There are some holidays you literally can’t go on unless you have a visa (no visa, no entry!). Others you should think twice about going on unless you’ve had a friendly jab in the arm first.

But with stacks of places you could choose from for your next holiday, how do you work out what visas or vaccinations you need to sort out before you go?

Internet research can help, as can talking to your GP, but the most effective way to get in the visa and vaccination know-how is to ask a travel agent.

Check out the what the authorities have to say

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) wants you to "travel smart", so it issues regular travel advice and provides plenty of information about worldwide travel, including visa requirements and vaccinations. The website is a great place to start your research.

Similarly, you can ask your friendly GP about immunisation requirements or contact a specialist travel immunisation centre. Because of the responsibility that both the government and health authorities have for your well-being, they may go a bit "worse case scenario" on you though, so getting advice from a travel agent is also a great idea.

Why ask a travel agent?

Travel agents are plugged into a number of professional and personal networks, so their finger is on the pulse when it comes to up-to-date travel information.

Using a travel agent to take all the hassle out of getting any visas you might need will ensure you don’t get off a plane in another country and find out your holiday is suddenly over because you don’t have the visa you need – worst holiday ever!

It also means you can focus on more important pre-travel matters like picking your favourite sunnies to take or telling your workmates AGAIN about that amazing bungalow on the beach you’re staying at…that, surprise surprise, your travel agent found for you!  

The same travel agent will be the one who also knows if you need to get vaccination shots or tablets before visiting certain countries or areas. They will have current information on health advisories for anywhere you’re heading.

Bottom line? If you’re looking to "travel smart" when it comes to visa requirements or vaccinations before your next trip, contact a travel agent.