Pre-Trip Checklist: North Sumatra

Essential Preparations

Advance planning supports a smooth departure.

Phases of Preparation

A structured timeline for your journey.

-6 Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check validity (6+ months). Apply for visa if required.

Health

Consult travel doctor for vaccinations. Acquire immunizations.

Initial Itinerary

Research points of interest. Outline a rough travel plan.

-2 Months Before

Bookings

Secure major accommodation. Confirm popular spots in high season.

Insurance & Transport

Acquire comprehensive travel insurance. Book domestic transport.

Driving Permit

Obtain International Driving Permit (IDP) if needed.

-4 Weeks Before

Confirm & Notify

Verify all bookings. Inform banks of travel dates.

Digital Tools

Download travel apps (Grab, Google Maps offline). Consider a VPN for secure connections.

Documents & Health

Scan/photocopy documents. Pack prescription medications.

Required Bookings

Secure elements of your trip.

Important Reservations

International and domestic flights (especially peak travel seasons).
Accommodation (first night, popular spots like Lake Toba and Bukit Lawang).
Specialized tours (e.g., orangutan trekking, if using a specific operator).
Specific operator slots benefit from advanced booking.

Pre-Trip Research

Insights for a experience.

Preparatory Learning

Read about North Sumatra's culture, especially Batak customs.
Familiarize yourself with common local scams.
Check current local news for any travel advisories.
Review weather conditions and potential road closures.

Home Preparations

Prepare your home for your absence.

Secure Your Residence

Lock all doors and windows securely.
Set timers for lights to deter intruders.
Stop mail and newspaper deliveries.
Ask a trusted neighbor or friend to check in.

Pet & Plant Care

Arrange for pet care if you have animals.
Ensure plants are watered or cared for.
Confirm care arrangements in advance.
Leave emergency contacts for pet/plant sitters.

Financial & Contacts

Pay any upcoming bills or set up automatic payments.
Notify trusted contacts of your itinerary.
Provide emergency contact information to others.
Maintain an accessible list of useful contacts.

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip interruptions. This provides peace of mind. Check providers like World Nomads.

Arrival Checklist

These steps confirm a smooth entry into North Sumatra.

First Steps at Kualanamu International Airport KNO

1
Immigration
Proceed through immigration. Have your passport and onward ticket ready.
2
Customs
Collect your luggage. Proceed through customs, declare dutiable goods.
3
Orientation
Locate the airport information desk for immediate questions.

Connectivity & Refreshments

Currency Exchange
Find ATMs or currency exchange counters for initial Indonesian Rupiah needs.
Local SIM Card
Purchase a local SIM card (Telkomsel recommended) from a reputable vendor.
Water Supply
Acquire a bottle of water immediately; tap water is not safe to drink.

Transportation to Lodging

Airport Railink

Fastest way from KNO to Medan city center.

Avoids city traffic congestion.

Taxi & Ride-Share

Blue Bird taxi or Grab/Gojek offer metered or upfront pricing.

Convenient for direct routes.

Direct to Lake Toba

Arrange private car/taxi to Parapat from KNO.

Locate appropriate long-distance bus service.

Arrival Awareness

Be aware of your surroundings upon arrival. Confirm transport details with reputable services. This supports a secure start to your trip.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your exit to confirm a hassle-free departure.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Consider weight and liquid restrictions for luggage.
Inquire about shipping services for large items from vendors.
Keep receipts for valuable items for customs purposes in your home country.
Pack smartly using organizers like those from Eagle Creek.

VAT Refund Procedures

Indonesia offers a VAT refund scheme for tourists.
Applicable to goods purchased from eligible retailers (typically larger stores).
Look for "VAT Refund for Tourists" signs.
Present original receipts at the airport VAT refund counter before check-in.

Pre-Departure Timing

Ensure timely airport arrival.

Recommended Arrival Times

International Flights:2-3 hours before departure
Domestic Flights:1.5-2 hours before departure
Traffic Buffer (Medan):Allow extra time during peak hours
Avoid Rush:Plan for a relaxed journey to the airport

Return Trip Preparation

Reconfirm your flight details 24-48 hours before departure.
Check-in online if possible to save time at the airport.
Ensure passport, boarding pass, and onward travel documents are ready.
Verify you have not overstayed your visa to avoid fines.

Final Check

Create a physical checklist and tick off items as you complete them. This reduces pre-travel worries and supports a complete preparation.

Pre-Trip Checklist