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Guarulhos Travel Checklist

Guarulhos Travel Checklist

Guarulhos Sao Paulo, Brazil Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Follow this timeline for major tasks.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Structured steps for a stress-free trip.

1

+ Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check validity (6+ months beyond stay).

Book Major Flights

Secure international legs early.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive World Nomads travel insurance.

2

Month Before

Accommodations

Book hotels or apartments.

Basic Itinerary

Outline desired attractions and activities.

Local Phrases

Begin learning basic Portuguese with Babbel.

3

Week Before

Confirmations

Verify all reservations (flights, accommodation, tours).

Pack Smart

Pack considering climate and activities. Shop Eagle Creek for organizers.

Bank Notification

Notify banks and your credit card providers about your travel plans.

Required Advance Bookings

Book flights, popular hotels, high-demand tours, and specific restaurant make reservations long beforehand, especially during peak season or holidays.

Booking Checklist

  • Flights
  • Popular Hotels
  • High-Demand Tours
  • Restaurant Reservations

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Familiarize yourself with local customs, safety tips, and public transit choices. Watch documentaries or read books about Brazil to gain cultural insight.

Research Focus

  • Local Customs
  • Safety Tips
  • Public Transport
  • Cultural Insights

Home Preparation Before Departure

Arrange for pet care, hold mail, notify trusted neighbors of your absence, and secure your home (lock windows, set alarms). Turn off unnecessary electronics and appliances.

Pet Care

  • Arrange professional pet care.
  • Ensure pets are fed and walked.
  • Provide emergency contacts for pet sitters.
  • Confirm pet comfort during your absence.

Mail & Neighbors

  • Hold mail delivery or ask a neighbor to collect.
  • Notify trusted neighbors of your travel dates.
  • Arrange for trash collection if needed.
  • Consider plant watering arrangements.

Utilities & Security

  • Unplug unnecessary electronics and appliances.
  • Secure your home (lock windows, set alarms).
  • Use timers for lights to deter intruders.
  • Double-check all entry points.

Important Reminder

Make digital copies of your passport, visa, and important documents. Store them in a secure cloud service and email them to yourself. This proves helpful if originals are lost or stolen.

Arrival Checklist

These first steps ensure a smooth transition upon landing.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Clear Immigration

    Provide your passport and visa.

  • 2
    Luggage & Money

    Collect bags, exchange or ATM for cash.

  • 3
    Connectivity

    Purchase local SIM or use eSIM.

Orientation Strategies

  • Tourist Information

    Locate desk at GRU Airport.

  • Local Maps

    Obtain Guarulhos and São Paulo maps.

  • Offline Navigation

    Use downloaded offline maps for initial navigation.

Currency Exchange and Initial Purchases

Initial Cash

Exchange a small amount at the airport for immediate needs.

ATMs generally offer better exchange rates later.

Bilhete Único

Purchase if planning to use São Paulo's public transport extensively.

A convenient card for multiple journeys.

Airport Transport

Pre-arrange transfers or use reputable airport taxi services/ride-sharing apps.

Confirm your destination address with the driver.

Getting to Your Stay

Pre-arrange transfers or use reputable airport taxi services/ride-sharing apps. Confirm your destination address and hotel name with the driver.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for a stress-free departure.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

  • Purchase souvenirs in advance.
  • Confirm shipping regulations and costs.
  • Keep receipts for high-value items.
  • Brazil has no generalized VAT refund system.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

  • Arrive 3 hours for international flights.
  • Arrive 2 hours for domestic flights.
  • Allow extra time for potential traffic.
  • Confirm flight status before heading out.

Return Trip Essentials

Pack essential items for your carry-on bag and establish yourself any outstanding bills.

Checklist

  • Confirm flight status
  • Pack carry-on essentials
  • Settle outstanding bills
  • Passport and boarding pass ready

Departure Logistics

  • Ensure passport is readily accessible.
  • Keep boarding pass handy.
  • Review any last-minute check-out procedures.
  • Confirm transport to the airport.

Smooth Journey Home

Confirm flight status, pack essential items for your carry-on bag, and settle any outstanding bills (hotel, tours).

Ensure your passport and boarding pass are readily accessible.

Guarulhos Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation