Lilongwe Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Essential Preparations Before Leaving Home

A structured timeline for pre-departure actions.

Chronological Planning Timeline

actions leading up to your trip.

Months Before

Passport Validity

Confirm it remains valid for six months beyond departure, with two blank pages.

Visa Requirements

Research; apply for e-Visa via Evisa.gov.mw early.

Health Consultation

Discuss required vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis.

Month Before

Confirm Bookings

Verify international flights, hotels, and major tours.

International Driving Permit

Obtain if planning to drive; this accompanies your national driving license.

Travel Insurance

Arrange comprehensive coverage for medical, evacuation, and trip cancellations from World Nomads.

Week Before

Finalize Packing

Ensure all items are present and adhere to baggage allowances.

Document Copies

Make multiple copies (digital and physical) of all important documents.

App Downloads

Download offline maps and essential apps (e.g., Google Translate with Chichewa language pack).

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Gaining context before your journey.

Research Areas

Read up on Malawian history, culture, and current events.
Familiarize yourself with basic Chichewa phrases; this simple effort gains local appreciation.
Understand common scams and safety precautions specific to Malawi and Lilongwe.
Home preparation: Notify contacts, arrange mail/pet care, secure your residence.

Required Advance Bookings

Securing aspects of your trip.

Essential Reservations

International Flights: Securing these early is significant for availability and price.
Visa (e-Visa): Complete your e-Visa application before departure.
Safari Lodges/Tours: Popular options book in advance, especially during the dry season.
High-End Hotels or Specific Guesthouses: Book these in advance, notably if traveling during peak season.

Home Preparation

Secure your home before departing.

Household Arrangements

Arrange for mail collection.
Plan for pet care.
Arrange for house-sitting if needed.
Secure your home (lock doors/windows, set alarms, inform neighbors).

Document Management

Make multiple copies (digital and physical) of all important documents.
Store digital copies on cloud storage or email them to yourself.
Notify your bank and credit card companies of travel plans.
Charge all your electronic devices before departure.

Currency & Connectivity

Exchange a small amount of Malawian Kwacha or have US Dollars/Euros ready.
Plan to purchase a local SIM card upon arrival.
Plan your daily routes logically to diminish unnecessary travel.
Plan to ask hotel staff for local advice, safe areas, and transportation tips.

Packing Checklist

Make a digital and physical checklist of all items you need to pack. Tick off each item as you pack it to prevent forgetting anything important.

Arrival & Departure

A smooth arrival sets a positive tone for your trip.

Arrival Checklist in Lilongwe

1
Clear Immigration
Have your passport and e-Visa approval letter ready for immigration officers.
2
Collect Luggage
Retrieve your checked luggage from the baggage claim area.
3
Pass Through Customs
Declare any required items and clear customs without delay.

Immediate Actions

Currency Exchange/ATM
Exchange a small amount or withdraw from an ATM for immediate needs.
Local SIM Card
Purchase a local SIM card (Airtel or TNM) from kiosks; passport for registration.
Airport Transfer
Proceed to your pre-arranged transfer or find a reputable taxi; agree on fare before starting.

Orientation & Local Guidance

Settle In

Once at your accommodation, take some time to familiarize yourself with your surroundings.

Identify nearby amenities like supermarkets, ATMs, and reliable restaurants.

Seek Local Advice

Ask hotel staff for local advice, including safe areas to walk and tips for using local transportation.

They represent a good source of current and reliable information.

Initial Purchases

Purchase bottled water and any immediate necessities you might require.

Look for better exchange rates at commercial banks or licensed forex bureaus in the city center once you are settled.

Airport Arrival Timing

Traffic in Lilongwe can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours. Arrive at Kamuzu International Airport (LLW) at least 2-3 hours before your international flight's scheduled departure time.

Departure Preparation from Lilongwe

Ensure a seamless departure from Lilongwe.

Souvenirs & Logistics

Ensure purchased souvenirs comply with customs regulations for your home country.
If shipping large items, arrange with a reliable international courier (e.g., DHL) well in advance.
Malawi does not typically have a VAT refund scheme for tourists.
Allow ample time for your transfer to Kamuzu International Airport (LLW).

Return Trip Readiness

Reconfirm your flight details (time, terminal) 24-48 hours before departure.
Pack essentials for your journey home (medications, comfort items, documents).
Ensure all valuables and required documents (passport, boarding pass) are secured.
Utilize a digital and physical checklist to prevent forgetting items.

Important Travel Pointers

Aspects

Distances can be longBuild in buffer time.
Malawian road conditionsCan slow journeys significantly.
Local directionsAsk multiple people to confirm.
Travel insurance detailsKeep them accessible.

Final Preparations

Pre-booking international flights and e-Visa early is significant for availability.
Familiarize yourself with basic Chichewa phrases for local appreciation.
Confirm your passport's validity for at least six months beyond your departure date.
Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans.

Final Checklist Item

Make a digital and physical checklist of all items you need to pack.

Tick off each item as you pack it to prevent forgetting anything important.

Lilongwe Travel Checklist