Travel insurance
It is imperative that you organise your travel insurance. The
best option is to make sure it covers you whilst you are travelling
to the UK and for the first few months you are in London. When
you're in the UK, you can look into other providers such as your UK
bank or insurance companies as it tends to be cheaper and easier to
arrange.
Australians
The Australian Government recommends that you register your
whereabouts while overseas on the Smart
Traveller Register.
Vaccinations for the UK
Although specific vaccinations are not needed for UK travel,
it's always worthwhile keeping your hepatitis A and B, tetanus and
polio immunisations up to date. The World Health Organisation (WHO)
recommends all travellers be covered for diphtheria, measles, mumps
and rubella.
You can get more vaccinations in the UK if you plan to travel to
more exotic climates but don't forget that if you're stopping over
somewhere during your long-haul flight, then you need to ensure
you're vaccinated appropriately, regardless of how short your visit
will be.
Pack suitable clothing
Winter in the UK can be cold - colder than you might be used to
and winter clothing purchased back home can often not be enough. So
when you get to the UK, buy a proper winter coat. Layers are not
enough!
Don't forget your documentation
It's important to ensure that you have all the right
documentation with you before you set off on your travels. We've
outlined some of the essential items you'll need to take with you
to ensure you don't find yourself in a crisis situation.
- Your passport
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate
- Academic qualifications
- References from previous employers
- Up-to-date curriculum vitae
- An international drivers licence or permit (if you are planning
on driving)
- The appropriate currency for the country you're travelling
through
- Make copies of all the above and keep in a separate compartment
of your luggage.