It is obviously very important to tie up all loose ends before you leave home. This is a general checklist of things to do items to consider taking and things to do before you leave:

 • Research
Talk to others who have taught English overseas and ask them for advice.
Research in detail the country of your destinations so that you are prepared for your new home away from home!

 • Passport
Check your passport expiry date. Some countries refuse entry if you have less than 6 months left on your passport before it expires.

Check the number of pages left in your passport to be sure there are enough left for several entry, exit and visa stamps. Some countries will not issue a visa stamp unless there is an empty page for it.

Take some extra passport-sized photos with you just in case you lose your passport or suddenly discover you need a visa. Some countries do not have the service for developing passport photos.

Check to see if a visa (a stamp in your passport) is required and whether you can get it on arrival or need it in advance. Allow four – six weeks.

 • Visas
You should be aware of which entry visas are required for what country. 

Sometimes you are issued a tourist visa at the airport and sometimes you have to go through the embassy in your home country. Check ahead of time before you leave in order not to be turned away at the airport. Also check to see what reentry visas are required to get back into the country if you leave. Most countries issue a single entry visa, which means if you leave; your visa is void. Getting a multiple reentry visa is as simple as paying about twenty dollars and going down to immigration.

 • Documents
Make multiple copies of your passport & all travel documents (including airline tickets) – leave one with your family and hide one in your suitcase just in case one is stolen.

In addition to photocopying your documents, record the numbers of your credit cards, traveler’s cheques. Passport, airline tickets etc. and leave these with family or a friend.

 • Medical
Health can make or break a trip. It should be the first priority in your travel plans. Talk to your doctor at least two months before departure to see which vaccinations you need.

Don’t forget to take a medical kit with you when you go. Talk to your doctor about what to take.

 • Vaccinations
Always check with your doctor which vaccinations are needed for the country you are going to. At the very least you should be immunized against Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Hepatitis, Tetanus and Polio. (Please note – this is a guide only – to decrease your risk of contracting a serious illness talk to your doctor).

 • Money
Take some money (traveler’s checks) to cover the cost of your living expenses during the first month. Make sure you always keep track of the exchange rate so you know what your money is worth!

Take a credit card – they sometimes offer the best exchange on your money when withdrawing local currency.

Take local currency – local currency is important when you arrive a t the airport and none of the money changing kiosks are open. You may also need them for airport improvement fees, and if you cannot pay the fee then airports may not allow you to board your plane. Large amounts of money should be kept hidden and close to the skin while throw away money should be kept in your purse. Thieves are more skilled at taking your money than you are at keeping your money, so be careful.

 • HOW YOU ARE FEELING
Keep a positive mental attitude – this is definitely the most important thing to pack in your suitcase! If you can stay positive, you will have a great time regardless of any temporary setbacks or disappointments you may encounter. If you don’t feel mentally prepared to leave your home country, wait until you do. The results will be worth the delay.