Pre-Trip Checklist: Belo Horizonte

Essential Preparations

Follow this chronological timeline for a seamless journey.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Steps to take leading up to your departure.

+ Months Before

Passport & Visa Check

Confirm passport validity (6+ months) and apply for visa if needed (especially for U.S. Citizens).

Book International Flights

Secure airfare, often cheapest when booked in advance.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance (World Nomads recommended).

Month Before

Accommodation & Transport

Book lodging, domestic flights, and long-distance bus tickets.

Tours & Activities

Book tours or activities requiring advance reservations (e.g., Inhotim).

Bank Notifications

Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates.

Week Before

Final Packing

Pack climate-appropriate clothing and all other essentials.

Document Readiness

Gather all documents; make digital and physical copies, stored separately.

Tech & Money

Download offline maps/apps, plan initial currency exchange, confirm phone unlock.

Required Advance Bookings

Certain bookings are important for smooth travel.

Reservations

Flights, especially international routes.
Accommodation for your entire stay.
Popular day trips (e.g., Inhotim, Ouro Preto tours).
Major events like football matches or concerts.

Pre-Trip Research Suggestions

research enhances your Belo Horizonte visit.

Topics for Exploration

Dive into the city's unique "boteco" culture.
Learn about Belo Horizonte's planned design history.
Explore the architectural significance of Pampulha Modern Ensemble.
A background review enriches your on-site experience.

Home Preparation Checklist

Steps to secure your home before departing.

Communication

Inform family/friends of itinerary.
Share emergency contacts.
Arrange pet care or house-sitting.
Stop mail/newspaper deliveries.

Financial Matters

Pay bills due during your trip.
Ensure automatic payments are set up.
Consider setting up bill pay reminders.
Review your budget for home expenses.

Home Security

Secure all doors and windows.
Set home alarms if available.
Use timers for lights to give a lived-in appearance.
Turn off unnecessary appliances and water taps.

Pre-Trip Confidence

Following these steps can lead to a more relaxed and enjoyable trip, knowing your home affairs are handled.

Arrival Checklist

Steps for a smooth transition upon arrival in Belo Horizonte.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration & Customs:
Clear procedures efficiently.
2
Luggage Retrieval:
Collect your bags from baggage claim.
3
Currency & Connectivity:
Exchange small currency or withdraw cash; purchase a local SIM or connect to Wi-Fi.

Orientation Strategies

Airport Transfer:
Take an official airport transfer or reputable ride-share to your accommodation.
Neighborhood Exploration:
Locate nearby pharmacies, supermarkets, and ATMs.
Familiarize Yourself:
Note convenient routes to local attractions or public transport.

Initial Setup for Your Stay

Currency Exchange

Exchange a small amount for immediate needs upon arrival.

Rely on ATMs for better exchange rates for larger withdrawals.

Power Adapters

Purchase a Travel adapter for Brazil (Type N plug).

Voltage is typically 127V in Belo Horizonte (double-check devices).

Basic Health Kit

Assemble a basic First aid kit for travel.

Include any personal medications you may need.

Smooth Start

These arrival steps contribute to a comfortable and positive start to your Belo Horizonte adventure.

Departure Preparations

Plan for a smooth departure, minimizing stress as your trip concludes.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Allow ample time for souvenir purchases and secure packing.
Consider using Eagle Creek packing organizers for efficiency.
Check luggage weight limits with your airline to avoid fees.
If shipping items, confirm operating hours of Correios or private couriers.

VAT Refunds & Customs

Brazil does not have a general VAT refund scheme for tourists.
No specific procedures are needed for this.
Prepare any customs declarations required for your home country.
Ensure prohibited items are not in your luggage.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allow ample time for airport procedures.

Recommended Arrival at Airport

International flights:3-4 hours prior
Domestic flights:1.5-2 hours prior
Traffic considerations:Factor in rush hour traffic.
Terminal navigation:Allow time for check-in and security.

Return Trip Preparation

Confirm your flight details online.
Check in online if your airline allows it.
Ensure your passport and boarding pass are readily accessible.
Charge all electronic devices before heading to the airport.

Confident Departure

Careful planning for your departure reduces last-minute stress.

It allows for a pleasant conclusion to your Belo Horizonte journey.

Pre-Trip Checklist