Originally Posted by Christopher

I really think registering with smartraveller is completely safe (i.e. your personal details won't be generally available or used to bad purpose), and the worst it can be is useless. On the other hand, it could be helpful in the event of a major disaster where you are (which is unlikey, since neither Germany or Finland is prone to natural disasters like earthquakes, and both are stable countries socially and politically). I cannot see that it would have any effect on your travel insuruance.

As to when - I'd say a few days before you leave, although there's no hard and fast rule about that. I don't think it's necessary to do it yet, however, since it's ten months or so until you travel.

I hope that you enjoy the trip!