MileHacker Logo
Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Uttar Pradesh, India

Essential Preparations

Advance planning streamlines your trip, confirming all important aspects are addressed.

Planning Timeline

A structured timeline guides your preparations, from initial visa applications to final packing.

Your Agra Journey: A Step-by-Step Timeline

Breaking down your pre-trip actions into manageable stages simplifies the process.

3M

Months Before

Visa & Passport

Apply for Indian e-Visa or regular visa. Check passport validity (6 months beyond departure, 2 blank pages).

Initial Flight & Stay

Begin researching flights and main accommodation options to gauge prices and availability.

Health Consultation

Consult a travel health clinic or doctor for recommended vaccinations and necessary prescriptions.

1M

Month Before

Book Travel & Stay

Book international flights to Delhi (DEL) and domestic trains/flights to Agra. Confirm major accommodation.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medical, evacuation, cancellation, and lost luggage. World Nomads is a good option.

Itinerary & Bank

Finalize itinerary. Inform your bank and credit card companies about travel dates. Capital One Travel cards may offer rewards.

1W

Week Before

Packing & Confirmations

Start packing, considering climate and cultural norms. Reconfirm all flights, trains, hotels, and tours.

App & Docs

Download essential apps (Google Maps, Uber/Ola, Google Translate with Hindi). Print/save digital copies of documents. Consider NordVPN.

Home Preparations

Secure your home. Arrange pet care or mail collection. Inform a trusted friend of your itinerary.

Advance Bookings

Reservations

  • International flights to and from India.
  • High-speed trains (e.g., Gatimaan Express, Vande Bharat Express) from Delhi to Agra, especially for specific classes or times.
  • Popular hotels, especially those with Taj Mahal views, during peak season.
  • Any specific tours, cultural performances (like Mohabbat-e-Taj show), or experiences you do not want to miss.

Pre-Trip Research

Familiarizing yourself with the destination before you go enriches your experience and preparedness.

Recommended Reading

  • Read up on Mughal history, specifically regarding the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri. This deepens your appreciation of the sites.
  • Familiarize yourself with Indian cultural etiquette and social norms to confirm respectful interactions.
  • Review common safety concerns and prevention methods specific to Agra.
  • Confirm all doors and windows are locked, and set any alarms.

Home Prep Before Departure

Taking care of home affairs before you leave makes for a worry-free trip.

Mail & Pet Care

  • Stop mail and newspaper delivery or arrange for a neighbor to collect them.
  • Arrange for pet care or house-sitting if needed.
  • Pay any bills that become due during your absence.
  • Turn off unnecessary lights and appliances.

Emergency Contacts

  • Inform a trusted friend or family member of your itinerary and contact information.
  • Provide them with emergency contacts for yourself and your accommodations.
  • Leave a spare set of keys with a trusted person if needed.
  • Confirm home security systems are active.

Digital Safeguards

  • Back up important computer files to cloud storage.
  • Update antivirus software on your devices.
  • Disable remote access to your home network if not necessary.
  • Set automated replies for email or messages if desired.

Reminder on Document Copies

Keep physical and digital copies of your passport, visa, flight tickets, and hotel reservations separate from the originals. This protects you in case of loss or theft.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours in a new city can be overwhelming. A checklist guides your initial steps, setting a positive tone for your trip.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs:

    Clear immigration and customs procedures at the airport. Have your passport and visa (or e-Visa printout) ready.

  • 2
    Luggage Collection:

    Collect your checked luggage from the carousel.

  • 3
    SIM Card:

    If arriving internationally (e.g., Delhi DEL), acquire a local SIM card from a recognized airport counter for immediate connectivity.

Orientation Strategies

  • Currency & Transfer:

    Withdraw local currency from an ATM or exchange money at an authorized counter. Proceed to your pre-arranged airport or railway station transfer.

  • Familiarization:

    Upon arrival at your hotel, familiarize yourself with your immediate surroundings. Locate nearby reputable restaurants, pharmacies, and ATMs.

  • Itinerary Review:

    Review your itinerary for the first day or two. Confirm opening hours for attractions and plan your transport. If solo, consider connecting with hostel reception for local tips.

Connecting & Settling In

Activating SIM Card

Once you have your local SIM, confirm it is active and has data. This provides internet access for maps and communication.

If you prefer an eSIM, check providers before your trip for compatible options.

Hotel Check-in

Provide your passport and visa details for check-in. Inquire about hotel amenities, Wi-Fi access, and breakfast times.

Ask the front desk for local restaurant recommendations or trusted taxi services.

Unpack & Rest

Unpack and settle into your room. Consider a short rest if you have had a long journey to refresh.

Light activity or a walk nearby can aid in adjusting to the time zone.

Support from your Hotel

Your hotel staff can be a valuable resource for local information, transport arrangements, and confirming tour bookings.

Departure Preparation

A smooth departure ensures a positive end to your trip. Plan your final moments in Agra efficiently.

Last-Minute Logistics

  • Purchase any desired souvenirs well in advance of your departure. This allows time for browsing.
  • If shipping large items (e.g., carpets, marble tables), confirm arrangements with the shop. Understand shipping costs and customs regulations for your home country. Keep all receipts.
  • India generally has no VAT refund system for tourists on goods purchased. No VAT refund procedures at the airport.
  • Allow ample time for travel to the airport or railway station. Traffic in Agra and on the Delhi-Agra route can be unpredictable.

Final Checks & Travel

  • For international flights from Delhi (DEL), try to arrive 3-4 hours before departure. For domestic flights from Agra (AGR), 1.5-2 hours usually suffices.
  • Reconfirm your flight or train details 24-48 hours before departure.
  • Confirm all travel documents (passport, boarding pass/ticket, visa) are easily accessible in your carry-on bag.
  • Possess enough local currency for your final transport and any last-minute expenses.

Customs & Regulations

Be aware of what you can and cannot take out of the country.

Export Restrictions

  • Antiques over 100 years oldProhibited
  • Wildlife products (ivory, animal skins)Strictly Prohibited
  • Certain plant speciesRestricted
  • Large amounts of local currencyRestricted

Leaving Your Accommodation

  • Return room keys or cards to reception.
  • Double-check drawers and closets for forgotten items.
  • Settle any outstanding hotel bills or incidental charges.
  • Inform the front desk of your departure time, especially if you need a taxi.

Final Airport Checks

Before security, confirm liquids in your carry-on adhere to airline rules.

Dispose of any items not allowed through security to avoid delays.