As international travel rebounds, young Australians are once again packing their bags to explore the world. Whether visiting family, or chasing new experiences, more young people are venturing overseas, often without fully understanding the risks.
The Australian Government’s Smartraveller service urges travellers to plan wisely and take simple precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Smartraveller isn’t just about avoiding disasters – it’s about being prepared for the everyday risks that can negatively impact your trip. From unfamiliar local laws to water safety and nightlife dangers, advice is available to help Australians stay safe.
More Than Just Travel Tips
Smartraveller is the official source of travel advice for Australians, providing up-to-date information on more than 175 destinations. Beyond security or health warnings, Smartraveller covers lesser-known risks that are especially relevant for younger travellers, including:
• Staying safe while partying overseas
• Recognising the signs of drink or drug spiking
• Avoiding methanol poisoning from counterfeit alcohol
• Water safety in oceans, lakes, and pools abroad.
Smartraveller also offers destination-specific tips on local customs, laws, cultural sensitivities, and even cyber safety.
Real Dangers, Real Advice
For many, travel safety means vaccinations and travel insurance. But Smartraveller highlights that everyday situations, like attending a party or taking a dip at a tropical beach, when done overseas, can come with real dangers, especially in unfamiliar environments.
You might know how to stay safe at an Aussie beach, but overseas waters can be a different story. Strong currents, unfamiliar marine life, or different pool regulations can all pose serious risks. The comprehensive advice provided by Smartraveller highlights the importance of understanding local conditions, swimming sober, and always swimming in the company of friends or family. Don’t forget to check local signage and instructions from lifeguards.
Being aware and informed makes all the difference!
Similarly, what feels like a fun night out in a foreign city can quickly go wrong. Partying abroad can be risky, especially if you don’t know how to get home safely or fall victim to spiking or unsafe alcohol.
Smartraveller recommends having a plan to ensure you can reach your accommodation safely. Keep track of your alcohol consumption and know your limits. Be wary of drink or drug spiking and know what to do if you suspect you’ve been spiked. Watch out for methanol poisoning and get medical help immediately if you suspect it’s happened to you or a friend.
Subscribe To Smart Information
Smartraveller encourages all travellers to subscribe to free destination alerts, which provide real-time safety updates while overseas. These alerts sent directly to your inbox, helps you respond quickly to changing conditions, from natural disasters to civil unrest or health outbreaks.
You can also access advice in multiple languages, including Arabic, through the Smartraveller community page.
Before You Pack, Check Smartraveller
Remember, when it comes to travel, preparation is more than just booking flights. So, make Smartraveller your first destination. Get all the information you need to make your trip memorable for the right reasons.
Stay informed, safe and come home with wonderful travel memories.
Visit Smartraveller.gov.au today.
This article is written in partnership with the Australian Government’s Smartraveller – the trusted travel advice service.