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Ah, how we love bureaucracy. You can’t avoid it, but there are a few things you can do to make it go down more easily. Plus we talk about keeping those all-important documents secure when you’re on the road.

Different countries have different ways of doing things, and at some point you’re sure to be surprised at how difficult it is to do something or how long it takes to get that all-important visa or tax number. You’ll spend a lot of time filling in forms, or – worse, trying to FIND those forms to fill in in the first place. So what can you do to make your experience with bureaucracy bearable?

• Be prepared. Before you arrive in your chosen country, find out what you’ll need to do when you get there. We failed to do that before we came to Australia, and have spent a lot of time trying to get around the online system for applying for a tax number. Two visits to the office and a phone call later, and we’re only 28 days from getting those numbers.
• Do what you can online, but make sure you use a secure computer – avoid internet cafes.
• If you’re going into an office, take ALL the documents you might POSSIBLY need with you. (My first visit to the tax office was useless because I didn’t have Craig’s passport).
• Double-check all forms to avoid errors.
• Speak to a real person if in doubt.
• Chase. Call after a week to check the progress of whatever you’re applying for.
• Take a deep breath. Bureaucracy is frustrating, but it’s going to be okay.

When travelling, your documents are possibly your most important possessions. Keep them safe.

• If you’re somewhere even slightly dodgy, or if you’re on a short trip, keep your passport and travel documents in your money belt, on your person.
• When staying for longer, put them in a document wallet and store them in your bag. Lock the bag.
• Before you leave home, photocopy your documents and get the copies authorised by a notary or justice of the peace. Store one copy separate from your real documents, and leave another copy with a friend back home.
• Take a photo or scan each item and keep it on your laptop. You can also keep a copy on a USB stick, or store documents on a website like Flickr.com. Make sure it’s private though.
• Keep all your documents on you when travelling, if not in your money belt at least in your carry-on bag.
• Always lock your bag (or the locker it’s in) and password-protect your laptop to keep your data secure. You can also create an encrypted folder or volume for added security for electronically stored documents.
• Keep your documents in good condition – don’t let them get wet or frayed.

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This article was written by Craig and Linda

Craig and Linda Martin have been living on the road since February 2006. Both born and raised in Auckland, New Zealand they are ... somewhere in the world! Craig and Linda host the Indie Travel Podcast - you can get in touch with them here.