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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Sumatra, Indonesia

Essential Preparations

Plan your trip in phases, addressing tasks at different times before your departure.

Chronological Planning

Phased steps for a well-organized journey.

3M

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (6+ months). Research visa requirements and apply for e-Visa if needed.

Flights & Health

Book international flights to Medan (KNO). Consult your doctor for recommended vaccinations.

Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Coverage medical emergencies and trip cancellation.

1M

Month Before

Domestic & Stay

Book domestic flights (Medan to Silangit - DTB). Secure your initial nights' accommodation in Tuk Tuk.

Driving Permit

Obtain an International Driving Permit if you plan to rent a scooter or car; it is legally required.

Language & Transfer

Begin learning basic Bahasa Indonesia phrases. Arrange airport transfers if you prefer private services.

1W

Week Before

Confirmations

Confirm all your flight, accommodation, and transfer bookings.

Digital Tools

Download offline maps (Google Maps, Maps.me) and translation apps (Google Translate) to your phone.

Finances & Documents

Notify your bank of travel plans. Make copies (physical & digital) of all essential documents.

Essential Bookings

Flights (international and domestic), your first few nights' accommodation, and significant transfers (e.g., a private car from Medan airport) are for advance booking, especially during high season.

Pre-trip Research Recommendations

  • Read up on Batak culture and history to enrich your grasp of the region.
  • Become familiar with local scams or common safety concerns, though Lake Toba is generally safe.
  • Seek current traveler experiences.

Home Preps

A smooth departure begins with home organization.

Home Checklist

  • Arrange pet care.
  • Hold your mail delivery.
  • Set up automatic bill payments.
  • Secure your home (e.g., notifying neighbors, setting timers for lights).

Arrival Essentials

Ensure you are ready for your initial moments in Lake Toba.

Connectivity

  • Purchase and register a local SIM card (if no e-SIM).
  • Immediate phone connectivity.

Currency

  • Withdraw local currency from an ATM or exchange money.
  • Enough for immediate needs.
  • Small denominations for local purchases.

Transport Plan

  • Find your pre-arranged transfer or public transport.
  • Confirm ferry pier with your guesthouse.
  • A short walk or pick-up to your accommodation.

Helpful Tip

Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to prevent any card blocks due to unusual activity.

Arrival Checklist

These steps assist in settling in smoothly upon arrival in Indonesia and Lake Toba.

Airport Procedures

  • 1
    Clear Immigration

    Proceed through immigration. Have your passport and onward ticket ready.

  • 2
    Visa-on-Arrival (VoA)

    If needed, purchase your Visa-on-Arrival sticker first before proceeding to the immigration counter.

  • 3
    Collect Luggage

    Retrieve your checked luggage.

Initial Setup

  • Local SIM Card

    Purchase and register a local SIM card (if you did not pre-order an e-SIM). Immediate connectivity.

  • Currency Exchange/ATM

    Withdraw local currency from an ATM or exchange money at a reputable counter. Acquire enough for immediate needs.

  • Locate Transport

    Find your pre-arranged transfer or public transport to Parapat (if arriving at KNO or DTB).

Departure Preparation

Souvenir Strategy

Purchase souvenirs well in advance of departure. If buying large or fragile items, inquire about shipping costs and procedures with local shops.

Be aware of your home country's customs regulations for imported goods.

VAT Refunds

Indonesia has a VAT refund scheme, but it generally applies to high-value goods from registered merchants.

It is unlikely to relate to most purchases in Lake Toba.

Departure Timing

Allow ample time for the ferry from Samosir to Parapat (45-60 minutes), then for the long land journey to Medan airport (4-6 hours).

Factor in potential traffic delays. For international flights from KNO, try to be at the airport 2-3 hours prior.

Helpful Tip

Take a photo of your passport, visa stamp, and flight tickets on your phone. This digital copy forms an useful backup if physical documents are lost.

Return Trip Planning

Ensure a smooth journey home with these considerations.

Packing Efficiency

  • Pack efficiently.
  • Ensure any liquids in your carry-on comply with airport security rules.
  • Ensure all necessary documents (passport, boarding pass) are easily accessible.

Flight Confirmations

  • Confirm your return flight details.
  • Double-check departure times.
  • Reconfirm any onward travel arrangements.

Departure Costs

Factor in potential final expenses.

Budget Allocation

  • Final meals:Estimate
  • Last-minute souvenirs:Allocate
  • Airport transport:Consider cost
  • Any exit fees:Check upon entry

Connectivity On Route

  • Ensure your phone or portable Wi-Fi device is charged.
  • Consider downloading entertainment for long journeys.
  • Carry a power bank.
  • Keep offline maps accessible until you are safely home.

Packing Advisory

Leave space in your luggage for souvenirs. Consider bringing a foldable extra bag for purchases.

Pack any items that could break or leak carefully, wrapped in clothing or secure containers.