Pre-Trip Checklist: Banda Aceh

Essential Preparations

Follow this chronological timeline to organize your trip effectively.

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Passport validity minimum 6 months. Research and apply for required visas.

Flights & Lodging

Book international flights to Banda Aceh and initial accommodation.

Health & Security

Consult a travel doctor for vaccinations and purchase comprehensive travel insurance. World Nomads.

Weeks Before

Local Travel

Book domestic flights or fast ferry to Weh Island, especially for peak season.

Bank Notifications

Inform your bank and credit card companies of travel plans.

App Downloads

Download Grab, Google Maps (offline), Google Translate (offline).

Days Before

Document Check

Confirm all reservations. Organize digital and physical copies of essential documents.

Cash & Chargers

Plan to withdraw local currency. Charge all electronic devices.

Home Secure

Arrange for pet care and mail delivery holds. Secure your home.

Bookings

Secure these arrangements well in advance to prevent last-minute issues.

Advance Reservations

International and domestic flights.
Fast ferry to Weh Island (for busy periods).
Accommodation for your entire stay or first few nights.
Any guided tours or specific activities.

Pre-Visit Study

Deepen your understanding before arrival.

Research Themes

Acehnese culture, Sharia law, and local customs for respectful travel.
Attractions, their operating hours, and transportation options.
Recent travel blogs or forums for current conditions and tips.
General information about Indonesia as a whole.

Homefront Safeguards

Prepare your home for your absence, gaining peace of mind while traveling.

Pet & Mail Care

Arrange for pet care if needed.
Stop or hold mail delivery.
Inform neighbors of your travel.

Itinerary Share

Inform trusted family or friends of your itinerary.
Share emergency contacts.
Provide accommodation details.

Physical Security

Secure your home by locking doors and windows.
Set alarms if you have them.
Unplug unnecessary electronics.

Planning Tip

Early preparation for visas, flights, and insurance prevents stress and unexpected costs.

On the Ground & On Your Way

Steps for a smooth arrival and a well-organized departure.

Arrival Checklist

1
Immigration Clear
Clear immigration with passport, visa (or VoA eligibility), and onward ticket.
2
Luggage Retrieval
Collect your luggage from the carousel.
3
Customs Declaration
Complete the electronic Customs Declaration (e-CD) form.

First Priorities

Local SIM
Consider getting a local SIM card for easy communication and navigation.
Currency Access
Withdraw local currency from an ATM or exchange money (city rates may be better).
Immediate Hydration
Buy a bottle of water immediately upon leaving the airport.

Settling In

Orientation

Obtain a local map (physical or digital).

Familiarize yourself with your accommodation's immediate surroundings.

Currency Matters

Better exchange rates typically appear in the city.

ATMs are a reliable source of cash throughout Banda Aceh.

Airport Transfers

Pre-arrange an airport transfer with your hotel.

Alternatively, use official airport taxis or the Grab app for a ride.

First Impressions

Having a local SIM and some cash on hand aids your initial arrival and navigation.

Departure Preparation

Ensure a smooth departure from Banda Aceh with these final checks.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Plan souvenir purchases considering weight limits for your luggage.
Shipping can be expensive and slow, so evaluate if items are worth shipping.
The VAT refund scheme is specific and likely not applicable for typical souvenir purchases.
Consider spending leftover local currency on last-minute purchases.

Airport Timing & Return

Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights.
Allow 1.5-2 hours for domestic flights.
Factor in potential traffic to the airport, especially during peak hours.
Reconfirm your return flight details and pack according to baggage allowances.

Financial Finalities

monetary considerations before your exit.

Expenditure Summary

Currency exchange: Local shops may offer better rates for last-minute exchanges.Check Rates
Leftover currency: Consider converting back or spending it on local crafts.Convert/Spend
Receipts: Keep receipts for any VAT refund if applicable (unlikely for most souvenirs).Retain Receipts
Final payments: Ensure all hotel bills and local transportation costs are settled.Settle Bills

Packing Pointers

Adhere to luggage weight limits to prevent extra fees.
Organize items for security checks (liquids, electronics).
Ensure adapters and power banks are easily accessible.
Keep important travel documents handy for check-in.

Smooth Exit

Double-checking all departure requirements streamlines your journey home.

Pack smartly. Affiliate: Eagle Creek for packing solutions.

Pre-Trip Checklist