Travel Tips and Advice

Friday 18, June 2010

Air travel is often a major part of the locum lifestyle, so we have compiled a list of helpful hints to ensure you have a smooth, stress-free flight.

Preparation

If it is necessary to catch a connecting flight in order to reach your destination, always leave a minimum of one hour between each flight to allow for any possible delays. For international travel, it is recommended that you allocate a minimum of two hours.
Carry a copy of your travel itinerary, but also leave a copy with someone at home.
Ensure you have all necessary documents such as your tickets and photo identification, as well as your passport for international flights.
Before you leave home, double check the flight status for departure and check-in times.
There are often a range of check-in options available to you, although this may vary between airlines. For example, you may be able to check in online while you are still at home, or by using an electronic kiosk or the service counters at the airport.

Packing

Check with the airline to ensure your carry-on and checked baggage meets all size and weight requirements. It is also important to take note of any prohibited carry-on inclusions.
Qantas recommends that you lock any checked baggage, although it may be necessary to open it during security screening. If required, security officials are authorised to break the lock if you are not present.
Avoid unnecessary carry-on baggage, as you may need to walk long distances within the airport and cabin space is limited.
Keep fragile or valuable items on board with you, as well as any medications or prescriptions.
Clearly label each item of checked baggage with your name and contact details.
X-ray scanners can mistake everyday items as a security risk in a poorly packed bag. To avoid delays at the screening point, try to pack your carry-on bags in an organised manner.
You may need to remove you laptop from its bag at the screening point, a process made easier if the laptop is not covered by other objects.
Quantity limits on liquids, aerosols and gels do not apply to passengers travelling on domestic flights. For international travel, products must be in containers of 100 millilitres/grams or less. These must then be placed in a transparent, resealable plastic bag. The four sides of the bag must add up to no more than 80 centimetres.
There are also a number of prohibited items for carry on luggage. These include but are not limited to drugs and sharp objects even if not usually considered a safety risk such as knitting needles and nail clippers. Some of these rules have been amended recently so for up to date information check with your airline to get the full details prior to travel.

For further information you may like to visit the following websites

www.travelsecure.infrastructure.gov.au
www.qantas.com.au
www.virginblue.com.au
www.jetstar.com
www.rex.com.au