Strategic Pre-Trip Steps: St Johns

Comprehensive Planning Timeline

Follow this guide to stay organized leading up to your St. John's adventure.

Your Trip Countdown

actions to undertake at different stages of your planning.

Months Ahead

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity; apply for visa or eTA if needed.

Flights & Stays

Book flights and accommodation, especially for peak season.

Travel Insurance

Consider comprehensive travel insurance coverage.

Month Ahead

Car Rental

Book a car if exploring beyond St. John's core.

Major Tours

Book popular tours like whale watching, especially for summer.

Itinerary Planning

Outline attractions and activities for your daily schedule.

Week Ahead

Confirm Bookings

Verify flights, accommodation, car rentals, and tours.

Pack Essentials

Pack clothing and items as guided by our packing section.

Currency & Bank

Obtain Canadian currency or notify your bank of travel.

Booking & Research

Advance arrangements reduce last-minute stress.

Pre-trip Deep Dive

Required Bookings: Flights, accommodation, and car rentals require advance booking, especially during high season. Popular boat tours (whale/iceberg/puffin) benefit from early reservation.
Research Recommendations: Read about Newfoundland's history and culture. Observe photos and videos to sense the landscape and character of St. John's. Understand local weather patterns.
Home Readiness: Secure your home. Arrange for mail or bill payments. Inform a trusted person of your itinerary and emergency contacts.
Pet/House Sitting: Arrange for care of pets or your home during your absence.

Seamless Planning

Streamline your journey with these pointers.

Practicalities

Financial Preparedness: Capital One Travel credit cards can be helpful for rewards. Capital One Travel
Efficient Packing: Eagle Creek products can assist with organizing your luggage. Eagle Creek
Digital Security: A VPN like NordVPN keeps your online activity secure. NordVPN
Local Phrases: Babbel language app can introduce you to local colloquialisms. Babbel

Smart Travel Tactics

Optimize your journey with thoughtful consideration.

Health Checklist

Vaccinations: Consult your doctor for recommended travel vaccinations.
Prescriptions: Carry sufficient medication with a doctor's note.
Medical Records: Digital copies of important medical records.
Insurance Card: Keep your travel insurance card readily accessible.

Connectivity & Power

Local SIM Card: Consider purchasing a local SIM or eSIM for data.
Adapters: Canada uses Type A/B plugs; check if you need an adapter.
Power Bank: A portable power bank for electronic devices.
Headphones: For flights or relaxing moments.

Safety & Awareness

Emergency Contacts: Program local emergency numbers into your phone.
Identity Protection: Be mindful of personal information in public.
Secure Gear: Keep valuable camera equipment and electronics secure.
Day Bag: A comfortable day bag for excursions.

Documentation Check

Verify passport validity and visa/eTA needs well in advance to avoid last-minute issues. A smooth entry begins with proper documentation.

Arrival in St. John's

Smooth entry and efficient orientation in St. John's.

Airport Clearance

Clear customs and immigration at St. John's International Airport (YYT).

Visitor Centre

Locate the Visitor Information Centre for maps and local advice.

Initial Funds

Use an airport ATM for Canadian dollars; consider a local SIM.

First Moments in the City

Welcome & Orientation

First Steps: Clear customs and immigration at St. John's International Airport (YYT). The process generally flows smoothly for tourists.
Information Hub: Find the Visitor Information Centre at the airport or downtown. Collect maps, brochures, and ask staff for current local insights and events.
Initial Funds: Use an airport ATM for Canadian dollars, or exchange a small amount of cash. Acquire immediate necessities like a local SIM card if not already done.

Transit to Accommodation

Airport Transfer: Pre-arrange your airport transfer. Taxis and ride-share services are readily available.
Rental Car Pickup: Collect your pre-booked rental car upon arrival.
Navigation: Use your mapping app to guide you to your accommodation or rely on taxi drivers.

Local Weather Note

St. John's weather changes rapidly. Layered clothing and rain gear are essential, even in summer. Always be ready for shifts.

Departure from St. John's

Organize your departure for a relaxed and timely exit from the city.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs a day or two before departure to avoid last-minute rush.
Check your airline's luggage weight limits to avoid excess baggage fees.
If you need to ship items home, inquire at Canada Post or local courier services.
Consider local artisan shops for unique finds and mementos.

Airport & Documents

Arrive at St. John's International Airport (YYT) 1.5 to 2 hours for domestic flights.
For international flights, allow 2 to 3 hours before your scheduled departure. This provides ample time for check-in and security screening.
Confirm your return flight details 24-48 hours before departure.
Ensure you have all necessary documents ready for your journey home.

Financial Wrap-up

Ensure all financial loose ends are tied.

Final Checks

Spend remaining local currency or convert if needed.
Collect any final receipts for expense tracking.
Ensure all local tabs or bills are settled.
Return rental items like cars or special equipment.

Future Connections

Consider leaving feedback for accommodations or tours.
Share your St. John's experience on social media.
Save local contacts or business cards for future reference.
Reflect on your favorite moments and discoveries.

Final Document Review

Before leaving your accommodation, perform a thorough check for all travel documents, electronics, and personal belongings.

Double-check passports, tickets, and wallets.

Strategic Pre-Trip Steps