Pre-Trip Checklist: East Java

Organized Planning Timeline

A structured approach to planning supports a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

Comprehensive Pre-Departure Schedule

A structured approach to planning supports a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

Months Prior

Passport Validity Check

Confirm your passport's expiration date. It must remain valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure.

Visa Requirement Research

Investigate Indonesia's visa rules for your nationality. Apply for an e-VOA or traditional visa if needed; begin early.

Vaccination Consultations

Consult a travel doctor for required and recommended vaccinations and preventive medications.

Month Prior

Accommodation Bookings

Book accommodations, especially in popular areas like Cemoro Lawang and Licin/Sempol. Also secure city hotels in Surabaya or Malang.

Intercity Train Tickets

Book train tickets for long journeys, especially Executive class, as these can sell out.

Travel Insurance Arrangement

Arrange comprehensive travel insurance, covering medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellation, and adventure activities.

Week Prior

Booking Reconfirmation

Reconfirm all your flight, hotel, and tour bookings. Review your itinerary.

Packing and Forecast

Pack climate-suitable clothing and gear. Check the weather forecast for your specific travel dates.

Digital Preparation

Download essential apps like Gojek, Grab, Google Translate, and Google Maps. Download offline maps and language packs.

Useful Reservations

Securing certain bookings ahead of time streamlines your journey.

High-Demand Bookings

International and domestic flights, specifically during peak seasons.
Popular hotels, especially those near Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater due to limited availability.
Intercity train tickets for comfortable and reliable travel.
Mount Bromo and Ijen Crater tours for guaranteed spot and seamless logistics.

Preparatory Research

Prior investigation deepens your experience and awareness.

Recommended Pre-Trip Inquiry

Read up on East Javanese culture, local customs, and basic Indonesian phrases.
Understand safety precautions for volcano treks and other adventure activities.
Review food hygiene tips to help avoid common travel ailments.
Familiarize yourself with local etiquette for public interactions.

Domestic Arrangements

Secure your home environment for peace of mind while away.

Household Organization

Pet Care: Arrange for pet care if you have animals.
Mail/Deliveries: Arrange to hold your mail or have a trusted person collect it.
Notify Others: Inform trusted neighbors or family members of your travel dates and emergency contacts.
Secure Home: Secure your home by locking all doors and windows, and setting any alarms.

Financial Readiness

Bank Notification: Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans.
Currency: Plan for currency exchange or ATM withdrawals upon arrival.
Budget: Establish a daily travel budget.
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Connectivity & Navigation

App Downloads: Secure essential travel apps on your device.
Offline Maps: Download maps for offline access.
Language Pack: Install language translation packs.
VPN: Consider a VPN like NordVPN for secure browsing.

Driving Permit Reminder

If you plan to drive a car or scooter, acquire an International Driving Permit (IDP) from your home country. This permit is required for driving legally.

Arrival Checklist

These steps facilitate a smooth settling-in upon arrival in East Java.

Initial Arrival Protocol

1
Immigration Clearance:
Present your passport and any required e-VOA or visa documentation to immigration officers.
2
Customs Declaration:
Complete your customs declaration (often digital or via an app before arrival). Declare any restricted items.
3
Currency Exchange/ATM:
Exchange a small amount of currency at the airport or withdraw cash from an ATM.

Local Integration Steps

Local SIM Card:
Purchase a local SIM card from an official provider booth at the airport for immediate connectivity.
Orientation Strategies:
Locate your accommodation on a map and understand its surroundings. Familiarize yourself with local transport options.
Initial Purchases:
Have sufficient local currency for immediate needs. Purchase bottled water; confirm it is sealed before drinking.

Transportation from Entry Point

Pre-booked Transfers

Use your pre-booked transfer for a seamless airport to lodging transition.

This option ensures direct and hassle-free transit upon arrival.

Official Airport Taxis

Opt for official airport taxis, which maintain regulated fares and routes.

Confirm the fare or meter usage before starting your journey.

Ride-Sharing Services

Book a ride-sharing service (Gojek/Grab) via the app. Know the designated pick-up points.

These services often present transparent pricing and route tracking.

Digital Backup Advice

Taking screenshots of your bookings and important documents safeguards access even without internet connectivity.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for a smooth departure from East Java.

Souvenir and Baggage

Purchase souvenirs a few days before your departure for ample packing time.
Check your airline's baggage allowances to avoid excess fees. Packing Organizers
If shipping larger items, use reputable international shipping companies and research customs regulations.
Indonesia does not possess a widespread Value Added Tax (VAT) refund scheme for tourists.

Airport Timing

Arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before international flights and 1.5-2 hours for domestic flights.
Allow extra time for potential traffic congestion, especially when departing from Surabaya.
Reconfirm your return flight details with your airline.
Ensure all necessary documents (passport, boarding pass) are easily accessible.

Final Steps for Departure

Ensure all loose ends are tied before your journey home.

Accommodation Check-out

Settle any outstanding bills.
Confirm your check-out time.
Inspect your room for forgotten items.
Arrange transportation to the airport.

Repacking & Final Checks

Repack your bags, leaving enough space and weight allowance for any souvenirs.
Dispose of any remaining local currency or exchange it if possible.
Clear your personal data from any public computers used.
Ensure all electronic devices are charged for your journey.

Important Travel Document

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary if you intend to drive. Obtain this document from your home country prior to departure.

Pre-Trip Checklist