Nova Iguacu Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Essential Preparations

Plan your journey to Nova Iguaçu smoothly with these steps.

Chronological Planning Timeline

A step-by-step guide to prepare for your trip effectively.

1

Three Months Ahead

Passport & Visa

Check validity (6+ months). Research and apply for Brazil visa if needed.

Book Flights

Reserve flights abroad to Rio de Janeiro (GIG or SDU).

Accommodation

Begin researching and booking your Nova Iguaçu lodging for your stay.

2

One Month Ahead

Accommodation Finalize

Confirm accommodation bookings in Nova Iguaçu and any day trips.

Travel Insurance

Arrange comprehensive Travel insurance coverage.

Health & Banking

Check vaccinations (Yellow Fever). Inform bank/credit card companies.

3

One Week Ahead

Confirmations

Reconfirm all flights, accommodation, and tour reservations.

Packing & Funds

Pack using the guide. Obtain initial local currency or plan ATM withdrawal.

Digital & Home Prep

Download offline maps/apps. Copy documents. Arrange home care (pets, mail).

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these elements well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Reservations

Flights: International and any domestic flights for your journey.
Accommodation: Hotels or guesthouses in Nova Iguaçu for your stay.
Rio Attractions: For popular sites in Rio, book tickets online in advance.

Pre-Trip Research

A understanding of your destination for a more meaningful experience.

Important Knowledge

Learn basic Portuguese phrases for communication.
Read up on local customs and etiquette to show courtesy.
Review safety tips for urban areas in Brazil for your protection.
Understand the public transport system (SuperVia, buses) for Nova Iguaçu and Rio.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Steps to safeguard your home while you are away.

Security

Secure your home: Lock windows, set alarms.
Stop mail or arrange for a neighbor to collect it.
Arrange for pet care if needed for your animals.
Water plants or arrange for their care.

Financials & Contacts

Pay bills that will come due during your absence.
Inform a trusted contact of your itinerary details.
Leave emergency funds or get in touch withs for house-sitters.
Turn off unnecessary lights or appliances.

Digital Safety

Backup important data from your devices.
Set up email auto-replies if you plan to be offline.
Review security settings on smart home devices.
Unplug electronics to save energy and protect from surges.

Document Organization

Create a physical and digital folder for all your confirmations of your bookings and important documents for easy access.

Arrival Checklist

These steps help ensure a smooth transition upon your arrival in Brazil.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration
Clear immigration by presenting your passport and any required visa paperwork.
2
Luggage
Collect your luggage from the baggage claim area upon arrival.
3
Customs
Clear customs procedures efficiently for entry into Brazil.

Orientation Strategies & Currency

Address Details
Have your accommodation address clearly written down with a phone number.
Local SIM Card
If planned, purchase a local SIM card at the airport or in Nova Iguaçu.
Initial Currency
Obtain some local currency (Brazilian Reals) from an ATM or exchange counter.

Transportation from Entry Point to Accommodation

Pre-arranged Transfers

Use a pre-arranged airport transfer if you booked one for convenience.

This option often delivers the most direct and stress-free journey.

Ride-sharing / Official Taxis

Use ride-sharing apps (Uber, 99) or authorized airport cabs for your journey.

Confirm the estimated fare to Nova Iguaçu before starting your trip.

Public Transport

If on a budget, use the BRT/Metro/bus combination from GIG or connect from SDU to SuperVia.

Public transport can be challenging with luggage but has a cost-effective choice.

Accommodation Confirmation

Confirm your accommodation booking before you leave the airport. This helps avoid any last-minute surprises or confusion.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure from Nova Iguaçu to ensure a stress-free journey home.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

Purchase in Advance: Buy souvenirs a few days before your departure.
Shipping: If you bought large items, inquire about international shipping costs.
VAT Refund Procedures: Brazil does not have a national VAT refund system for tourists.
Be aware of customs regulations for items entering your home country.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

Airport Travel: Allow ample time for travel from Nova Iguaçu to GIG or SDU.
Traffic can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours.
Arriving At the airport: Arrive 2-3 hours before domestic flights, 3-4 hours before international.
Put in a buffer of at least an hour to estimated travel times.

Return Trip Preparation

Ensure a seamless journey back home with these pointers.

Checks

Flight Details:Reconfirm departure time, terminal, gate 24 hours prior.
Baggage Rules:Pack according to airline allowances to avoid fees.
Documents:Have all the essential travel documents (passport, boarding pass) accessible.
Home Contact:Notify family or friends of your return itinerary.

Accommodation Checkout

Smooth Checkout: Plan for an efficient departure from your lodging.
Settle Bills: Ensure any outstanding bills or charges are paid in full.
Return Keys: Hand over all keys or access cards as instructed.
Room Condition: Leave your room tidy as a courtesy.

Smooth Checkout

Check out from your accommodation smoothly. Settle any outstanding bills and return keys.

This helps avoid any issues or additional charges after your departure.

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