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Perhentian Islands Travel Checklist

Perhentian Islands Travel Checklist

Perhentian Islands Terengganu, Malaysia Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Start planning early for the best options.

Planning Timeline for Your Trip

Strategic steps for a well-organized journey.

1

-6 Months Before High Season

Passport Validity

Passport valid for at least six months beyond stay.

Visa Requirements

Research and apply for Malaysian visa if needed, allowing ample processing time.

Flights & Accommodation

Purchase international airfare to Malaysia and domestic flights to KBR or TGG. Secure island accommodation, especially for high season.

2

Month Before

Confirm Bookings

Confirm all flights, accommodation, and transfers.

Packing & Transfers

Compile packing list. Purchase Reef-safe sunscreen or a Dry bag. Arrange airport transfers to Kuala Besut Jetty.

Bank Notification

Inform bank and credit card company of travel plans to avoid fraud alerts.

3

Week Before

Documents & Cash

Pack original passport, photocopies, digital copies. Withdraw sufficient cash for island stay.

Digital Prep

Download offline maps and translation apps for use without internet.

Final Checks

Notify emergency contacts. Charge electronics. Double-check weather.

Important Bookings & Research

Early bookings secure availability.

Required Reservations

  • Flights (international and domestic) should be booked.
  • Island accommodation prior to arrival.
  • Boat transfers from Kuala Besut to the islands (often resort package).
  • Airport or bus station transfers to Kuala Besut Jetty.

Pre-Trip Research

Background knowledge supports smooth travel.

Research Recommendations

  • Familiarize yourself with Malaysian culture.
  • Read recent traveler reviews for chosen resorts.
  • Understand monsoon season dates to avoid closure period.
  • Learning basic Malay phrases shows respect.

Home Preparation

Secure your home before departure.

Household Tasks

  • Notify trusted contacts of departure and return dates.
  • Arrange for mail collection, pet care, and plant watering.
  • Secure your home, locking all doors and windows.
  • Unplug unnecessary electronics.

Important Reminder

Travel insurance is highly advisable. World Nomads provides coverage for medical emergencies and trip disruptions. See a doctor about vaccinations.

Arrival Checklist

Smooth change from mainland to island life.

First Steps

  • 1
    Clear immigration at first port of entry (e.g., KLIA).

  • 2
    Collect luggage after immigration.

  • 3
    Purchase a local SIM card at the airport (optional).

Orientation

  • Have resort name and contact number written down.

  • Confirm boat transfer from Kuala Besut at jetty.

  • Get simple map from resort to understand island layouts.

Money & Transport

  • Exchange currency at airport or mainland banks.

  • Withdraw sufficient cash at Kuala Besut before boarding boat.

  • Buy bottled water upon arrival on island to stay hydrated.

Getting to Accommodation

  • Follow pre-arranged transfer plan from airport/bus to Kuala Besut Jetty.

  • Take pre-booked speedboat to island accommodation.

  • Resort often coordinates the boat transfer.

Local Transport Guidance

Speedboat Transfers

Speedboats are the main inter-island transport.

Confirm schedule with your resort.

Mainland Taxis

Grab or private taxis offer quick transport from airport to jetty.

Consider pre-booking for convenience.

Bus Services

Long-distance buses connect major cities to Kuala Besut.

A more affordable mainland travel option.

Connectivity Tip

Internet access on the islands can be spotty. Download entertainment or important documents for offline access.

Departure Preparation

Seamless change from island to onward journey.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Purchase desired souvenirs before leaving islands; mainland options are limited.
  • No direct shipping from islands. Arrange from mainland (Kota Bharu/KL).
  • Pack fragile souvenirs with care for transit.
  • Consider local handicrafts as authentic gifts.

Tax & Timing

  • Malaysia's GST is not commonly refunded for small tourist purchases.
  • Confirm boat transfer time from island featuring resort 24 hours before departure.
  • Allow ample buffer time for travel from island to Kuala Besut, then to airport/bus.
  • Unexpected delays can happen; plan accordingly for flights.

Return Journey Info

Final checks for a smooth departure.

Important Reminders

  • Reconfirm return flights or bus tickets.
  • Dispose of all waste responsibly before leaving the islands.
  • Passport and boarding passes ready for journey.
  • Return any rented equipment, like gear for snorkeling.

Packing Considerations

  • Pack light, but carry essentials for island life.
  • A Dry bag for boat transfers protects electronics.
  • Loose, ventilated clothing for tropical climate.
  • Reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste.

Environmental Responsibility

Dispose of all waste responsibly. Avoid littering to protect the islands' pristine beauty.

Consider bringing a reusable water bottle from Eagle Creek.

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