For Indian Australians, overseas travel is rarely just a holiday. It is weddings back home, elderly parents in another city, a cousin’s graduation, a pilgrimage, and, in many cases, a long-awaited visit to the home country that has been rescheduled more than once. In 2026, those trips are taking shape in a travel environment that is shifting faster than most of us are used to. To help navigate these changing travel circumstances, the Australian Government is urging travellers to check and subscribe to official advice on Smartraveller before booking, packing, and boarding.
Travel advice includes layovers too!
The message from Smartraveller is straightforward: ‘Do not travel’ advice also applies to transit and layovers in affected locations. Even if you don’t plan to leave the airport, do not transit through these countries.
A ticket that looked routine a month ago might now involve routes or transit points that carry real risk. Regardless of where travellers are heading, including destinations such as India, the subcontinent more broadly, Europe, Africa or the Gulf – all travellers should read the travel advice for every destination on their itinerary, including each layover.
This last point is more important than many realise. Travel advice applies to the entire journey, not just the final stop. Smartraveller advice levels show how risky a destination is for Australian travellers. Level 4 “Do not travel” means you should not travel to this location. You’re at a high risk of death, imprisonment, kidnapping or serious injury. Level 3 “Reconsider your need to travel” means you should avoid non-essential travel: there are serious and potentially life-threatening risks.
Passing through an affected airport can expose you to cancelled flights, closed borders and being unable to leave.
Flight paths and fuel pressures
Airspace closures in parts of the Middle East have affected airline flight paths. For those flying to major hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, Kochi, or Amritsar, this has meant longer flight times and sudden rebooking. It’s best to stay in close contact with your airline or travel agent and build a buffer into your plans in case a connection doesn’t run on time.
Global fuel supply challenges are also quietly shaping travel this year. Several countries have introduced restrictions which can have a ripple affect on flight schedules, local transport, and even the availability of food, water, and medicines. Monitor updates from Smartraveller and follow the relevant Australian Embassy’s social media channels while you’re away to stay up to date with new measures introduced at short notice.
Insurance: Don’t Risk travelling without it
Travel insurance is a must while travelling. However, policies vary widely, and usually won’t cover transit through high risk locations. When getting travel insurance read the fine print, call your insurer, and confirm exactly what is covered before you leave. No coverage at all can leave families facing massive out-of-pocket costs for medical care or emergency rebooking.
Staying Safe and Alert
Military conflict in the Middle East could impact safety and security elsewhere. Protests and civil unrest may happen globally. The risk of terrorist attacks can increase. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places or mass gatherings.
Smartraveller asks travellers to monitor local and international news and be aware of current affairs where you’re going, prioritise your safety and follow local authorities’ advice, and report anything suspicious to the police.
Consular Support and Dual Nationality
If you run into trouble, consular support is available, but it has limits. Assistance depends on local conditions, and for dual nationals, the Australian Government may only be able to help in your country of other nationality in exceptional circumstances.
Before you head off, save the Consular Emergency Centre contact numbers:
- 1300 555 135 (within Australia)
- +61 2 6261 3305 (from anywhere in the world)
The Simple Checklist:
- Know before you go by reading the advice for your destination and all transit points.
- Subscribe to free updates on the Smartraveller website.
- Confirm your insurance covers every leg of your trip, including flight delays, cancellations and changes to travel advice levels.
- Follow the local Australian Embassy on social media.
- Travel safely and stay alert. Visit smartraveller.gov.au to stay informed.
This article has been developed in partnership with Smartraveller.gov.au.
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