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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Cameroon

Essential Preparations

Thoughtful preparation makes for a smoother Douala adventure.

Your Journey Timeline

A chronological guide to organize your trip effectively.

1

Three Months Before

Passport & Visa

Confirm validity (6+ months); begin application process.

Health Consult

Consult a travel health professional for vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis.

Flights & Insurance

Book international flights and consider travel insurance. (World Nomads)

2

One Month Prior

Visa & Bookings

Confirm visa approval; book main accommodations and day trips.

Required Vaccinations

Obtain required vaccinations, including Yellow Fever.

Driving Permit

Obtain an International Driving Permit if you plan to drive.

3

One Week Out

Financial Notes

Inform bank of travel; plan currency exchange or ATM withdrawals.

Digital Prep

Download offline maps and translation apps.

Packing & Documents

Make copies of documents; pack considering climate and cultural norms. (Eagle Creek)

Home Preparations

Before you leave, secure your home and arrange for its care.

Tasks

  • Inform family and friends of your travel itinerary.
  • Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
  • Organize pet care or house-sitting services.
  • Ensure all recurring bills are paid.

Pre-Trip Research

Gain insights before your journey for a smoother experience.

Essential Learning

  • Deep dive into health and safety warnings from your government's travel advisory.
  • Familiarize yourself with basic French phrases.
  • Read about Cameroonian culture and local etiquette.
  • Understand local laws and customs.

Document Checklist

Ensure all your documents are prepared and accessible.

Travel ID

  • Valid Passport
  • Entry Visa
  • Driver's License/ID
  • Flight Itinerary

Health Records

  • Yellow Fever Certificate
  • Travel Insurance Policy
  • Prescription Information
  • Emergency Contacts

Financial & Copies

  • Credit/Debit Cards
  • Local Currency
  • Digital Copies of Docs
  • Physical Copies of Docs

Smart Tip

Always double-check visa and entry requirements as they can change.

Arrival Checklist

Follow these steps immediately upon arrival to settle in smoothly.

First Steps

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs:

    Clear immigration and customs with passport and visa.

  • 2
    Luggage Collection:

    Collect your luggage from the carousel.

  • 3
    Health Certificate:

    Present your Yellow Fever vaccination certificate.

Arrival Logistics

  • Airport Transport:

    Locate pre-arranged transport or negotiate taxi fare.

  • Check-in:

    Settle into your accommodation.

  • Local Connectivity:

    Acquire a local SIM card for communication.

Initial Settling

Currency Exchange

Exchange some cash at the airport or a local bank.

Consider withdrawing from an ATM for local currency.

Initial Purchases

Purchase bottled water as your first essential item.

Stock up on any immediate necessities.

Neighborhood Orientation

Familiarize yourself with your immediate accommodation area.

Locate nearby eateries or convenience stores.

Arrival Assurance

A well-planned arrival sets a positive tone for your entire journey.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure to avoid last-minute rushing and ensure a smooth exit.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Allow time for last-minute souvenir shopping.
  • If shipping items, do so well in advance of departure.
  • Understand local customs procedures for exports.
  • Cameroon does not have a widely implemented VAT refund scheme.

Airport Timing

  • Arrive at Douala International Airport (DLA) at least 3 hours before international flights.
  • Factor in potential traffic congestion on your way to the airport.
  • Pack carefully to meet luggage weight limits.
  • Reconfirm your departure flights the day before.

Final Security Checks

Ensure you are aware of all security requirements before heading to the airport.

Security Reminders

  • Check for any last-minute travel advisories.
  • Ensure no prohibited items are in your luggage.
  • Have all travel documents readily accessible.
  • Be prepared for thorough security screenings.

Digital Disconnect

  • Consider disconnecting from public Wi-Fi networks prior to leaving.
  • Remove local SIM card if not keeping the number.
  • Back up any new photos or documents to cloud storage.
  • Log out of personal accounts on public computers.

Departure Reminder

Ensure all your affairs are in order before heading to the airport.