4 Essential things you MUST do before traveling to South-East Asia

I’m sure many of you who are planning on traveling can’t get out the door fast enough and neither could I! Now that’s all well and good until you get a border and realise you don’t have the requirements for actually getting into the country e.g a particular visa or proof of onward travel! Not to worry, with these quick  tips planning your travels will be a breeze.

1 – Check Visa Requirements 

Visa requirements will differ slightly in most of the countries. Thailand, for example, is relatively simple as most countries including the UK and USA get a free 30-day visa stamp which can be extended once you’re there for a fee (around 1900Baht) It’s wise to have proof of onward travel e.g a plane ticket  when coming to a Thai Border as they can refuse to let you in, although this is rare (I wouldn’t risk it) . Cambodia and Laos also have Visas on arrival although they have a fee. Vietnam is more complicated, you should check the requirements and obtain your visa beforehand. At each border, it’s advised you bring a small passport photo with you as they may charge you if you don’t have one.

2 – Vaccinations

This information applies to the UK as that’s where I’m from but be sure to look up what vaccinations you need wherever you’re traveling from at least 6 weeks before you go. In the UK you can go to your local G.P and they’ll give you information on what you need. I was told that I needed Hepititas A and B, and typhoid which I was able to get on the NHS. You will also need to be up to date with tetanus and cholera. They also gave me the option for Rabies and Japanese Encephalitis, now these are optional and you have to pay yourself (about 200 ish all together) but I went ahead, better to be safe than sorry ey.

3 – Work Out a Budget

As many of you have probably heard, South-East Asia is incredibly cheap which is great if you have a tight budget. Your budget will depend on what style of traveling you want to experience, personally, I don’t mind being on a shoestring in shared dorms with an occasional private room when I’m feeling moody, you get immersed with other travelers, It’s a great way to make friends and of course is the cheapest option! Typically on a shoestring I could spend up to $650 a month. Of course, if you prefer a little more luxury and comfort you’ll need a bigger budget.

4 – Know What To Pack

All in all, you should find it easy to pack for SEA, It’s hot and humid, I for one packed very little and used a carry-on only 40L backpack which wasn’t even full. In all honesty, just buy stuff when you’re there, for example, elephant pants or sarongs; it’s cheaper and you’ll fit in with the locals more.  As a woman myself I can safely say ladies, makeup is almost non-existent, don’t even bother trust me, you’ll sweat it off in seconds! Here is a list of what I took;

• 3-4 tops
• 2-3 shorts
• Underwear for a week
• Basic toiletries including insect repellant and toilet paper (not everywhere has it…)
• Small first aid kit
• Go-pro
• Stealth waist wallet
•  Daypack
• Waterproof jacket
• Passport copies and travel money cards etc
• Water bottle (You’ll become a fish)
• Journal
• Microfiber towel
• Lonely Planet shoestring guide –  https://amzn.to/2xr0SEC   (I found this book especially helpful when planning routes it has tonnes of information on accommodation, sights and places to eat, especially if you’re on a tight budget)

Comment below if you’re planning a trip ☺️ and follow for more tips to come