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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Lebanon

Essential Preparations

A chronological timeline for your Beirut adventure.

Planning Timeline

Structured steps to get ready for your trip.

3+

Months Before

Passport Validity

Check passport expiration; must be valid six months beyond return.

Visa Research

Research entry needs for your nationality, apply if required.

Flight Booking

Book international flights for best prices, especially peak season.

1

Month Before

Accommodation

Book your hotel, guesthouse, or Airbnb for your entire stay.

Itinerary Planning

Plan your general itinerary and desired day trips.

Tour Reservations

Reserve any specific tours or activities needing advance booking.

1

Week Before

Confirmations

Reconfirm all your flight, accommodation, and tour bookings.

Packing & Currency

Pack versatile layers, modest clothing, arrange USD cash.

App Downloads

Download essential apps like Bolt/Uber, Google Maps, WhatsApp.

Booking Essentials

Certain elements benefit from advance booking for seamless travel.

Bookings

  • Flights, especially during high season.
  • Hotels, if you have specific preferences.
  • Major tours to sites like Baalbek.
  • Travel insurance coverage, such as from World Nomads.

Research Insights

Knowledge strengthens your experience.

Preparation Points

  • Stay updated on the current situation in Lebanon.
  • Familiarize yourself with basic Lebanese Arabic phrases.
  • Read about Lebanese culture and etiquette.
  • Inform your bank about travel plans.

Home Prep Checklist

Ensure peace of mind while away.

Before You Go

  • Inform family or trusted friends of your itinerary.
  • Secure your home before departure.
  • Automate bill payments if possible.
  • Arrange for mail collection or plant care.

Document Management

  • Make digital and physical copies of documents.
  • Store copies separately from originals.
  • Save emergency contacts on your phone.
  • Confirm airport transfer arrangements.

Final Checks

  • Verify Wi-Fi availability at accommodation.
  • Charge all electronic devices.
  • Organize travel documents for easy access.
  • Final flight status confirmation.

International Driving

If planning to drive, acquire an International Driving Permit (IDP). It complements your national license.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours in Beirut can be busy.

Initial Steps

  • 1
    Immigration:

    Complete visa on arrival if eligible.

  • 2
    Luggage:

    Collect your bags from baggage claim.

  • 3
    Transfer:

    Locate pre-booked airport transfer or official taxi.

Immediate Needs

  • Local SIM:

    Purchase a local SIM for mobile data at the airport.

  • Orientation:

    Take a walk around your neighborhood.

  • Currency:

    Exchange a small amount of USD for LBP from a reputable changer.

Orientation & Purchases

Settle In

Organize your belongings at your accommodation.

Familiarize yourself with immediate surroundings.

Hydration

Purchase bottled water upon arrival.

Tap water is not generally safe for drinking.

Airport Transit

Use official airport taxis or ride-sharing apps (Bolt/Uber).

Avoid unregistered solicitations for your safety.

Connectivity Advice

Immediate mobile data via a local SIM card streamlines your initial hours in Beirut.

Departure Preparation

Ensuring a smooth departure from Beirut.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Plan souvenir shopping with ample time.
  • Research international shipping costs for large items.
  • Shipping from Lebanon can be expensive.
  • Consider Eagle Creek for travel organization products for gifts and goods.

Tax Refund & Timing

  • Lebanon has a VAT system. Tourists claim refunds.
  • Look for 'Tax Free' signs, request refund forms at purchase.
  • Refund process at airport, show purchased goods.
  • Arrive 2-3 hours before international flight; factor in traffic.

VAT Refund Procedure

Lebanon has a VAT (Value Added Tax) system for tourists.

Claiming Your Refund

  • Look for "Tax Free" signs:In participating shops
  • Request form:At time of purchase
  • Airport process:Upon departure
  • Required:Show purchased goods

Return Trip Planning

  • Reconfirm your flight details.
  • Ensure all necessary documents are accessible.
  • Convert remaining LBP to USD at the airport.
  • Prepare for your next destination or home country re-entry.

Currency Conversion

Convert any remaining Lebanese Pounds to USD at the airport. Rates might differ from city rates.

Confirm your next destination's entry documents.