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Medan Travel Checklist

Medan Travel Checklist

Medan North Sumatra, Indonesia Travel Guide

Your Journey Timeline

A detailed planning outline for a memorable trip.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Outline your preparation steps for a hassle-free trip.

3

Months Prior

Passport Validity

Confirm passport is valid for 6 months beyond entry.

Visa Requirements

Research visa needs; apply for e-Visa or understand Visa-on-Arrival.

Book Flights

Secure international flights to Kualanamu International Airport (KNO).

1

Month Prior

Book Accommodations

Reserve hotels or guesthouses, especially for high season.

Plan Major Excursions

Outline day trips (Lake Toba, Bukit Lawang); book guides if desired.

International Driving Permit

Obtain an IDP if you plan to drive an automobile or rent a motorcycle.

1

Week Prior

Confirm Bookings

Reconfirm all flights, booking a hotel, and tours.

Download Essentials

Download offline maps and essential apps like Grab and Gojek.

Digital Copies

Create digital copies of all important documents for backup.

Advance Reservations

Securing your spots ahead of time.

Essential Bookings

  • International and domestic flights into and out of Medan.
  • Popular hotels, particularly in peak season.
  • Specific tours, especially wildlife-related excursions like orangutan trekking.
  • Multi-day excursions that require guides or specific logistics.

Preparations

Research and home care before leaving.

Pre-Trip Research

  • Read up on Indonesian culture, focusing on Sumatran and Medanese customs.
  • Learn some basic Indonesian phrases for enhanced interactions.
  • Monitor current local news in Medan for advisories or events.
  • Secure your home, arrange pet care, and hold mail.

Detailed Research

Beyond just booking, immerse yourself in the destination.

Cultural Immersion

  • Read about Indonesian culture.
  • Focus on Sumatran and Medanese customs.
  • Learn basic Indonesian phrases.
  • Prepare for considerate dealings.

Current Affairs

  • Monitor local news in Medan.
  • Check North Sumatra for advisories.
  • Stay informed on local events.
  • Maintain awareness of local conditions.

Home Preparation

  • Secure your home (lock windows/doors, set alarms).
  • Arrange pet care if needed.
  • Hold your mail or arrange collection.
  • Notify trusted contacts of your itinerary.

Travel Adapter

Purchase a Universal travel adapter for Indonesia's Type C and F outlets.

Arrival Checklist in Medan

These steps aid in settling in quickly upon landing in Medan.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration Process

    Proceed through immigration; have your passport, visa/e-VOA, and return ticket ready.

  • 2
    SIM Card Acquisition

    Consider getting a local SIM card at the airport for immediate connectivity.

  • 3
    Currency Exchange/ATM

    Exchange currency or withdraw cash; small denominations are beneficial for immediate needs.

Orientation Strategies

  • Familiarize with Neighborhood

    Acquaint yourself with your hotel's immediate surroundings; note stores and food options.

  • Understand Local Transport

    Recognize transportation options from your accommodation; Grab/Gojek will likely be your main mode.

  • Locate ATMs & Money Changers

    Find nearby ATMs and money changers for how much cash you need.

Connectivity & Initial Purchases

Stay Connected

A local SIM card from the airport provides immediate internet access.

It aids navigation and communication significantly.

Cash Essentials

Ensure you have small denominations of Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).

Useful for local transport fares, street food, or small vendor purchases.

Airport Transfers

Select your preferred transfer method to the city center.

Airport Railink, Grab/Gojek, or taxi options are available.

Orientation Tip

Get to know your hotel's immediate neighborhood upon arrival.

Departure Preparation from Medan

Prepare for a smooth departure from Medan.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

  • Allow time for last-minute souvenir shopping.
  • If purchasing large items, inquire about shipping options with vendors or couriers.
  • Indonesia does not currently offer a general VAT refund scheme for tourists with purchases.
  • Be aware of potential shipping costs and timelines.

Pre-Departure Timing

  • For an international flight departing from Kualanamu, arrive at least 2-3 hours before departure.
  • For a domestic flight, arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
  • Reconfirm your return flight details 24-48 hours before departure.
  • Ensure your passport and boarding passes are ready and accessible.

Airport Check-in Timings

Allocating sufficient time for your flight.

Recommended Times

  • International Flight2-3 hours prior
  • Domestic Flight1.5-2 hours prior

Return Trip Logistics

  • Reconfirm flight details 24-48 hours before departure.
  • Have your passport and boarding passes ready and easily accessible.
  • Plan your transport to the airport in advance, considering potential traffic.
  • Allow extra time during peak hours or for unforeseen delays.

Departure Tip

Keep a small, organized pouch for your passport, boarding passes, and travel documents.

This keeps them secure and accessible during airport procedures.

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