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Ixtapa Travel Checklist

Ixtapa Travel Checklist

Ixtapa Guerrero, Mexico Travel Guide

Essential Preparations Timeline

Follow this timeline to organize your trip effectively.

Planning Chronology

Break down your preparations into manageable steps across a timeline.

3+

Months Before

Passport & Flights

Check passport validity (6 months recommended). Book flights and main accommodation.

Visa & Insurance

Check visa requirements. Research and purchase travel insurance (like World Nomads).

Health Consult

Consult your doctor for vaccination recommendations. Plan for multiple doses if needed.

1

Month Before

Confirm Bookings

Confirm all arrangements for flights, hotels, and major tours.

Transfers & Banks

Arrange airport transfers. Notify banks/inform your credit card companies of your trip.

Packing & Apps

Start your list of articles to bring. Download offline maps and translation apps (consider NordVPN for security).

1

Week Before

Document Copies

Print or save digital copies of all required documents. Make photocopies and store separately.

Currency & Devices

Confirm currency exchange strategy. Power up all your devices, including power banks.

Home Care

Arrange for pet care or house sitting. Set up mail hold or ask a neighbor to collect mail.

Advance Bookings

Securing elements of your trip in advance is a clever move.

Items to Book Ahead

  • Flights and accommodation, notably during high season.
  • Popular deep-sea fishing charters.
  • Specific resort activities, especially during peak season.
  • This approach makes sure everyone stays together for group travel.

Pre-Trip Research

Familiarize yourself with the destination before you go.

What to Research

  • Familiarize yourself with local customs and basic Spanish phrases.
  • Review safety tips unique to the region.
  • Research specific restaurants and activities that interest you.
  • Secure your home by checking lights, locks, and alarms before departure.

Arrival Checklist

These steps help you settle in quickly upon arriving in Ixtapa.

First Steps

  • Immigration: Present your passport and FMM.
  • Customs: Collect luggage, proceed through customs.
  • Ground Transportation: Head to pre-arranged transfer or official taxi booth.
  • Orientation: Get a local map, locate hotel amenities.

Settling In

  • Currency: Use an ATM for initial cash withdrawal in Pesos.
  • Purchases: Buy bottled water immediately; tap water is not safe.
  • Connectivity: Consider buying a local SIM card if needed.
  • Hotel: Identify nearby ATMs, supermarkets, and getting around locally stops.

Safety & Transfers

  • Familiarize yourself with emergency exits and procedures at your accommodation.
  • Use official pre-paid airport cabs or pre-booked-arranged hotel transfers for safety.
  • Avoid unofficial solicitations outside the terminal.
  • Keep an eye on your belongings.

Essential Tip for Arrival

Purchase bottled water immediately upon arrival. Tap water is not safe for drinking.

Departure Preparation

Ensure a smooth departure from Ixtapa.

Souvenir & Packing Guidelines

  • 1
    Souvenir Packing

    Pack souvenirs carefully to avoid breakage during transit.

  • 2
    Liquid Restrictions

    Be aware of liquid restrictions for carry-on luggage if purchasing bottled liquids.

  • 3
    Shipping Options

    If shipping items, arrange with a courier service in Zihuatanejo.

Financial & Flight Aspects

  • VAT Refund

    Mexico has a VAT (IVA) refund system for foreign tourists on buys from participating stores. Keep original receipts.

  • Airport Timing

    Arrive at Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH) at least 2-3 hours before your international flight.

  • Return Flight Confirmation

    Confirm your flight status online. Ensure you have the exit portion of your TOURIST card ready to surrender.

Departure Travel Tips

Traffic Considerations

Allow extra time for potential traffic to the airport, especially during peak hours.

Traffic can vary greatly depending on the day and time.

Wet Season Flights

If traveling during the wet season, consider booking an early morning flight.

This helps avoid potential afternoon storms that may delay travel.

Final Document Check

Double-check that all your travel documents are in order and easily accessible.

This covers passports, boarding passes, and any visa confirmations.

Important Note on Documentation

Ensure you have the departure portion of your VISITOR permit ready to surrender at the airport.

Home Preparation

Prepare your home before you leave for your trip.

House Security

  • Secure your home by checking all locks and alarms.
  • Consider smart home devices to control lights remotely.
  • Unplug non-necessary gadgets to save energy and for safety.
  • Be certain all windows are securely closed.

Household Care

  • Arrange for pet care (sitter, boarding).
  • Secure a house-sitter if you prefer your home occupied.
  • Have your plants watered if you have indoor or outdoor plants.
  • Set up a mail hold with your postal service or ask a neighbor to collect mail.

Check Before You Go

A final check before walking out the door.

Last Minute Items

  • Trash Emptied?Yes/No
  • Windows Locked?Yes/No
  • Water Heater Off?Yes/No (if applicable)
  • Main Water Valve Off?Yes/No (if applicable)

Digital Checklist

  • Upload copies of documents to cloud storage.
  • Download offline maps for Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo.
  • Download offline language packs for your translation app.
  • Ensure your mobile roaming plan is active or consider a local SIM card.

Final Home Tip

Empty all trash cans to prevent odors when you are not home.

This simple step makes your return more pleasant.

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