The first chapter of Byrne's guide for emigrants gives advice on selecting a colony to emigrate to, on the clothing and equipment that will be required aboard ship, the variety of food that will be available, and how free passage might be obtained.

He advises the prospective emigrant to carefully consider the differences between the colonies, and gives an indication of which trades are most in demand, but also indicates that the professional classes are already well filled in the colonies. Byrne discusses banking and currency, before moving on to the all important subject of the type and quantity of clothing that should be taken, including what should be available for immediate use aboard ship. He warns the ladies that any silk and some other types of clothing are liable to damage unless very carefully packed.

In addition to clothing there are the eating utensils and other items such as sheets and blankets that will be required aboard. Byrne describes the accommodation, the necessity to 'submit implicitly to the directions of the captain and officers'. The diet during the voyage is set out in a table within the book.

Byrne advises the new arrival with capital to invest it for a short period until he gains more practical knowledge of the colony before investing that money in farming or mining or other areas. This may save him later difficulties. Lastly he talks briefly about the costs of fares for steerage, cabin or intermediate passengers.

Elsewhere in his book Byrne elaborates on each of the colonies with details of past governance, its prospects, mining and exports, and religion.

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