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Leon De Los Aldama Travel Checklist

Leon De Los Aldama Travel Checklist

Leon De Los Aldama Guanajuato, Mexico Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Plan your trip chronologically to manage tasks effectively.

Chronological Planning Timeline

actions to take at different stages before your departure.

3

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Confirm passport validity for six months beyond return. Research visa needs and apply if required.

Flights & Insurance

Look up and book flights to Del Bajío International Airport (BJX). Purchase travel insurance.

Health Check

Visit your doctor to discuss recommended vaccinations and preventative medications.

1

Month Before

Accommodation & Itinerary

Book all types of accommodations in León and for day trips. Create a rough itinerary.

Banking & Transport

Notify your bank of travel dates. Arrange for a rental car if self-driving.

Packing Research

Begin considering what to pack based on climate and activities.

1

Week Before

Confirmations & Cash

Double-check all reservations. Obtain some Mexican Pesos or plan ATM use.

Documents & Apps

Print/store digital copies of documents. Get offline maps and translation apps.

Medications & Packing

Secure all required prescription medications with doctor's notes. Start packing luggage.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these articles beforehand to avoid availability issues.

Bookings

  • Flights: Absolutely required for air travel to and from your destination.
  • Accommodations: Essential, especially during high season or major events.
  • Popular Tours: For hot air balloon rides or multi-day organized excursions, book ahead.
  • Rental Car: Book in advance to secure availability and better rates.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Information to review for a smoother travel experience.

Research Topics

  • Local Customs and Etiquette: Review social norms for respectful interactions.
  • Safety Information: Read up on current safety advice for León and Mexico.
  • Typical Weather: Reconfirm the weather forecast for your travel dates.
  • Public Transport System: Become acquainted with the Optibús system.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Arrange these details at home for a worry-free trip.

Pet & Mail Care

  • Pet Care: Arrange for pet sitters or boarding.
  • Mail: Put a hold on your mail or ask a neighbor to collect it.
  • Neighbors: Notify a trusted neighbor of your travel plans.
  • Emergency Contacts: Leave emergency contact information with them.

Home Security

  • Secure Home: Lock all windows and doors before leaving.
  • Alarms: Set any security alarms you possess.
  • Timers: Arrange for lights to be on timers if desired for security.
  • Unplug Electronics: Consider unplugging non-essential electronics.

Financial & Logistics

  • Bills: Pay any bills that will come due while you're out of town.
  • Waste: Empty all trash bins before leaving.
  • Water: Turn off your main water supply if away for an extended period.
  • Spare : Leave a spare with a trusted contact.

Final Home Check

A thorough check of your home before leaving safeguards your property and provides peace of mind.

Arrival Checklist

These steps aid in settling in smoothly upon arriving in León.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Clear Immigration:

    Have your passport and documents ready. Confirm your authorized stay duration.

  • 2
    Collect Baggage:

    Proceed to baggage claim and retrieve your luggage efficiently.

  • 3
    Currency/SIM:

    Exchange a small amount or use an ATM for pesos. Purchase a local SIM if desired.

Orientation & Transfers

  • Airport Transfer:

    Find your pre-arranged shuttle or authorized airport taxi. Know pickup spots for ride-sharing.

  • Accommodation Address:

    Have your hotel or rental address handy, preferably in Spanish, for your driver.

  • Get Bearings:

    Upon arrival, use a map or GPS to gain a general sense of your surroundings.

Currency & Transportation

Initial Cash & Water

Possess enough cash for immediate expenses (taxi, snacks, tips). Purchase bottled water immediately.

An affiliate link to a travel wallet Eagle Creek can be useful here.

Airport Transfers

Pre-arranged shuttles or authorized airport taxis provide the most stress-free option for transport from BJX.

For ride-sharing (Uber/Didi), follow the driver's instructions for off-terminal pickup areas.

Public Transit

If using the public bus from BJX, know how to reach your accommodation from León's Central de Autobuses.

Seamless Landing

Having your arrival logistics sorted beforehand lessens pressure and aids you to begin exploring León sooner.

Departure Preparation

Ensure a smooth departure from León.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Pack souvenirs, especially fragile items, securely in your checked luggage.
  • Adhere to airline baggage weight and size limits to avoid excess fees.
  • For large purchases (e.g., leather goods from Eagle Creek), inquire about shipping options.
  • VAT Refund (if applicable): Mexico has an IVA refund program for foreign tourists on purchases over 1,200 MXN.

Pre-Departure Timing

  • Arrive at Del Bajío International Airport (BJX) 2-3 hours before an international flight.
  • For domestic flights, plan to arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
  • Arrive at the Central de Autobuses 30-45 minutes before bus departure.
  • Confirm your flight or bus status online before leaving for the terminal.

Return Trip Preparation

Final checks to complete before your journey home.

Packing & Documents

  • Pack Efficiently:Organize luggage for your return journey.
  • Documents Ready:Ensure all travel documents are easily accessible.
  • Final Room Check:Do a final check of your hotel room for forgotten items.
  • Confirm Transport:Confirm your transfer to the airport or bus terminal.

Post-Trip Follow-up

  • Share your good experiences and photos online.
  • Leave reviews for accommodations and tour operators.
  • Check your bank statements for any unauthorized transactions.
  • Reflect on fewerons learned for future responsible travel.

Smooth Departure

Following these steps for departure aids a stress-free end to your León journey.

Be sure to declare any purchases as per your home country's customs regulations.