»  Before you go anywhere, make sure your passport is in a decent condition and has got at least 6 months on it (by return date). Some countries get livid and will refuse you entry if this criteria is not met. Also ensure you have all the necessary visas before leaving home!

»  You genuinely should get travel insurance . Quite simply it may save your life! - Check out TC's continuously updated Top 5 travel insurance companies for three different time brackets. These companies have been chosen to represent the best value deals available to you.

»  Take enough money for your trip plus a bit extra in the form of travellers cheques or US dollars. Its worth noting that some countries will require proof of enough money to even enter (a debit/credit card will normally do). Prior to leaving, make sure you set aside enough money, in local funds, to pay the Departure fees / tax that they slap on you when leaving certain countries. Pay this with dignity and only swear at the injustice of it all when you are out of earshot!

»  Make copies of your passport, insurance policy, travellers cheque numbers and ticket details. Leave copies of these with your family and friends. Sending these to your hotmail / yahoo is NOT to be recommended due to safety issues.

»  Leave a copy of your itinerary with your friends and family and also try and keep in contact at least once a week via your profile at TravellersConnected.com. Always remember, parents were born to worry irrespective of how old you are.

»  Use TC's forums or get a good guide book to get to know your destination. Find out about the local laws, traditions and customs (especially regarding dress, drugs and alcohol) before you go so that you don't end up in trouble with the locals.

»  If you don't know the language, take a phrase book. Locals will really appreciate the effort and it could get you out of a tight spot.

»  Save time in emergencies by writing the full details of your next of kin in your passport. You should also take another form of ID with you (preferably of the photographic variety).

»  Check out what vaccinations you need at least 6 weeks before you go. Some may involve more than one sitting eg. Rabies. Also be aware that these can cost serious money and therefore should be budgeted in to your total trip cost from the start!

»  Check with the Department of Health to see if you need to take any extra health precautions.

»  If you're on medication, check if it's legal in the country you are visiting. You should always carry it in your hand luggage on flights and it's advisable to take the prescription and a GP's letter to support the fact you are not in fact the international drugs smuggler they might think you are!

»  Always avoid Cowboy operators, they definitely DON'T offer better value for your money and will inevitably stitch you up. Find out from other travellers directly who are the reputable companies

»  Similarly, If you are going to be flying anywhere when you are away with an unfamiliar company, it is important to check their safety record PRE-flight

»  Don't pack anything sharp in your hand luggage, they confiscate it and then melt it!!!