MileHacker Logo
Lord Howe Island Travel Checklist

Lord Howe Island Travel Checklist

Lord Howe Island Australia Travel Guide

Your Planning Timeline

A phased approach to your Lord Howe Island adventure.

Strategic Planning Milestones

Advance booking is paramount due to visitor limits.

1

-12 Months Out

Flights & Accommodation

Book QantasLink flights and accommodation; they sell out quickly.

Passport Validity

Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond return.

Consider Packages

Review accommodation packages; they may offer good value.

2

-4 Months Out

Visa Application

Apply for your Australian visa if needed, allowing ample time.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation.

Tour Bookings

Secure guided tours like Mount Gower or dive trips early.

3

Month Out & Closer

Health Consult

Consult your doctor for health advice and vaccinations.

Confirmations

Confirm all flights, accommodation, plus tour arrangements.

Final Checks

Plan itinerary, check weather, clean gear for biosecurity.

Booking Essentials

Due to visitor limitations, early booking is .

Prioritize Bookings

  • Flights to Lord Howe Island sell out quickly.
  • Accommodation booking is crucial due to the cap.
  • The Mount Gower trek has limited spots.
  • Book specific dive or boat tours well in advance.

Pre-Trip Research

Familiarity with the island specifics enhances your visit.

Information to Know

  • Familiarize yourself with the island's conservation rules.
  • Understand biosecurity regulations to protect the ecosystem.
  • Be aware of the limited infrastructure and services.
  • Embrace the slower, unhurried pace of island life.

Home Preparations

Before leaving, handle domestic arrangements.

Security

  • Secure your home.
  • Inform trusted contacts of your travel plans.
  • Check home security systems.
  • Arrange for bill payments if away for long.

Mail & Pets

  • Have your mail held or collected.
  • Organize pet care if needed.
  • Ensure plants are watered.
  • Empty trash bins before leaving.

Digital & Documents

  • Download offline maps and useful apps.
  • Organize both digital and physical copies of documents.
  • Inform your bank about your trip.
  • Confirm Qantas flight details.

Planning Insight

Booking flights and accommodation 6-12 ahead of time is strongly recommended for Lord Howe Island.

Arrival Checklist

Follow these steps upon landing.

Welcome to the Island

  • 1
    Clear Immigration and Customs

    At your beginning mainland entry point (e.g., Sydney or Brisbane).

  • 2
    Accommodation Transfer

    Your provider typically meets you at LHI Airport for transfer.

  • 3
    Biosecurity Check

    Be equipped for a check at LHI Airport; clean shoes, declare items.

Settling In

  • Obtain a Map

    Acquire a map from your accommodation for orientation.

  • Rent a Bicycle

    Immediately rent a bike; it is your main mode of transport.

  • Visit General Store

    Orient yourself with central services and amenities.

First Steps on LHI

Immediate Actions

After clearing biosecurity, connect with your transfer.

Obtain a map and familiarize yourself with your surroundings.

Getting Around

Rent a bicycle right away; it is your main mode of transport.

Confirm bike return procedures with your rental provider.

Local Services

Get to know the General Store and its hours.

Attend any orientation sessions your lodge conducts.

Seamless Transition

Ensure your shoes are meticulously clean for biosecurity upon arrival at LHI Airport.

Departure Preparation

Plan for a smooth departure from Lord Howe Island.

Pre-Flight Logistics

  • Purchase souvenirs in advance of your departure.
  • Inquire about shipping options from the Post Office.
  • VAT refund procedures are only applicable from the continental part Australia.
  • Adhere strictly to airline baggage limits for your flight.

Final Checks

  • Reconfirm your transfer time to LHI Airport.
  • Check out from your lodging as per schedule.
  • Confirm your onward flights from Sydney or Brisbane.
  • Ensure all personal belongings are collected.

Departure Timing

Plan your final hours on the isle with care.

Considerations

  • Allow adequate time for airport transfer.1-A couple of hours before
  • Ensure bags are packed to airline weight limits.Before transfer
  • Settle any outstanding lodge bills.Morning of departure
  • Return rental bikes or equipment.Prior to verify-out

Return Trip Preparation

  • Confirm onward flights from your mainland arrival city.
  • Arrange transport from the mainland airport if needed.
  • Notify contacts of your expected arrival in your home country.
  • Reflect on your island experience as you depart.

Departure Reminder

Reconfirm your airport transfer with your accommodation.

Always adhere to strict baggage limits for your flight from Lord Howe Island.