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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

British Virgin Islands

Essential Preparations

Follow a chronological timeline to spread out your planning tasks.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Break down your planning into manageable phases.

1

-6 Months Before

Passport & Visa

Confirm your passport validity. It must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended return date. Renew it if needed. Check visa requirements for your nationality. If a visa is necessary, begin the application process immediately.

Flights & Accommodation

Book flights, especially if traveling during high season (December-April) or around major holidays. Book your accommodation, notably if you desire popular resorts or specific private villas. These can book out far in advance.

Travel Insurance

Research Travel insurance options and acquire a comprehensive policy. This policy covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. If chartering a yacht, finalize your booking and crew arrangements.

2

-2 Months Before

Local Bookings

Book your rental car (if desired), especially if you want a specific vehicle type like a Jeep. Book any essential tours or activities, like specific dive trips or private boat charters.

Home & Health

Arrange pet sitting or house sitting if you have pets or a home to manage. Check recommended vaccinations with your doctor or a travel clinic. Get any necessary shots.

3

-2 Weeks Before

Final Confirmations

Confirm all reservations: flights, accommodation, car rental, and any pre-booked tours. Reconfirm ferry transfers if applicable. Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans. This averts security flags and card suspension during your absence.

Documents & Gear

Make multiple copies (digital and physical) of all important documents: passport, visa, flight itinerary, hotel confirmations, insurance policy. Keep copies separate from the originals. Pack a basic Travel first aid kit with any necessary prescription medications.

Electronics & Apps

Charge all electronic devices and Portable power banks. Download offline maps and practical apps.

Required Advance Bookings

Flights, accommodation (especially popular villas or resorts), and car rentals during peak season are typically required to book well in advance due to limited availability.

Booking Essentials

  • Book flights well in advance for peak travel periods.
  • Secure popular resorts or private villas early.
  • Reserve your rental car, notably if seeking a specific vehicle type.
  • Finalize yacht charters and crew arrangements if applicable.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Reading about the destination before your trip.

  • Read about BVI culture, history, and marine life.
  • Research local customs and etiquette for respectful interactions.

Arrival Checklist

These steps assist in a smooth settling-in upon reaching Virgin Gorda.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • Clear immigration and customs at your point of entry.
  • Collect any checked luggage efficiently.
  • Locate your pre-arranged transfer or the taxi stand.

Orientation Strategies

  • Familiarize yourself with Spanish Town's layout.
  • Get a local map and orient yourself to the island's main roads.

Currency & Purchases

  • No currency exchange needed if you have USD. ATMs are available.
  • Consider a small grocery run for immediate needs.
  • If flying into EIS, verify your transfer to VIJ or the ferry terminal.
  • From Virgin Gorda ferry dock or VIJ airport, taxis are available.

Important Tip

Create digital copies of all your documents and store them in a cloud service. This creates a backup in case of loss or theft.

Departure Preparation

Plan for a smooth departure from Virgin Gorda.

Departure Logistics

  • Souvenir and Shipping

    If you plan to purchase large souvenirs, inquire about shipping options with the vendors in advance. Be aware of any customs regulations or duties that might apply in your home country.

  • VAT Refund Procedures

    The BVI does not have a Value Added Tax (VAT) system providing tourist refunds.

  • Pre-Departure Timing

    Allow ample time for transfers between Virgin Gorda and Tortola if you are flying internationally from EIS. Ferry schedules can sometimes experience minor delays. Arrive at the airport (EIS or VIJ) or ferry terminal well in advance of your departure time, typically 2 hours for international flights and 30-45 minutes for inter-island ferries/flights.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Reconfirm Bookings

    Reconfirm your return flights or ferry bookings.

  • Documents & Packing

    Verify all necessary documents align for departure from the BVI and entry to your next destination. Pack liquids according to airline regulations for carry-on luggage.

Departure Reminder

Always allocate extra time for inter-island transfers and airport check-ins to account for "island time" delays.