Pre-Trip Checklist: Puerto Vallarta

Essential Preparations

Follow this chronological timeline for trip planning.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Steps to follow for a well-organized journey.

+ Months Before

Passport & Visas

Check passport validity (6+ months). Research and start visa application if needed.

Flights & Accommodation

Book flights and accommodation, especially for high season or holidays.

Tours & Health

Book high-demand tours; consult a travel doctor for vaccinations and health precautions.

Month Before

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance (medical, cancellation, activities).

Finances & Driving

Inform banks of travel dates; arrange International Driving Permit if renting.

Dining & Packing

Make restaurant reservations; start creating a detailed packing list.

Week Before

Confirm Bookings

Confirm all bookings: flights, hotels, and tours.

Digital Readiness

Download essential apps (Google Maps, Uber/DiDi, WhatsApp, Google Translate).

Documents & Home

Gather and organize documents (passport, FMM, copies); arrange pet/house care.

Home Preparation

Prepare your home for your absence for peace of mind.

Before Departure

Secure your home: lock all windows and doors.
Stop mail and newspaper delivery.
Arrange for plant watering or other home care.
Unplug unnecessary electronics.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these arrangements ahead of time.

Booking Priorities

Flights and accommodation are top priorities.
Specific popular tours, like Marietas Islands excursions.
High-demand dining reservations.
This is especially important during peak season.

Pre-Trip Research

Informed travel makes for a confident arrival.

Culture & Language

Read up on local culture: customs and etiquette.
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases.
Know local greetings.
Understand dining customs.

Safety & Events

Stay informed about current events.
Monitor any safety advisories for Mexico.
Check local festival dates.
Know local emergency numbers.

Travel Tools

Consider NordVPN for secure browsing.
Check Eagle Creek for travel organization.
For language learning, see Babbel.
Research local transport apps.

Travel Insurance Reminder

Obtain comprehensive travel insurance before departure. This covers medical emergencies and trip cancellations. Consider World Nomads.

Arrival Checklist

These first steps upon arrival smooth your entry.

Immigration & Customs

1
Passport & FMM:
Clear immigration and present your passport with the FMM form.
2
Baggage Claim:
Collect your luggage from the baggage claim area.
3
Customs:
Pass through customs.

Airport Navigation

Timeshare Offers:
Politely decline offers from timeshare representatives.
Transport to Accommodation:
Proceed directly to your planned transport, avoiding solicitation.
Local SIM Card:
Get a local SIM card if not using an international roaming plan.

Initial Setup

Currency Exchange

Obtain some local currency (MXN pesos) from an ATM at the airport or a bank.

Some local currency upon landing is a good idea for immediate needs.

Hydration

Purchase bottled water immediately upon leaving the airport.

This action helps you stay hydrated and avoids tap water.

Neighborhood Orientation

Familiarize yourself with your neighborhood upon arrival.

Note nearby landmarks, restaurants, and convenience stores.

Connectivity Tip

Immediate connectivity on your phone simplifies navigation and communication from the start of your trip.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for a stress-free exit from Puerto Vallarta.

Souvenirs & Flight Timing

Plan your souvenir purchases, especially larger items needing shipping.
Confirm flight status the day before and on the day of departure.
Allow ample time to get to the airport: 3 hours for international, 2 hours for domestic.
Traffic can be unpredictable, so plan your travel time accordingly.

Return Trip Details

Ensure your FMM departure slip is ready for immigration.
Reconfirm any onward travel arrangements from your arrival airport.
Leave enough time for customs and security upon return to your home country.
Charge all electronic devices.

VAT IVA Refunds

Mexico has a VAT (IVA), but refund procedures for tourists are complex.

Refund Practicality

Often not practical for typical tourist purchases.Complex Process
Check with specific luxury retailers if it might apply.Limited Scope
May require significant paperwork.Bureaucracy
This is not a commonly claimed tourist benefit.Rarely Claimed

Final Departure Tips

Reconfirm onward travel arrangements.
Keep all travel documents accessible.
Consider airport lounge access for comfort.
Have local currency for small last-minute purchases.

Smooth Exit

Confirm all details and allow ample time to reach the airport.

Pre-Trip Checklist