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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Fiji

Essential Preparations

Start planning well in advance, especially for a trip to a remote destination like Taveuni.

Preparation Timeline

Strategic planning guides your trip from initial ideas to departure.

1

-6 Months Before

Passport & Flights

Confirm passport validity (six months beyond return). Book international flights to Nadi (NAN). Book domestic flights to Matei (TVU) or ferry connections.

Accommodation & Insurance

Book Taveuni accommodation, especially high season. Arrange comprehensive Travel insurance. Check visa requirements and apply as needed.

Health & Entry

Consult your doctor for recommended vaccinations. Obtain any necessary prescription refills. Check local entry health protocols.

2

-2 Months Before

Activity Bookings

Book activities like dive trips or popular tours. These often have limited spots available.

Gear & Documents

Purchase specific gear for your trip. Make photocopies and digital copies of important documents, store them separately.

Financial & Communication

Inform your bank and credit card companies of travel plans. Set up international roaming or local SIM card.

3

Week Before & Home Prep

Final Checks

Confirm all your bookings (flights, accommodation, tours). Pack essential documents in your carry-on. Charge all electronics and power banks.

Currency & Health

Withdraw some Fijian Dollars (FJD) cash. Pack a basic first aid kit. Check the latest weather forecast for Taveuni.

Home Secure

Secure your home: lock windows, stop mail. Arrange for mail collection or pet care if needed. Pay any bills due during your travel dates.

Required Advance Bookings

Certain elements of your trip benefit greatly from early booking.

Reservations

  • International and domestic flights.
  • Accommodation on Taveuni.
  • Dive trips (due to limited boat capacity).
  • Any specific resort activities or transfers.

Pre-Trip Research

Familiarize yourself with Taveuni to truly appreciate its charm.

Recommended Study

  • Read up on Fijian culture and etiquette.
  • Familiarize with basic Fijian phrases.
  • Research specific attractions and activities.
  • Note hours and fees for planned visits.

Detailed Planning Note

Thorough planning enhances your Taveuni experience, especially for remote activities.

Passport & Visa Check

  • Validity past return date.
  • Check destination visa rules.
  • Apply early if needed.
  • Keep digital copies.

Financial Preparedness

  • Notify banks of travel.
  • Carry local cash.
  • Have backup payment methods.
  • Budget for daily expenses.

Health & Safety Kit

  • Basic first aid items.
  • Personal medications.
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent.
  • Hand sanitizer.

Travel Preparedness

A well-prepared journey enhances your overall experience and eases potential travel challenges.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours upon arrival are important for a smooth transition to Taveuni.

First Steps upon Arrival

  • 1
    Nadi Airport Customs

    Clear immigration and customs at Nadi International Airport.

  • 2
    Local SIM Card

    Purchase a local SIM card (Vodafone/Digicel) at the airport.

  • 3
    Cash Withdrawal

    Withdraw Fijian Dollar cash from an ATM at Nadi, as Taveuni ATMs are unreliable.

Orientation Strategies & Purchases

  • Accommodation Check-in

    Check in to your accommodation promptly upon Taveuni arrival.

  • Resort Orientation

    Orient yourself with your resort layout and amenities.

  • Local Tips & Purchases

    Ask resort staff for local tips. Consider initial purchases of water/snacks.

On-Island Logistics

Currency Exchange

Exchange currency at Nadi International Airport or a bank in Savusavu.

ATMs on Taveuni are unreliable, rely on cash withdrawn beforehand.

From Entry to Accommodation

Confirm your pre-booked resort transfer. Many resorts arrange this for guests.

Alternatively, take a taxi from Matei Airport; agree on the fare before you leave.

Initial Purchases

Consider purchasing some bottled water or basic snacks upon arrival.

This applies if your resort does not provide these immediately upon arrival.

Cash Reminder

Before leaving Nadi International Airport, secure sufficient Fijian cash. ATMs on Taveuni can be unreliable, and many local businesses operate cash-only.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure to ensure a stress-free end to your Taveuni trip and a smooth journey home.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

  • Purchase souvenirs in Taveuni before you leave.
  • Shipping large items from Taveuni is generally impractical.
  • Plan to ship from Nadi or Suva if you have larger purchases.
  • Fiji has a Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) for VAT.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

  • For domestic flights from Matei (TVU), arrive at least 1 hour prior.
  • For international flights from Nadi (NAN), arrive 3 hours prior.
  • Allow for check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
  • Ensure all necessary documents for your return journey.

Traveler Documentation

Verify all travel documents for smooth transit.

Documents

  • PassportValid
  • Any required transit visasSecured
  • Flight confirmationsReady
  • Accommodation detailsConfirmed

Return Trip Finalization

  • Reconfirm international flight details.
  • Pack luggage according to airline weight limits.
  • Avoid excess baggage fees.
  • Ensure passport and any required visas are ready.

Departure Reminder

Confirm your airport transfer for departure the day before your flight. This provides a timely and reliable ride to Matei Airport.

Also, recheck any specific airline requirements.