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Brisbane Travel Checklist

Brisbane Travel Checklist

Brisbane Queensland, Australia Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

A structured approach to pre-trip planning supports detailed readiness.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Detailed steps for a smooth journey to Brisbane.

1

Months Before

Visa & Passport

Apply for Australian visa. Check passport validity (6+ months).

Flights & Accommodation

Book international flights and major accommodation.

Insurance & Research

Research & purchase travel insurance. Begin itinerary research.

2

Month Before

Internal Travel

Purchase domestic airfare/trains. Finalize all accommodation.

Tours & Documents

Book essential tours. Arrange IDP if needed.

Health & Finance

Check vaccinations. Inform bank of travel plans.

3

Week Before

Confirmations & Meds

Confirm all bookings. Pack medications with a doctor's letter.

Documents & Tech

Prepare copies of documents. Purchase travel adapters.

Home & Apps

Arrange home/pet sitting. Download essential apps. Charge devices.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these items for an easy journey.

Reservations

  • Visa: Your Australian entry document.
  • Flights: International and any domestic flights.
  • Accommodation: All hotel, hostel, or apartment bookings.
  • Popular Tours: Those that sell out quickly (e.g., Story Bridge Climb).

Pre-Trip Research

Knowledge about Brisbane before you leave.

Topics

  • Traffic Laws: Familiarise with left-hand side driving.
  • Public Transport: The TransLink system and Go Card.
  • Local Etiquette: Understand customs and tipping.
  • Events/Festivals: Check for major happenings during your visit.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Secure your home before heading out.

Home Security

  • Lock all windows and doors.
  • Set alarms if applicable.
  • Notify trusted contacts.
  • Unplug non-essential electronics.

Mail, Plants & Pets

  • Arrange for mail collection.
  • Arrange for plant watering.
  • Organize pet care if needed.
  • Pay any bills due while away.

Travel Itinerary Sharing

  • Inform trusted contacts of your itinerary.
  • Share emergency contact details.
  • Ensure someone has access for emergencies.
  • Depart with peace of mind.

Organize Documents

Create a physical folder for printouts of all your bookings and documents, and a digital folder on your phone or cloud storage for easy access.

Arrival & Orientation

Your initial times in Brisbane contribute to your trip's tone.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs:

    Clear immigration and customs. Be truthful on your Incoming Passenger Card to avoid issues.

  • 2
    Luggage Collection:

    Collect your checked luggage after customs. Australia has stringent quarantine laws.

  • 3
    Visitor Information:

    Visit an airport or city visitor information center for maps and local advice.

Orientation & Essentials

  • Local SIM Card:

    Purchase a local SIM card if not already arranged for connectivity.

  • Local Transport:

    Orient yourself with airport transfer options and public transport.

  • Currency Exchange:

    Withdraw Australian Dollars from an ATM or exchange currency if needed.

Getting Around & Connected

Orientation Strategies

Visit airport or city visitor information centers for maps and advice from locals.

Grab free tourist guides upon arrival for local insights.

Initial Purchases

Withdraw Australian Dollars from an ATM or exchange currency if needed.

Purchase a TransLink Go Card for public transport use.

Transport to Accommodation

Follow your pre-booked arrangements or signage for Airtrain, bus, taxi, or ride-share.

Know your route to your lodging.

A Calm Beginning

Take a moment to breathe and observe your surroundings. Brisbane is a welcoming city, and a calm start supports your adjustment.

Departure Preparations

Smooth processes for leaving Brisbane.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Purchase souvenirs well in advance of departure.
  • Arrange shipping with a postal service or courier if needed.
  • Be aware of what you can bring back home.
  • Check eligibility for Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS).

VAT Refund Procedures

  • Australia has a Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) for GST/WET.
  • Claim a refund on goods over AUD $300 purchased within 60 days.
  • Original tax invoices are needed for the claim.
  • Goods require sighting at the airport's TRS facility.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allocate ample time for airport processes.

Airport Schedule

  • International Flights:Arrive 3 hours before.
  • Domestic Flights:Arrive 1-2 hours before.
  • Extra Time for:Rental car drop-off, check-in.
  • Also for:Security screening, TRS procedures.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Confirm your flight details with your airline.
  • Pack securely and adhere to baggage limits.
  • Ensure all valuable documents are easily accessible.
  • Leave enough time to get to the airport/station.

Keep Tax Invoices

Keep your original tax invoices for any goods you plan to claim a refund on with the TRS.

Have them ready for inspection at the airport.

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