Before you head off on your trip of a lifetime, be sure to have checked off all the essentials on this list.

1. Check the latest travel advice for your destination at the Australian Government's Smart Traveller website and subscribe to receive instant e-mail notification each time the travel advice for your destination is updated. All Australians travelling overseas, whether for tourism or business or for short or long stays, are encouraged to register with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade before travel. The registration information provided by you will help us to find you in an emergency - whether it is a natural disaster, civil disturbance or a family emergency.

2. Take out appropriate travel insurance to cover hospital treatment, medical evacuation and any activities, including adventure sports, in which you plan to participate.

3. Check to see if you require visas for the country or countries you are visiting or transiting. Be aware that a visa does not guarantee entry.

4. Make sure your suitcase is in good working order and that you have a lock for it. Information on luggage safety is available from the Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority. If you are travelling to the USA, The United States has specific requirements regarding locks used on airline baggage. See the US Department of Homeland Security's website for further details.

5. Make copies of your passport details, insurance policy, visas and credit card numbers. Carry one copy in a separate place to the originals and leave a copy with someone at home.

6. Check with health professionals for information on recommended vaccinations or other precautions and find out about overseas laws on travelling with medicines.

7. Make sure your passport has at least six months validity and carry additional copies of your passport photo with you in case you need a replacement passport while overseas.

8. Leave a copy of your travel itinerary with someone at home and keep in regular contact with friends and relatives while overseas.

9. Cancel newspapers and lock all doors and windows. Inform trusted neighbours of your absence and arrange for them to clear your letterbox of mail (and/or have it held or redirected), and keep an eye on your home. If you are travelling for any length of time you will also want to defrost your refrigerator and freezer, turn off electricity, gas and water.

10. Many telephones (including mobile phones) will not work in other non-compatible countries. If you take a mobile phone, check if you can use it with your service provider. Don't forget your telephone charger and an electrical adaptor plug!

For more tips, visit Yahoo!7 Travel

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