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Essential Preparations

Essential Preparations

Detailed Pre-Departure Steps

A chronological approach to planning makes the journey straightforward.

Staged Timeline for Your Journey

Follow these steps at the indicated times for optimal readiness.

1

+ Months Before

International Flights

Book these immediately; routes are limited.

Kiritimati Fishing

Book fishing lodge packages far in advance.

Passport Validity

Ensure 6 months validity beyond your departure.

2

-3 Months Before

Visa Application

Apply for your visa if needed, allow processing time.

Vaccinations

Get all necessary vaccinations and health advice.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive insurance, medical evacuation.

3

Month Before

Essential Gear

Start gathering high SPF sunscreen, repellent, etc.

Document Copies

Make digital and physical copies of important documents.

Bank Notification

Inform your bank of travel dates to avoid card issues.

Required Reservations

bookings for a confirmed itinerary.

Booking Ahead

  • International flights are critical
  • Domestic flights (if visiting outer islands)
  • Accommodation (highly recommended, especially on Kiritimati)
  • Fishing lodge packages (essential for Kiritimati)

Essential Information Gathering

Deep dive into the destination for greater appreciation.

Research Focus

  • Kiribati's history, notably WWII events
  • Kiribati culture and its customs
  • Climate patterns and potential weather hazards
  • Health risks and necessary precautions

Before You Depart

Secure your home and inform contacts for peace of mind.

Home Security

  • Secure doors and windows
  • Arrange for mail collection
  • Organize plant watering
  • Arrange for pet care

Financial Alerts

  • Inform your bank of travel
  • Pay outstanding bills
  • Have bank emergency contacts
  • Keep digital copies of financial cards

Share Your Itinerary

  • Inform a trusted contact
  • Share detailed itinerary
  • Provide emergency contact info
  • Leave a copy of your passport

Travel Insurance Is Critical

Comprehensive travel insurance, including medical evacuation coverage, is important. Consider World Nomads.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours in Kiribati set the tone for your trip.

Airport Formalities

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs

    Have passport, completed entry form, and onward/return ticket ready.

  • 2
    Baggage Claim

    Retrieve your luggage from the baggage claim area.

  • 3
    Health Checks

    Clear any necessary health checks (e.g., Yellow Fever certificate).

Initial Orientation

  • Locate Transfer

    Find your pre-arranged transfer or taxi stand outside the terminal.

  • Settle In

    Prioritize getting to your accommodation and settling down.

  • Orient Yourself

    Use a map of the area (South Tarawa or Kiritimati) to understand surroundings.

Immediate Needs & Services

Currency Exchange

Have Australian Dollar cash for immediate expenses.

Exchange more money at a bank or ATM, if available and reliable.

Water & Supplies

Purchase bottled water immediately upon arrival.

Access to safe drinking water holds top priority.

Airport Transport

Use a pre-arranged transfer (recommended for convenience).

Take a licensed taxi from the stand (negotiate fare).

Internet Access Limited

Internet access can be unreliable in Kiribati. Plan for offline capabilities where possible.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for a smooth departure, considering local subtleties.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Purchase souvenirs from local markets or shops
  • Factor in luggage space for your souvenirs
  • Shipping items from Kiribati is expensive and unreliable
  • Kiribati does not have a VAT refund system

Departure Timing & Docs

  • Allow 2-3 hours for check-in at Bonriki (TRW) or Cassidy (CXI)
  • Arrive with sufficient time for domestic flights
  • Reconfirm international flight details
  • Ensure passport and documents for next destination are ready

Travel Day Finances

Ensure you have cash for last-minute needs and transport.

Final Expenses

  • Taxi fare to airportAUD
  • Last-minute snacks or drinksAUD
  • Any airport departure feesAUD
  • Emergency small purchasesAUD

Inter-Island Travel Note

  • If departing internationally from Tarawa after an outer island visit
  • Plan to return to Tarawa at least one day before your international flight
  • Mitigates risk of missing connection due to domestic delays
  • Domestic flight schedules can be fluid and delays common

Last-Minute Reminders

Double-check all flight details and necessary documents.

Have sufficient cash for any final purchases or transport to the airport.