There's a magic about overseas travel that comes from the anticipation of exploring new places and trying new things, but when something goes wrong far from home, a dream trip can quickly turn daunting for even the most adventurous travellers.
But experienced jet-setters know there are some sensible precautions you can take before you leave to reduce the chances of anything going awry or limiting the aggravation if it does.
A poll of some very well-travelled British Airways managers revealed the following top tips for preventing common travel traumas ruining your trip.
Do a double-check: Problems with travel documentation can be a major cause of travel stress. So before you leave home, ensure your passport is not about to expire within the travel period or the next few months. Also check that there are at least two open pages. Some countries will not let you in if your passport is full or about to expire.
Get backup: Lost or stolen documentation can be a major headache, but carrying a second form of identity other than your passport, spare passport photographs and certified copies of all your documentation can considerably speed up getting them replaced. Keep your backup documentation separately from your other travel papers.
Update your jabs: Make sure any inoculations you require are up to date. If not you may be charged for an inoculation on arrival. Not only can this be very expensive, but in some countries the vaccine may be out of date or the equipment not properly sterilised.
Print your plans: Many countries have tightened their immigration rules, so take a copy of your itinerary and include contact numbers of friends, relatives or hotels where you'll be staying. The easier you make it for immigration officials to check your plans the less hustle you're likely to encounter.
Take cover: The first rule is not to pack any valuables in your hold baggage. International conventions limit airlines' liability on lost or stolen baggage and most only compensate according to weight of the bag, rather than the value of its contents. It's also a good idea to take out travel insurance. Many credit card companies offer free travel insurance on tickets purchased using their cards, but it's worth checking on what this covers and, if necessary, taking a top-up policy.
Keep essentials close: Think about what you’ll need on board, such as your travel documents, any medication, glasses or other essential items and pack these in your hand luggage. Check how much hand luggage you're able to take on board as this can differ on long-haul and connecting flights, depending on the class of travel and the aircraft type. It's a good idea to use a day pack or shoulder bag for your hand luggage as you can put this on your back and keep your hands free.
Light is right: When packing your hold luggage, less is more, particularly if you're going to have to carry your bags any distance, use public transport or have a lot of connections. Remember that in some countries you are not able to check your luggage through and have to collect it at the first point of entry. And it can be a long walk between the arrivals terminal and where you need to check in for the next flight. That's why it's also useful to choose a suitcase with wheels, as baggage trolleys aren't always available.
Be a prudent packer: Find out what the weather's likely to be like before you leave, so you don't end up lugging a huge parka around in blazing heat or step into a blizzard in shorts and a tee-shirt. Generally it's a good idea to take a lightweight, but warm waterproof coat, some tee-shirts, a pair of trousers to travel in and a spare set and one or two collared shirts. Travel in a pair of comfortable shoes and take one spare pair. Remember it's easier to buy a shirt or pair of trousers if you run short than lug around a whole lot of stuff you don't need.
Think clothing contingencies: If you're travelling with a partner or your family, spread your clothes between the suitcases, so if you do lose one bag you at least have a change of clothes. Remember a lot of modern baggage tends to look the same, so always mark your bags clearly. This will make it easier for you to identify them on the carousel and will help prevent anyone mistakenly picking up the wrong bag. It also makes it easier for the airlines to track bags and return them to you if they do go missing.
Be contactable: Make sure there are contact numbers in your booking, either for a mobile phone or the place you're staying so the airline can advise you if a flight is delayed or cancelled. You can input this contact information yourself by using the 'Manage My Booking' feature on ba.com.
"A little common sense, preparation and planning before you leave can save you a huge amount of stress and tribulation if something unexpected happens during your trip," says James Wooldridge, British Airways Ghana's Country Manager.