MileHacker Logo
Tahiti Travel Checklist

Tahiti Travel Checklist

Tahiti Society Islands, French Polynesia Travel Guide

Chronological Planning Timeline

A step-by-step guide to your pre-trip activities.

Your Planning Stages

Breaking down your pre-trip actions for clarity and ease.

1

Early Planning 3-6 Months Before

Passport

Check validity (6+ months beyond travel).

Visa

Apply for any required visas.

Flights & Accommodation

Purchase international flights and main holiday resorts/bungalows early. Consider a travel rewards credit card from Capital One Travel for savings.

2

Mid-Stage Planning 1-2 Months Before

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance.

Driving Permit

Apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) if renting vehicles.

Packing Organizers

Consider Eagle Creek packing organizers for effectiveness.

3

Final Countdown 2-4 Weeks Before

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Acquire necessary items like Reef-safe sunscreen.

Travel Adapter

Obtain a Universal travel adapter for your devices.

Currency Exchange

Exchange a small amount of Pacific Franc (XPF) for immediate payments upon arrival.

Required Advance Bookings

International flights, inter-flights between islands, and popular overwater bungalows often need advance booking. This secures your spot and can sometimes offer better rates.

Reservations

  • International and inter-island flights.
  • Popular overwater bungalows or major resort stays.
  • Specific tours (e.g., diving excursions, whale watching).
  • Book well in advance, especially during peak season.

Home Preparation

Secure your home before departure by locking all doors and windows. Inform trusted contacts of your itinerary.

Pre-Departure Tasks

  • Security: Lock all doors and windows.
  • Mail: Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
  • Pet Care: Arrange for pet sitting or boarding if needed.
  • Bills: Confirm bills are paid or set up for auto-payment.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Get to know basic French and Tahitian phrases, local customs, and the attractions you wish to visit.

Language Basics

  • Basic French phrases.
  • Tahitian phrases ("Ia Ora Na", "Mauruuru").
  • Practice with language apps.
  • Listen to pronunciations.

Cultural Etiquette

  • Understand local customs and traditions.
  • Dress discreetly in villages/religious sites.
  • Get consent before photographing people.
  • Adopt the local pace of life ("a'ia'i").

Attraction Planning

  • Research attractions you wish to visit.
  • Check opening hours plus optimal visit times.
  • Plan efficient routes between points of interest.
  • Look into marine life and snorkeling spots.

Travel Checklist Review

A thorough pre-trip checklist minimizes stress. Confirm all bookings and necessary documents for a straightforward journey.

Arrival Checklist

These steps aid a smooth transition upon landing in Tahiti.

First Steps

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs:

    Clear procedures at Faa'an International Airport (PPT) with documents ready.

  • 2
    Luggage:

    Collect your bags from baggage claim.

  • 3
    Transfers:

    Proceed to your pre-arranged transfer or taxi stand.

Settling In

  • Orientation:

    Once at your accommodation, take a moment to orient yourself. Get a local map.

  • Currency & Purchases:

    Exchange a small amount of currency or use an ATM to get Pacific Franc (XPF).

  • Connectivity:

    Get a local SIM card if you want, to get connected right away.

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs & Shipping

Allow time for last-minute souvenir shopping, either at the airport's duty-free shops or at Papeete Municipal Market.

Inquire about shipping costs and customs regulations for your home country.

VAT Refund Procedures

An Overseas collectivity of france has a specific tax system. VAT refunds are generally not applicable for tourists as they are in mainland France.

Confirm with retailers for specific high-value purchases if you believe a refund might apply.

Pre-Departure Timing

Arrive at Faa'an International Airport (PPT) at least 2.5-3 hours before your international departure.

For domestic flights within The Islands of tahiti, 1-1.5 hours is typically enough.

Important Arrival Note

Previously at your accommodation, take a moment to orient yourself, where is the nearest ATM, and find local shops or supermarkets.

Return Trip Preparation

Prepare for your departure to make a stress-free end to your trip.

Flight Reconfirmation

  • Reconfirm your return flights approximately 24-48 hours before departure.
  • Ensure all your travel documents are in order and easily accessible.
  • Verify any changes to flight durations or gates.
  • Double-check baggage allowance.

Airport Transport

  • Have your transport to the airport arranged and confirmed in advance.
  • Consider pre-booked shuttles for stress-free travel to Faa'a.
  • Return rental cars with time to spare before your flight.
  • Allow for traffic or unexpected delays.

Home Security on Return

Final Checks

  • Verify lights are off.Before leaving.
  • Check appliances unplugged.Before departure.
  • Secure all windows and doors.Essential step.
  • Notify trusted neighbor of return date.Good practice.

Digital Clean-Up

  • Delete sensitive data from rental car GPS or public computers.
  • Remove saved Wi-Fi networks from unknown locations.
  • Back up travel photos and videos to cloud storage.
  • Clear browsing history on personal devices when using public Wi-Fi.

Final Logistics

Reconfirm your return flights 24-48 hours before departure. Arrange your transport to the airport well in advance.

Ensure all your travel documents are accessible for a smooth departure.

← Previous
Tahiti Travel Resources
← Back to Tahiti
Next →
Why Visit Tahiti? Inspiration, Culture, Unique Experiences

Next Up: Why Visit Tahiti? Inspiration, Culture, Unique Experiences

Continue to Why Visit Tahiti? Inspiration, Culture, Unique Experiences
Tahiti Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation