Pre-Trip Checklist: Kota Kinabalu

Essential Preparations

Details to handle before departure for a seamless trip.

Planning Timeline

Organize your preparations for peace of mind.

+ Months Out

Passport & Visa

Check validity, apply for visas.

Mount Kinabalu Permits

Book these highly limited permits.

International Flights

Secure better prices and availability.

Month Out

Accommodation & Tours

Book your entire stay and major activities.

Health Consult

Check vaccinations and prescriptions.

Bank Notification

Inform your bank of travel plans.

Week Out

Confirm Bookings

Double-check all flights, hotels, and tours.

Download Apps

Get Grab, Google Maps, and Google Translate ready.

Arrange Transfers

Organize airport transport if needed.

Advance Bookings

Certain items require early booking.

Reservations

Mount Kinabalu permits sell out far in advance.
Luxury resorts and dive resorts have high demand.
Specific dive resorts with Sipadan access fill up.
Research needs early in your planning.

Pre-Trip Insights

research enhances your trip.

Research Deeply

Review this comprehensive travel guide.
Research specific interests you have.
Look at recent travel blogs for current conditions.
Check forums for recent traveler experiences.

Home Readiness

Prepare your home before you leave.

Inform Contacts

Inform family or friends of your itinerary.
Provide them with emergency contacts.
Share important numbers.
Share your travel dates.

Pet & Plant Care

Arrange care for pets if needed.
Organize watering for plants.
Ensure everything is watered.
Peace of mind at home.

Home Security

Secure your home: lock doors, windows.
Stop mail or arrange pick-up.
Use lights or timers for security.
Pay any bills coming due.

Travel Insurance

Secure your journey with comprehensive travel insurance from World Nomads. It covers medical emergencies and trip cancellations.

Arrival & Departure

Smooth transitions for your trip.

Arrival Essentials

1
Immigration
Complete Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) beforehand.
2
Currency & SIM
Get local currency (MYR) from ATM, purchase a SIM card.
3
Hydration
Buy bottled water; stay hydrated in the tropical heat.

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs
Plan souvenir purchases, research shipping if items are large.
VAT & Tax
Malaysia does not have a VAT refund scheme for tourists.
Airport Timing
Allow 2.5-3 hours for international, 1.5-2 hours domestic.

Considerations

Document Copies

Keep digital copies on the cloud.

Store physical copies in a separate bag from originals.

Emergency Contacts

Inform family or friends of your itinerary.

Provide emergency contacts for peace of mind.

Home Security

Secure your home: lock doors, windows.

Stop mail, arrange for lights or timers.

Baggage Tips

Check your baggage allowance to avoid excess baggage fees. Weigh your luggage before heading to the airport.

Final Reminders

Concluding notes for a memorable travel experience.

Smart Packing

Pack climate-appropriate clothing.
Bring essential gear for your activities.
Repack luggage efficiently.
Consider Eagle Creek packing organizers.

Connectivity Abroad

Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival.
This provides immediate connectivity.
Use NordVPN for secure connections on public Wi-Fi.
Stay connected and safe.

Travel Details

Ensure smooth travel with these final checks.

Essential Document Checklist

Passport:Checked
Visa:Confirmed
Boarding Pass:Ready
Sabah Departure Slip:Kept safe

Airport Departure

Confirm flight details and terminal.
Weigh luggage to avoid excess fees.
Liquids over carry-on limits in checked bags.
Allow ample time for airport arrival.

Final Confirmation

Ensure all bookings are confirmed and documents ready.

Travel with confidence and peace of mind.