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What to Pack for Sao Bernardo Do Campo

What to Pack for Sao Bernardo Do Campo

Sao Bernardo Do Campo Sao Paulo, Brazil Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports

São Bernardo do Campo relies on airports in the São Paulo Metropolitan Area for air travel.

Airport List

  • São Paulo/Guarulhos (GRU): Brazil's largest international airport, 40-50 km away.
  • São Paulo/Congonhas (CGH): mainly domestic flights, 20-25 km away, closer to city.
  • Viracopos (VCP) in Campinas: Growing international/domestic hub, 90-100 km away.

Airlines & Routes

Major international airlines connect GRU to global hubs. Brazilian domestic airlines serve CGH and VCP, connecting to cities across Brazil.

Flight Details

  • GRU: Direct flights from North America, Europe, Africa, South America.
  • CGH: LATAM, GOL, Azul for domestic travel.
  • Seasonal Price Fluctuation: Higher Dec-Feb, Jul; lower Apr-Jun, Sep-Nov.

Airport Facilities

GRU offers extensive facilities including duty-free, restaurants, lounges, car rental. CGH and VCP modern amenities.

Transfers from GRU

Taxis (R$150-250), Ride-sharing (R$100-200). No direct bus to São Bernardo do Campo; connect using São Paulo.

Transfers from CGH

Taxis (R$70-120), Ride-sharing (R$50-100). Local buses with connections to São Bernardo do Campo.

Transfer Insights

Transfer from VCP

  • Taxis/Ride-sharing: Long, expensive (R$250-400+).
  • Executive Buses: To São Paulo city, then intercity bus.
  • Allow 1.5-2 hours for travel.
  • Consider traffic when planning.

Airport Transfer Tips

  • Ride-sharing often cheaper than taxis.
  • Confirm route and fare before starting.
  • Public transport from GRU/CGH involves multiple connections, time-consuming.
  • Account for luggage space in transfers.

Airline & Flight Search

Flight Deals

Dollar Flight Club for discounted flight alerts.

Compare Flights

Skyscanner for comparing prices across airlines.

Booking Advice

Book early for better deals, especially during high season.

Land Transportation

Long-Distance Buses

São Bernardo do Campo has a central bus terminal, the Terminal Rodoviário of Saint Bernardo do Campo. It connections to other cities in São Paulo state and major cities across Brazil.

Bus Travel Details

  • Terminal Rodoviário de SBC: Central hub.
  • Companies: Cometa, Viação 1001, Itapemirim.
  • Routes: Cities on the coast, ABC region, other Brazilian cities.

Self-Driving

Renting a car offers flexibility for exploring, but traffic and road conditions in the São Paulo City Area are a factor.

Driving Info

  • Requirements: Valid national license or IDP, minimum 18 years old, credit card.
  • Road Conditions: Major highways (Anchieta, Imigrantes) well-maintained; inner-city roads vary.
  • Safety: Heavy traffic, aggressive driving, look for speed bumps. Lock doors, windows up.

Car Rental Options

Major international chains (Hertz, Avis, Budget) and local companies (Localiza, Unidas) have offices at airports. Pre-booking highly recommended.

Rental Tips

  • Compare rates at DiscoverCars.com.
  • Purchase comprehensive insurance.
  • Book in advance for best selection.

Sea/River Travel

Sea or river travel is not a direct way to São Bernardo do Campo, as it is an inland city. The closest major port is Santos.

Port Connections

  • Santos Port: 50-60 km away, serves cruise ships.
  • From Santos: Taxis, ride-sharing, intercity buses to SBC.
  • No direct river transportation.

Driving Alerts

  • Keep car doors locked and windows up in traffic.
  • Expect tolls on major highways; have cash or E-ZPass.
  • Brazilian traffic laws are strictly enforced.
  • Carjacking can occur in the wider metropolitan area.
  • Avoid driving at night in unfamiliar areas.
  • Heavy traffic during peak hours, plan routes accordingly.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes beyond airline ticket price. Departure procedures vary by transport type.

Departure Timing

  • International Flights (GRU): Arrive 3-4 hours prior.
  • Domestic Flights (CGH): Arrive 1.5-2 hours prior.
  • Bus Terminal: Arrive 30-60 minutes prior.

Terminal Facilities

Airports offer amenities for departing travelers, while coach terminals facilities for a comfortable wait.

Amenities

  • GRU: Lounges, duty-free, shops, restaurants, currency exchange.
  • CGH: Shops and a food court.
  • SBC Bus Terminal: Waiting areas, restrooms, small shops, cafes.

Traffic Awareness

Always consider São Paulo's heavy traffic when planning your time it takes to get to airports or terminals.

Time Buffers

Build in extra travel time, especially during weekdays and peak hours, to avoid delays.

Check-in Options

Make use of online check-in when possible to save time at the airport or bus terminal.

Planning Your Departure

Pre-Departure Checklist

Ensure all documents are ready and you understand your route to the airport/terminal.

Actions

  • Passport and travel documents easily accessible.
  • Check luggage allowance for your flight.
  • Settle all hotel bills.
  • Confirm transportation to departure point.

Airport Navigation

Once at the airport, follow signage for your airline and gate. Utilize available facilities.

Airport Experience

  • Currency exchange for any remaining local currency.
  • Security checks are standard; prepare liquids and electronics.
  • Be mindful of queues, especially at immigration.

Additional Departure Notes

Lost & Found

Contact airport or bus terminal administration immediately for lost items.

Special Assistance

Arrange special assistance with your airline or bus company in advance.

Feedback

Consider leaving feedback on your travel experience.

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