MileHacker Logo
Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Lebanon

Essential Preparations

Milestones

Follow these steps for a well-prepared travel experience.

1

Months Before

Passport Validity

Your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Lebanon.

Visa Requirements

Determine if you need a visa for Lebanon and begin the application process if an advance visa is required.

Flight Bookings

Secure international flights to and from Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY).

2

Month Before

Tyre Accommodation

Reserve your guesthouse or hotel, especially for popular boutique properties with limited availability.

Health Consult

Discuss required and recommended vaccinations for Lebanon with your healthcare provider.

Financial Alert

Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates and destinations.

3

Week Before

Booking Confirmations

Re-confirm your flights, hotel reservations, and any pre-booked transfers or tours.

Document Copies

Create both digital and physical copies of your passport and other documents.

Packing & Power

Charge all electronics and download offline maps and translation apps.

Insurance & Documentation

Securing your trip with coverage and proper documents.

Travel Protection

  • Purchase comprehensive travel insurance, like from World Nomads.
  • Ensure coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and personal liability.
  • Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) if you plan to rent a car.
  • Gather enough US Dollars in small denominations for initial expenses.

Travel Essentials

Packing right sets the tone for your adventure.

Packing for Climate

  • Pack climate-appropriate clothing and comfortable footwear.
  • Include sun protection like hats and sunscreen.
  • Consider a light rain jacket if traveling during shoulder seasons.
  • Utilize packing organizers from Eagle Creek for efficient packing.

Final Checks

Digital Preparedness

  • Offline maps are downloaded.
  • Translation apps are ready.
  • All devices are fully charged.
  • Wi-Fi access checked for accommodation.

Financial Readiness

  • Sufficient USD cash on hand.
  • Bank notified of travel.
  • Budget reviewed for the trip.
  • Emergency funds accessible.

Safety Measures

  • Emergency contacts noted.
  • Documents secured.
  • Basic first aid kit packed.
  • Travel insurance details saved.

Useful Reminder

Always keep digital and physical copies of your essential travel documents separate from the originals.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours upon arrival in Lebanon are important for a smooth transition to Tyre.

First Steps at BEY

  • Clear Immigration

    Proceed through immigration, presenting your passport and any visa documentation.

  • Purchase Local SIM

    If desired, buy a tourist SIM card from Alfa or Touch at the airport for immediate connectivity.

  • Exchange Currency

    Exchange a small amount of USD to LBP if you need local currency for initial small purchases.

Tyre Orientation

  • Familiarize Neighborhood

    Take a short walk around your guesthouse to locate nearby landmarks and main streets.

  • Locate Essentials

    Identify the nearest ATMs, pharmacies, and convenient dining options.

  • Arrange Airport Transfer

    Take a pre-booked private taxi, negotiate a fare for an airport taxi, or use the "service" taxi route.

Smooth Transition

Effortless Entry

Having documents ready at immigration saves time and effort.

Instant Connectivity

A local SIM card connects you instantly, aiding navigation and communication.

Reliable data access facilitates mapping and researching local spots.

Local Familiarity

An initial walk around your neighborhood helps you gain confidence and orientation.

Settling In

These steps contribute to settling quickly and efficiently into Tyre.

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Purchase souvenirs in the Old Souk; focus on local olive oil, za'atar, and handicrafts.
  • Be aware of airline baggage allowances if buying heavy items like olive oil.
  • Shipping internationally can be costly; consider an extra foldable travel bag for purchases.
  • Keep receipts for any larger purchases for customs purposes.

Travel Logistics

  • Allow ample time for transfer from Tyre to BEY (1.5-2 hours, plus traffic buffer).
  • Arrive at BEY 2-3 hours before international flight departure for check-in and security.
  • Confirm your flight status the day before and on the day of departure.
  • Pack carefully, securing all valuables and fragile items.

Financial Wrap-up

Ensure all financial matters are in order before departing.

Final Checks

  • Settle any outstanding bills.
  • Withdraw enough local currency for immediate needs.
  • Convert remaining LBP to USD if desired.
  • Ensure all credit card transactions are cleared.

Document Review

  • Double-check all travel documents are secure and ready for departure.
  • Confirm digital copies of documents are accessible in cloud storage.
  • Ensure identification is easily accessible for airport checks.
  • Review travel insurance details one last time.

Final Checkpoints

Ensure you have all necessary travel documents readily accessible.