1 year to go

	Start saving.
	Collect information on your destination. Read Guide books, speak to returned travellers, surf the internet and attend a YHA Traveller's Information session.

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.
	Compare prices and services offered for airfares, Eurail/coach passes, organised tours and travel insurance.
	Book and confirm all flights and additional travel arrangements.

3 months to go

	Join YHA and take advantage of all the pre-departure discounts including up to 15% off travel insurance, up to 10% off Contiki and Eurail passes, 10% off Lonely Planet guides, 15% off vaccinations, 10-25% off travel and outdoor gear including backpacks, walking shoes, sleep sheets and loads more!
	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

	Make any final adjustments to travel bookings and pay for airfares, Eurail/coach passes, organised tours, travel insurance. 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 IBN network at www.hihostels.com
	Obtain an 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 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.
	Organise prescriptions from your doctor and visit the dentist.
	Leave a copy of your itinerary with your contact addresses for family and friends.

2 weeks to go

	Organise power of attorney.
	Buy a YHA phone card, which provides cheap rates to Australia from international destinations.
	Purchase travellers cheques and other currency. Record travellers cheques' serial numbers and keep a copy at home.

1 week to go

	Cancel power, paper, phone, re-direct mail.
	Reconfirm flight and departure times. Request special meals/seating.
	Find out what can't be brought back to Australia (352kb).

On the day

Ensure you have passport, ticket, credit card and travellers cheques.