1 year to go

	Start saving.
	Research your trip. Read Guide books, speak to returned travellers, surf the internet.
	Attend a YHA Traveller's Information Night or Travel Expo talk.

6 months to go

	Research your options for working overseas. Prepare resumes and copies of documents you may need, e.g. curriculum vitae, birth certificate.
	Apply for an Australian passport.
	Join YHA and take advantage of all the pre-departure discounts including up to 25% off travel insurance, up to 10% off Contiki and Eurail passes, 10% off Lonely Planet guides, 10-25% off travel and outdoor gear including backpacks, walking shoes, sleep sheets and loads more!.
	See YHA Travel to book your airfares, transport, tours and buy insurance.
	Book and confirm all flights and additional travel arrangements.

3 months to go

	Check the visa requirements for the countries you are planning to visit.
	Contact the embassies direct.
	Organise credit/debit cards.
	Purchase your luggage and clothing.
	Make an appointment with a travel health specialist to get the required vaccinations, medication, medical kit and vaccination card.

2 months to go

	Finalise all your travel dates and arrangements. Make sure all your tickets agree with your itinerary, all coupons are intact, departure and arrival times are compatible with any connecting flights/transfers. Remember, YHA Membership and Travel can arrange all your travel needs.
	Pre-book your accommodation around the world through the international booking network at www.hihostels.com
	Get your international drivers permit.

1 month to go

	Set up a worldwide email account and send your address to friends and family.
	Make photocopies of your documents, tickets, credit card details birth certificate, airline tickets, travel insurance documents and credit cards. Leave a set of copies with someone at home, and take a copy with you but keep them separate from the originals while you are travelling.
	Duty free shopping.
	See your dentist and doctor – don’t forget prescriptions
	Leave a copy of your itinerary with your contact addresses for family and friends.

2 weeks to go

	Organise your will.
	Organise your money – exchange some cash and get some traveller’s cheques or foreign currency cash card. Record travellers cheques' serial numbers and keep a copy at home.

1 week to go

	Cancel power, paper, phone, re-direct mail.
	Pack your bags.
	Find out what can't be brought back to Australia.

On the day

	Check you have all your travel documents – passport, ticket, credit card, foreign currency.
	Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
	Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight is due to depart.