Pre-Trip Checklist: Las Terrenas

Essential Preparations Overview

A structured approach to pre-trip tasks ensures a smooth journey.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Break down your preparations into manageable phases for clarity and peace of mind.

Months Before

Passport Validity

Confirm your passport possesses at least six months validity beyond your intended return date. Renew if necessary.

Visa Requirements

Identify entry requirements for your nationality. Most travelers use the E-ticket.

Book Flights

Secure international flights early, especially for high season, for optimal prices.

Month Before

Book Accommodations

Finalize and book your hotel, villa, or guesthouse.

Reserve Major Tours

Book whale watching (if seasonal) or Los Haitises tours, especially for specific dates.

Purchase Travel Insurance

Secure your chosen travel insurance policy from providers like World Nomads.

Week Before

Confirm Reservations

Double-check flight times, accommodation bookings, and tour confirmations.

Complete E-ticket

Complete the Dominican Republic E-ticket Form (mandatory for entry/departure).

Final Pack

Pack climate-appropriate clothing and essentials. Consider organizers from Eagle Creek.

Required Bookings

These reservations confirm your travel foundation.

Reservations

International and domestic flights require advance booking.
Hotels, villas, or guesthouses, especially during peak season, need booking.
Popular tours like whale watching or Los Haitises National Park tours require booking.
Private transfers from the airport benefit from pre-arrangement.

Pre-Trip Research

Informed travelers experience smoother journeys.

Research Areas

Familiarize yourself with local customs and basic etiquette for better interactions.
Check recent reviews for desired restaurants, activities, and tour operators.
Monitor the current weather forecasts for your travel dates for final packing adjustments.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Ensure peace of mind at home while you are away.

Security Measures

Lock all doors and windows.
Set any alarms.
Notify bank/credit card companies of your travel plans.
Ensure all bills due during your absence are paid.

Mail & Utilities

Arrange for a neighbor to collect mail/newspapers.
Alternatively, put a hold on deliveries.
Unplug non-essential electronics to save energy.
Unplug electronics to avert damage from power surges.

Digital Readiness

Download offline maps (Google Maps).
Download translation apps with Spanish language packs.
Confirm apps download and readiness for offline use.
Create digital copies of all important documents.

Share Your Itinerary

Create a shared Google Document with your travel itinerary, booking confirmations, and copies of important documents. Share it with a trusted family member or friend back home.

Arrival Checklist

These steps bring a smooth entry into the Dominican Republic and a comfortable transition to Las Terrenas.

First Steps Upon Arrival

Clear Immigration & Customs:
Present your passport and E-ticket QR code to officials.
Collect Luggage:
Retrieve your bags from the baggage claim area.
Currency & ATM:
Obtain local Pesos for initial expenses; ATMs are available at airports.

Orientation Strategies

Locate Accommodation:
Know the exact address and general location of your hotel or rental.
Familiarize with Neighborhood:
Take a short walk to locate nearby amenities like pharmacies and supermarkets.
Obtain a Local Map:
Whether digital or physical, a map aids orientation.

Transportation & Initial Purchases

Currency Exchange

Exchange some cash at the airport or a local bank/ATM.

Avoid exchanging large amounts at airport kiosks due to unfavorable rates.

Initial Purchases

Purchase bottled water immediately upon arrival.

Tap water is not suitable for drinking in Las Terrenas.

Airport Transfer

Confirm your pre-arranged transfer details.

If using a taxi, negotiate the fare before getting into the vehicle.

Departure Readiness

Allow ample time for your transfer to the airport (especially to SDQ), check-in procedures, and security screening.

Departure Preparation

Final steps for a smooth exit from Las Terrenas.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs a day or two before your departure to avoid rushing.
If you intend to ship items, arrange this well in advance.
Shipping options from Las Terrenas may remain limited or require travel to Santo Domingo.
The Dominican Republic currently does not operate a VAT refund system for tourists on goods purchased. Expect no refund claims.

Return Trip Logistics

Allow ample time for your transfer to the airport and check-in procedures.
Consider potential traffic delays.
For international flights, plan to arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before departure.
Confirm you have completed the departure E-ticket form and have the QR code ready.

Important Document Checks

Ensure all your travel documents are readily available.

Checklist Items

Passport:Checked
E-ticket QR Code (Departure):Ready
Flight Confirmations:Reconfirmed
Boarding Pass:Prepared

Home Security Final Touches

Secure your home: lock all doors and windows, set alarms.
Stop mail/newspaper delivery or arrange collection.
Pay all bills due during your absence.
Unplug non-essential electronics to save energy and avert damage.

Final Confirmation

Reconfirm your flight times and gate information.

Keep your passport and all other travel documents easily accessible for airport procedures.

Pre-Trip Checklist