Your Trip Checklist: Saint John

Pre-Trip Organization Steps

A structured approach to planning your journey.

Major Planning Stages

Steps to take at different intervals before your departure.

+ Months Prior

Passport & Visa Check

Apply for or renew your passport. Research and apply for any visa or eTA.

Flight & Accommodation

Book flights and accommodation, specifically for peak season.

Travel Insurance & Health

Research and purchase travel insurance. Consult your doctor for vaccinations.

Month Prior

Confirm Bookings

Confirm all flight, accommodation, and tour bookings.

Home & Pet Care

Arrange for pet care or house-sitting if applicable.

Financial & Connectivity

Inform credit card companies of travel plans (optional). Consider a local SIM/eSIM.

Week Prior

Packing & Documents

Pack main luggage, considering Saint John's variable weather. Organize essential documents (copies).

Electronics & Transfers

Charge all electronics. Arrange airport transfers if a car is not rented.

Currency & Weather

Confirm currency exchange plans. Check the Saint John weather forecast.

Critical Advance Bookings

Secure these reservations early for peace of mind.

Items to Secure

Flights, especially during peak travel times.
Accommodation for your stay.
Car rental, if ground transport is a requirement.
Popular whale watching tours often sell out.

Prioritize Research

Pre-trip research will enhance your Saint John experience.

Areas to Explore

Learn about Saint John's Loyalist history.
Understand the Bay of Fundy tides.
Familiarize yourself with Canadian tipping customs.
Review local driving regulations.

Home Readiness Before Your Trip

Mail & Subscriptions

Notify the post office for mail hold.
Stop newspaper delivery.
Check other regular deliveries.
Temporarily suspend services as needed.

Plant & Pet Care

Water indoor plants thoroughly.
Arrange for a neighbor or service for plants.
Secure pet sitting or boarding.
Ensure pets have adequate food and water plans.

Home Safety & Security

Secure all windows and doors.
Use timers for lights to deter intruders.
Engage your security system.
Empty all trash bins.

Digital Document Folder

A digital folder on your phone or cloud storage containing copies of all reservations and documents is recommended.

Arrival & Departure Maneuvers

These initial and final steps promote a smooth transition for your journey.

Initial Arrival Procedures

1
Customs & Luggage:
Navigate through immigration and customs, then collect your luggage.
2
Connectivity:
Connect to airport Wi-Fi or activate your local SIM card.
3
Transport:
Locate your pre-arranged transportation or a taxi stand.

Orientation & First Buys

Bags Away:
Go directly to your accommodation to drop off your bags.
Local Information:
Find the Saint John Visitor Information Centre for maps and advice.
Local Currency:
Withdraw Canadian Dollars from an ATM or use a credit card for initial purchases.

Departure Checklist

Souvenirs & Shipping

Mail larger souvenirs from a Canada Post office.

Keep receipts for customs declarations as required.

VAT & Returns

Canada lacks a general tourist VAT refund program.

Ensure all rental items are returned properly.

Departure Timing

Confirm flight, ferry, or bus departure times.

Allow plenty of time for travel to the airport or terminal.

Final Packing Tip

Pack all belongings, confirm no prohibited items are in carry-on or checked luggage, and dispose of perishable food items.

Day Before Departure

A few important steps on the eve of your journey home.

Immediate Tasks

Re-check flight status or departure times.
Complete final packing of toiletries and last-minute items.
Download offline maps or apps.
Ensure all electronics are fully charged.

Return Journey Logistics

Return your rental car with a full tank.
Weigh your luggage to avoid excess fees.
Do a final sweep of your accommodation for forgotten items.
Notify family or friends of your safe return.

Departure Reminders

Timelines to consider for a stress-free exit.

Check-in Window

Domestic Flights:Minimum 90 minutes prior
Transborder (U.S.) Flights:Minimum 2 hours prior
International Flights:Check airline recommendations
Peak Times:Allow extra time

Post-Trip Tidying

Dispose of any perishable food items before checking out.
Sort recyclables according to local guidelines.
Leave your accommodation tidy for the next guests.
Turn off all lights and appliances.

Final Thought

A smooth departure rounds off a pleasant journey.

Preparation minimizes stress, leaving you with positive memories.

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