Kovalam Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Essential Preparations

Follow a chronological timeline to manage your pre-departure tasks.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Breaking down your planning into manageable phases.

Months Before Departure

Visa Application

Start your e-Visa or regular visa process, allowing time for processing.

Flight Bookings

Secure international and long-haul domestic flights within India.

Health Clinic Visit

Consult a travel health clinic for vaccinations and preventative medications.

Month Before Departure

Accommodation Bookings

Secure all stays in Kovalam and other Kerala destinations.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medical, cancellation, and luggage. (World Nomads)

Itinerary Planning

Map out daily activities, day trips, and specific tours.

Week Before Departure

Confirm Bookings

Reconfirm all flights, accommodation, and pre-booked tours.

Bank Notification

Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates.

Packing

Pack essential documents, prescription medications, and climate-appropriate clothing.

Required Advance Bookings

Securing these bookings beforehand streamlines your trip.

Reservations

Flights (international and domestic sectors within India)
Accommodation in Kovalam and other stops (especially during peak season)
Ayurveda treatment packages or retreats (seek reputable centers)
Train tickets (if planning long-distance rail travel within India)

Pre-Trip Research and Home Preparation

A little groundwork sets the stage for a fulfilling adventure.

Research and Home Tasks

Read up on Kerala's culture, cuisine, and local customs.
Familiarize yourself with basic Malayalam phrases.
Inform trusted friends or family of your itinerary and contact details.
Secure your home by locking doors and windows, and setting alarms.

Packing and Digital Readiness

Optimize your belongings and digital tools for travel.

Travel Essentials

Purchase Packing cubes or other Travel gear.
Acquire a suitable Travel adapter.
Carry prescription medications with documentation.
Pack climate-appropriate clothing.

Digital Setup

Download essential apps like Google Maps and translation apps.
Download offline maps for areas you plan to visit.
Charge all electronic devices, including power banks.
Consider a VPN for secure internet access, like NordVPN.

Final Preps

Convert a small amount of currency to INR for immediate expenses.
Arrange for mail collection.
Arrange for pet care.
Arrange for plant watering.

Travel Advisory

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance, such as from World Nomads, for medical emergencies and trip cancellations.

Arrival Checklist

These steps ease your transition upon reaching Kovalam.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration and Luggage
Clear immigration and collect your luggage at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport.
2
Transfer Arrangement
Proceed to your transfer: pre-paid taxi, pre-arranged hotel transfer, or ride-sharing pickup point.
3
Local SIM Card
Visit an authorized counter at the airport for local SIM purchase and registration, if desired.

Orientation and Essentials

Immediate Orientation
Upon arrival at your accommodation, take a moment to orient yourself with the immediate surroundings.
Local Tips
Ask hotel staff for local tips, a simple map, and directions to nearby points of interest.
Initial Purchases
Use an airport ATM or exchange to acquire Indian Rupees for immediate expenses and purchase Bottled water.

Transportation from Entry Point

Pre-booked Transfers

Utilize pre-booked hotel transfers for a smooth and comfortable journey to Kovalam.

This option provides convenience and reliability directly from the airport.

Pre-paid Airport Taxis

Opt for pre-paid airport taxis to ensure transparent and fixed fares from Thiruvananthapuram airport.

Confirm the fare before starting the ride for auto-rickshaws if chosen.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Use ride-sharing apps like Uber/Ola in Thiruvananthapuram for a contemporary transfer option.

These apps often offer competitive pricing and ride tracking.

Important Note

Having some Indian Rupees for immediate expenses upon arrival is practical.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure for a pleasant journey home.

Souvenir and Shipping Considerations

Purchase souvenirs and gifts well before your departure.
Allow time for any packaging or specific requests.
If buying large items, inquire about shipping services from reputable stores.
Be aware of your home country's customs regulations for imported goods.

Return Trip Details

Reconfirm your flight details 24-48 hours before departure.
Arrange your airport transfer from Kovalam in advance.
Ensure all necessary documents are easily accessible in your carry-on bag.
Recheck luggage weight limits to avoid excess baggage fees. Consider Eagle Creek Packing cubes.

VAT Refund Procedures

Important Information

India does not currently have a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund system for tourists.
You cannot claim VAT refunds on purchases made in India.
Keep receipts for your records, but a refund mechanism does not apply.
This differs from systems found in other countries.

Airport Arrival Timing

For international flights from Thiruvananthapuram (TRV), arrive at least 2-3 hours before departure.
This allows ample time for check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
For domestic flights, arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.

Final Tip

Ensure all necessary documents (passport, boarding pass, e-Visa copy) are easily accessible in your carry-on bag.

A timely arrival at the airport secures a relaxed departure.

Kovalam Travel Checklist