Overseas travel is something that we all look forward to. Visiting a new place can be really exciting. However, travelling abroad comes with its share of pitfalls. But the good news is that you can ensure that your foreign holiday is fun-filled and tension-free by following a few pointers.

Remember to keep these points in mind while planning your destination:

• The first step would involve doing an in-depth research on the destination you intend to travel to.
• Ensure you find out about the weather and start packing accordingly.
• Make sure you have all the necessary documents required for visiting the place.
• Find out which diseases are prevalent, take the necessary precautions and get the right vaccination if necessary.
• Check if your trip coincides with any local festivals.
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Keep these pointers in mind when packing:

Depending on where and what time of the year you intend to travel, you need to make arrangements and pack. One of the best ways to enjoy an international trip is to pack light. A common mistake made by most people is to over-pack. This results not only in extra costs, but also in having to lug around more weight. If you are travelling for business, make sure you plan your wardrobe in advance. Another useful tip would be to purchase your toiletries upon reaching your destination, thus enabling you to save space.

Remember to keep these general tips in mind before travelling abroad:

Safeguard your documents

Make sure your passport and visa are safe. Also take a couple of photocopies of your passport and visa and keep them safely in your baggage. Scanning your documents and saving them online is a good practice.

Keep an eye on the exchange rates

While you would love to shop abroad using your credit card, it is a good idea to call your credit card company before you set off on your trip and check if they charge extra fees for international charges.

Also, remember to keep an eye for better exchange rates at border crossings and embassies.

Inform your credit card company about your travel plans

Using your credit card in a foreign country might arouse the suspicions of your credit card company who might suspect that your account is stolen and might freeze it.

Ensure you pack your luggage carefully

Make sure you keep your identification documents, boarding passes, passport, etc with you. Also keep your jewellery, cash / traveller’s cheques, a spare set of clothes and medication in your hand baggage.

Do remember to keep the above tips in mind when you plan to travel abroad and be assured of a safe, fun-filled and memorable trip.

The author is a frequent flyer with International flights with International Airlines such as Cathay Pacific and wants to share his tips with the fellow travellers.