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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Andaman And Nicobar Islands, India

Essential Preparations

A chronological approach guides various tasks involved in preparing for a trip to Havelock Island.

Planning Timeline

Organize your preparations well in advance for a smooth journey.

3-6M

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity and begin Indian visa application.

Flight & Ferry

Book international flights, domestic flights to Port Blair, and major ferries to Havelock.

Accommodation & Health

Secure accommodation. Consult doctor for vaccinations. Arrange comprehensive Travel insurance.

1M

Month Before

Confirmations

Reconfirm all flights, ferry tickets, and hotel reservations.

Itinerary & Gear

Outline a rough itinerary. Purchase required gear like a snorkeling mask or dry bag.

Finances & Documents

Inform bank of travel plans. Make digital and physical copies of important documents.

1W

Week Before

Packing & Tech

Pack according to climate and activities. Charge electronics and power banks.

Transfers & Contacts

Confirm airport transfers. Notify family/friends of itinerary and contact information.

Offline Resources

Download offline maps of Havelock and Hindi language packs.

Advance Bookings

Specific travel components demand advance booking, especially during high season.

Items to Book

  • Flights (international and domestic).
  • Ferries (private ones especially).
  • High-season accommodation.
  • Popular dive slots.

Pre-Trip Research

A small amount of pre-trip reading leads to a smoother and more respectful travel experience.

Topics to Explore

  • Read up on local customs.
  • Learn a few basic Hindi phrases.
  • Check current travel advisories for India and the Andaman Islands.
  • Secure your home, arrange for pet or plant care, put mail on hold.

Arrival Checklist

The moments immediately after arrival define the tone for your trip. A checklist aids navigation of initial logistics efficiently upon reaching Port Blair and then Havelock Island.

Port Blair First Steps

  • Clear immigration and customs.
  • Collect luggage.
  • Activate local SIM card.
  • Exchange currency/withdraw cash from ATM.

Havelock Orientation

  • Familiarize yourself with your resort area.
  • Locate nearest ATM, pharmacy, and local eateries.
  • Understand local transport options from your accommodation.
  • Purchase bottled water immediately.

Transport & Purchases

  • Arrange transport: Pre-paid taxi or auto-rickshaw to Port Blair accommodation/jetty.
  • Upon arrival at Havelock Jetty, auto-rickshaws and resort taxis are available.
  • Exchange enough local currency for immediate needs.
  • Confirm fare with auto-rickshaw drivers before starting.

Departure Timing Advisory

Ferry delays can occur due to weather or operational issues. Take an early morning ferry from Havelock if you have an afternoon flight from Port Blair.

Departure Preparation

Finalizing arrangements for your departure from Havelock Island for a smooth journey home.

Souvenirs and Shipping

  • 1
    Purchase Souvenirs:

    Buy souvenirs a day or two before departure to avoid last-minute rush.

  • 2
    Shipping Challenges:

    Shipping directly from Havelock is challenging due to limited postal services.

  • 3
    Port Blair Shipping:

    Shipping larger purchases is easier from Port Blair with more courier options.

Departure Logistics

  • VAT Refunds:

    India does not have a general VAT refund scheme for tourists on purchases.

  • Timing Flights:

    Factor in ample travel time from Havelock to Port Blair for your flight; ferry delays occur.

  • Jetty & Airport Arrival:

    Arrive at Havelock Jetty 30-45 minutes before private ferry, 1 hour for government ferries; allow 2 hours at Port Blair airport.

Return Trip Details

Reconfirm Flights

Reconfirm your return flights from Port Blair to mainland India and your international flight.

Confirm all flight details to avoid last-minute issues.

Document Check

Ensure all your travel documents, including passport, visa, and flight tickets, are in order.

Keep documents easily accessible for airport procedures.

Efficient Packing

Pack your bags efficiently, leaving enough space for any souvenirs you acquired.

Consider weight limits for checked and carry-on luggage.

Practical Advice

Arrive at Havelock Jetty at least 30-45 minutes before private ferry departure, or 1 hour for government ferries.

Comprehensive Preparation

A thoughtful approach to pre-trip and departure tasks ensures a relaxed and organized travel experience.

Home Preparations

  • Secure your home before leaving.
  • Arrange for pet care if needed.
  • Organize plant care for your absence.
  • Put your mail on hold or arrange for collection.

Seamless Arrival

  • Obtain enough Indian Rupees for immediate expenses.
  • Purchase bottled water immediately upon arrival.
  • Confirm the fare with auto-rickshaw drivers before starting your journey.
  • If pre-arranged resort transfers exist, look for your driver at the meeting point.

Departures Reminders

Be mindful of these final details for a hassle-free departure from Havelock Island.

Checklist Details

  • Flights reconfirmed:Yes/No
  • Travel documents in order:Yes/No
  • Bags packed efficiently:Yes/No
  • Souvenirs accounted for:Yes/No

Pre-Trip Research Focus

  • Local customs understanding.
  • Basic Hindi phrases practice.
  • Current travel advisories review.
  • Home security arrangements.

Consideration for Your Return

Allow at least 2 hours at Port Blair airport for domestic flight check-in and security.

Ensure all travel documents are in order and easily accessible for your return journey.