The 5 most important tips before setting off on a world tour
Who hasn't dreamed of leaving everything behind and setting off around the world? If you can afford it, it's an exciting adventure that should be experienced at least once in your life. But before you head off to the other side of the world, you need to prepare for it.
Here are five important tips to follow before embarking on this superb adventure.
1. Set a realistic budget for your round-the-world trip
Unless you have unlimited resources or are working during your trip, it's important to estimate how much you can put into your round-the-world adventure. Don't plan too small, or you'll be depriving yourself and not getting the most out of this unique experience, but don't think too big, as you'll need to think about the savings you'll need when you return to 'normal' life.
Calculate an average budget for transport, accommodation, food and activities, with a margin for the unexpected.
A little tip for when you're travelling: use an expense-tracking application that offers several currencies, so you can insert everything you pay for, making it much easier to keep track of and stick to your budget. Check in every 2-3 months to make sure you don't run out of money before the trip is over.
2. Plan your round-the-world itinerary
Don't make a detailed plan for every day, of course. The idea is to know the main ports of call, so you can plan your flights, for example. The advantage of a round-the-world trip is that you can easily change your mind and decide to extend your stay somewhere, or skip a stopover.
If you're going with several people, the choice can be difficult, depending on each person's wishes. Make a list for each person and then compare your wishes. Once you've come up with your top destinations, go online to sites that indicate the best time to travel to a particular destination. Then choose the ideal itinerary for your round-the-world trip, based on the seasons and connections between countries.
3. Check your health and get the necessary vaccinations
Before setting off for several months, it's important to check that you're in good health and fit to travel. Depending on your destination, some vaccinations may be compulsory or recommended: be careful not to leave it to the last minute, as you may have to wait several weeks for a 2nd dose, for example.
4. Prepare your papers and other important documents
Make sure your passport is valid for the duration of your round-the-world trip. Make photocopies and have digital versions. Take your health insurance card and travel insurance policy with you. Don't forget to find out early enough about VISAS and other administrative requirements for entering certain countries. If you plan to drive, your national license will not be recognized in all countries, so you'll need to apply for an international license (valid only with your national license). Make sure you take your credit cards with you, and let your bank know about your trip: this will avoid having your card blocked in the middle of Asia because the bank thinks it's fraudulent!
5. Prepare yourself mentally and dream a little!
Once you've taken the necessary steps to leave your job, home, etc., get mentally prepared while you take stock of what will fit into your bag. You need to travel light and practical: it can be a bit stressful for people who aren't used to living with the bare minimum. So be prepared for that too. Tell yourself that this round-the-world trip will be the adventure of a lifetime, but never forget that life is made up of unforeseen events: capricious weather, flight cancellations, unpleasant surprises... But all this will be nothing compared to the experience you're about to live. So be flexible and adaptable!
Don't forget your insurance!
At Europ Assistance Switzerland, we offer temporary travel insurance for up to 180 days and annual travel insurance for 365 days. If you're going away for a few months, you'll want to make sure you're covered for the unexpected (cancellation, 24-hour assistance, luggage, medical expenses, etc.).
