have two empty pages in your passport before they will let you enter. Check on this before you depart.
- Many countries demand that your passport is valid for another six months from the date of entry into that country, so see that your passport is not at the end of its life as you may be refused entry.
- Remember to take out an international driver's licence. You never know when you might be in a position to drive.
- Always have a credit card on you. To travel without a credit card is foolish. Make sure that there is enough money in your account so that you can buy a ticket to get out of a country should there be a problem. We're thinking wars here. A cash card is also essential as it enables you to draw small amounts of cash in a foreign country when you need it. Never travel with large sums of money.
- Travel and medical insurance is essential for everyone these days. Youngsters might think they will never get sick. It's a myth.
- If you are a young person travelling for the first time, it might be an idea to link up with a tour especially designed for youth travellers. There are several on the market. There's also a distinct advantage to travelling on a package tour in that prices are usually lower. If you're not keen on group touring, you can hive off and do your own thing when you arrive at a place
- If you are travelling with a backpack, make sure you buy the correct one for you. You are the one who is going to be lugging it around and it must fit comfortably. You do not want to purchase a pack that feels awkward. Try it in the store and ask that it be filled so that you can feel what it will be like when laden with your gear.
- Go the youth hostel route rather than camping. There are youth hostels throughout Africa and in virtually every country worldwide. Youth hostels are where you will meet other young people and make good friendships. They are also the places to gather useful information that will stand you in good stead.
- If a youth hostel has a lock-up facility, use it. And check that every flap on your backpack is locked.
- Take along a basic medicine kit that includes one broad-spectrum antibiotic. You never know when you might need it and going to a doctor in a foreign country can be expensive and inconvenient, especially if you are in the countryside.
- Don't take packages from other people unless you have seen what is inside. Drug smuggling is rampant and you must be vigilant at all times. In some countries, possession of narcotics means the death sentence at worst or a lengthy stay in gaol at best. Steer clear of all drugs.
- If you are female, travel with a friend because it is safer. Single woman travelling alone can land in terrible trouble. There are thousands of cases on file to verify this. You do not want to find yourself in a vulnerable position.
- Always look neat and clean when passing through border posts or flying in and out of a country. If you look respectable, chances are you will get through borders more easily.
- Always keep your passport and money on you. Unless you have a really safe lock-up place.
- Don't trust strangers you have just met. There are a lot of nice young people out there, but there are also plenty of scumbags on the prowl.
- Travelling by bus is or train is often a cheap and safer option to hitch-hiking.
- It used to be safe to hitch on South African roads - no longer. Don't even think about it.
- If you are travelling to a foreign country, make sure that you have the details of the South African embassy or consulate in that country written down. Carry it in an accessible place.
- When packing for your trip, discard half the things you want to take. You will need the minimum amount of clothing (unless going to a cold country in winter). Good waterproofs are essential.
- Get as much information as you can about your destination before you go. It's easy. Just go onto the Internet and type in a few key words.
- Finally, attractions between young people are natural. Should you get intimately involved, always use protection.