Pre-Trip Checklist: Cairns

Essential Preparations

Effective planning begins well before departure.

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Confirm passport validity (6+ months). Apply for appropriate Australian visa early.

Flights & Accommodation

Book major international flights and high-season accommodation.

Insurance & Health

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Consult doctor for vaccinations.

Month Before

Tours & Transport

Book major tours and arrange domestic flights or car rental.

Financial & Digital

Inform bank of travel plans. Download useful travel apps.

Packing

Begin creating a detailed packing list. Consider durable packing organizers from Eagle Creek.

Week Before

Reconfirmations

Reconfirm all flights, accommodation, and tour bookings.

Electronics & Documents

Charge all electronics. Organize digital and physical copies of essential documents.

Currency & Mobile

Obtain Australian currency or plan ATM access. Confirm mobile roaming or local SIM purchase.

Required Advance Bookings

Items to Book

Visa for Australia.
International and domestic flights.
Accommodation.
Major tours (Reef, Kuranda, White Water Rafting, Daintree).

Pre-Trip Research Suggestions

Topics for Research

Research weather patterns for your specific travel dates.
Check for any public holidays in Queensland during your visit.
Explore specific interests like diving schools, hiking trails, or culinary experiences.
Familiarize yourself with local transportation options and costs.

Home Preparation

Mail & Pets

Hold your mail or arrange for collection.
Arrange care for your pets.
Ensure pet sitters have emergency contacts.
Stop newspaper deliveries.

Home Security

Secure your home.
Use timers for lights to deter intruders.
Lock all windows and doors.
Unplug unnecessary appliances.

Contact Information

Inform trusted contacts of your itinerary.
Provide emergency contact information.
Set up out-of-office replies for emails.
Ensure neighbors are aware of your absence.

Travel Insurance Alert

Comprehensive travel insurance from a reputable provider like World Nomads is strongly recommended. It covers unforeseen events from medical emergencies to trip cancellations.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours in Cairns set the tone for your trip.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration and Customs:
Clear efficiently. Remember to declare any biosecurity risks on your Incoming Passenger Card.
2
Luggage Collection:
Collect your luggage from the baggage claim area.
3
Transfer to Accommodation:
Proceed to your chosen transport for transfer to your hotel.

Orientation Strategies

Currency Access:
Locate the nearest ATM to withdraw local currency.
Local SIM Card:
Purchase a local SIM card if you did not arrange roaming.
Visitor Information:
Find the Cairns Visitor Information Centre for maps and advice.

Initial Purchases & Transport

Currency & Essentials

Withdraw Australian currency from an ATM or use currency exchange.

Purchase bottled water, snacks, or any immediate necessities.

Airport to Accommodation

If not pre-booked, arrange a shuttle, taxi, or rideshare from Cairns Airport to your hotel.

Look for designated pick-up areas outside the terminals.

City Orientation

Familiarize yourself with the layout of the Esplanade and the city center.

Locate landmarks near your lodging.

Quick Tip for Arrival

Ensure you have some Australian dollars or an activated travel card ready for immediate small purchases or transport upon landing.

Departure Preparation

A smooth departure closes the Cairns experience positively.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

Purchase souvenirs in advance to avoid rushing on departure day.
For large items, inquire about shipping options and customs regulations for your home country.
Keep receipts for any high-value goods for potential VAT refunds.
Check luggage weight limits before packing final purchases.

VAT Refund Procedures TRS

Australia has a Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) for GST and WET on goods taken out of the country.
A minimum spend of AUD $300 from one retailer applies.
Generally, goods for refund must be carried as hand luggage (with some exceptions).
Process the refund at the airport before your departure.

Pre-Departure Timing

Recommended Times

Allow ample time for airport transfer, check-in, and security procedures.
For international flights, arrive 3 hours prior to departure.
For domestic flights, arrive 1-2 hours prior.
If you rented a car, return it with a full fuel tank.

Return Trip Preparation

Confirm all your onward travel bookings.
Ensure all personal belongings are packed.
Dispose of any waste responsibly.
Lock up your accommodation if applicable.

Final Check

Before leaving your accommodation, do one final sweep for forgotten items.

Double-check that all your travel documents are easily accessible.

Pre-Trip Checklist