With tens of thousands of Kiwis travelling or living overseas every year, it's no surprise that most of the time, it's an incident-free experience. However, even the best-laid plans can be disrupted by various issues. Some of these issues are impossible to predict or prevent, so taking the proper precautions and knowing the correct information can minimize the risks you face overseas.
Get in line as soon as you can so you can rest assured that your luggage will be able to fit in the overhead bin. Some airlines offer a free carry-on check at the gate, while others may charge you to check your carry-on if you cannot fit it in the overhead bin and it's slightly over the carry-on limit.
You can get too big or too heavy bags onto the plane, but you will be hit with hefty fees at the end of the day. Instead, put all your valuable and breakable items in your 'personal item' bag (also known as an under-seat carry-on) and your non-essential things like clothes in the big suitcase (also known as the overhead compartment).
Check the latest travel advice from our website pages or New Zealand Visa Requirements.
Register your travel and contact details.
This information shall be kept confidential and only used in an emergency. For instance, we may issue a tropical cyclone warning or provide advice on how to respond in the event of a significant civil disturbance or a terrorist incident.Travel documents & visa
You should always have a valid passport with which you can identify. It is also suitable for accompanying children. Some countries require your travel document to be helpful for six months from the date you leave the country. You may need a visa, which can be checked at the Embassy of New Zealand in The Hague. Bring necessary documents for minor children when travelling alone to avoid waiting in long border lines. You must have a valid New Zealand driver's licence to rent or drive a motor vehicle. Check if you need an International Driving License in New Zealand.Travel Insurance
Get good travel insurance to cover the extra costs, such as repatriation or hospitalization, that your primary health insurance doesn't cover 100% of. Consider what you plan to do (extreme sports, for example) and put your travel insurer's emergency number on your phone. Your policy should cover the following:- Your planned activities
- Personal liability
- Medical treatment
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Any pre-existing conditions
- Minor medical treatment overseas can be very costly.
- If you're injured overseas and return to NZ, ACC may cover treatment costs in NZ (but only if you plan to be abroad for less than six months). ACC can't cover overseas expenses.
Money and mobile phone
- Ensure you have enough cash to cover unforeseen travel costs (e.g. flight delays).
- Bring multiple forms of payment to New Zealand. It could be cash, a debit or a credit card, etc.
- Enter your bank's phone number into your phone. Protecting your bank card if you lose or steal it is essential.
- Ask your provider what mobile calls and data costs are outside the EU. You may be able to buy a foreign package from your provider.
- Ensure your bank card is active for debit cards outside of Europe.
