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Sao Paulo Travel Checklist

Sao Paulo Travel Checklist

Sao Paulo Brazil Travel Guide

Your Preparation Timeline

Deliberate organization ensures a seamless São Paulo adventure.

Comprehensive Pre-Trip Guide

A structured approach to your travel preparations.

3

Three Months Before

Passport Validity

Check your passport validity for six months beyond your return date.

Visa Requirements

Research and apply for an e-visa if your nationality requires one.

Flight & Accommodation

Book international flights and your main accommodation.

1

One Month Before

Confirm Bookings

Confirm all flight and accommodation reservations.

Travel Insurance

Arrange comprehensive travel insurance. World Nomads: Get a quote

Itinerary & Language

Plan a detailed itinerary and begin learning basic Portuguese phrases. Babbel: Start learning

1

One Week Before

Pack & Documents

Pack for the climate-appropriate clothing and assemble essential documents.

Bank & Apps

Let your bank know you're traveling and load required apps onon your phone.

Emergency Contacts

Print a list of emergency contacts, local numbers, and embassy.

Advance Bookings & Research

Securing elements ahead of time.

Smart Pre-trip Actions

  • Book international flights early for ideal prices.
  • Secure your hotels or apartment rentals.
  • Apply for and obtain your e-visa if your nationality requires it.
  • Reserve popular tours, special events, or shows, especially during peak season.

Home Preparation & Local Insights

Home Front Checklist

  • Arrange for pet care or house sitting.
  • Hold mail or newspaper delivery.
  • Pay any upcoming bills.
  • Inform family or friends of your schedule and who to ring in an urgent situation.

Destination Knowledge & Connectivity

Pre-trip research enhances your appreciation and navigation skills.

Local Insights

  • Familiarize yourself with local customs and safety tips.
  • Understand the public transport system.
  • Read up on São Paulo's history and cultural diversity.
  • Study maps of neighborhoods you plan to visit.

Connectivity & Tech

  • Purchase a Type N power adapter and check voltage compatibility.
  • Plan for a local SIM or eSIM for cellular data upon arrival. NordVPN: Secure your connection
  • Back up important documents to cloud storage.
  • Save emergency numbers in your phone and as print copies.

Packing Essentials

  • Pack climate-appropriate-appropriate clothing.
  • Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
  • Consider packing cubes for organization. Eagle Creek: Shop packing organizers
  • An umbrella or light rain jacket is useful.

Important Travel Advisory

Always double-check visa requirements and passport validity well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.

Smooth Arrival in São Paulo

A seamless transition when the plane lands for a relaxed start to your travels.

Initial Arrival Steps

  • 1
    Clear Immigration and Customs:

    Complete all necessary entry procedures.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage:

    Retrieve your checked bags from the baggage claim.

  • 3
    Airport Transfer:

    Proceed to your pre-arranged or chosen transfer option.

Getting Oriented

  • Local SIM/Data:

    Get a local SIM card or activate international roaming/eSIM plan.

  • Locate Accommodation:

    Find your lodging using a reliable navigation app.

  • Public Transport Hubs:

    Familiarize yourself with the nearest metro station or bus stops.

Financial & Connectivity Setup

Currency Exchange

Exchange a small amount of currency at the airport for immediate needs.

Expect less favorable rates; use city ATMs for better rates once settled.

Bilhete Único

Acquire and load a Bilhete Único card for public transport.

This card here streamlines your city travel and offers discounted transfers.

Mobile Data

Ensure your mobile data is working for finding your way and staying in touch.

This allows for real-time updates and essential app use.

Transportation Safety

Always use official airport taxis or reputable ride-sharing apps, confirming vehicle and driver details before entering.

Departure Preparations

Making sure of a relaxed and organized conclusion to your São Paulo journey.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Plan your souvenir purchases around luggage limits.
  • Arrange international shipping well in advance if needed.
  • Save all receipts for customs declarations.
  • Be aware that international shipping from Brazil can be expensive and slow.

Departure Timing

  • Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before an international flight.
  • Arrive 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight.
  • Factor in São Paulo's notoriously heavy and unpredictable traffic.
  • Allow ample extra time for travel to the airport or bus terminal.

No VAT Refund

Important Tax Information

VAT Refund Clarity

  • Brazil does not have a general VAT (ICMS) refund scheme for travelers on goods.No VAT Refund
  • This applies to all goods purchased in Brazil.Tax rules
  • Tourists cannot claim tax back on purchases.No tourist refunds
  • This information is valid at the time of publication.Current policy

Return Journey Essentials

  • Confirm your return flight details or bus schedule.
  • Pack strategically, leaving space for any souvenirs you acquired.
  • Ensure all travel documents (passport, boarding pass) are easily accessible.
  • Inform family or friends of your expected arrival time back home.

Traffic Alert

Allow generous time for airport transfers due to São Paulo's traffic, especially for international flights.

Traffic conditions can be unpredictable, making early departure a wise strategy.

Sao Paulo Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation