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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Tabasco And Chiapas, Mexico

Essential Preparations

Chronological organization of preparations prevents last-minute stress and ensures order before your Palenque departure.

Planning Timeline

A structured timeline for your Palenque journey.

1

+ Months Before Departure

Passport Validity

Check passport validity (6+ months). Begin renewal if needed.

International Flights

Book international and connecting domestic flights early for better prices.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance (medical, evacuation, interruption).

2

-2 Months Before Departure

Accommodations

Book main accommodations, especially for high season.

Major Tours

Plan and book major tours (Yaxchilan/Bonampak) in advance.

Vaccinations

Visit your doctor for any required or recommended vaccinations.

3

-4 Weeks Before Departure

Confirmations

Reconfirm all flight, hotel, and tour reservations.

Packing Essentials

Start packing climate-appropriate clothing, documents, and a first-aid kit. Consider Eagle Creek for organizers.

Bank Notification

Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates.

Required Advance Bookings

Securing elements prior to arrival.

Reservations

  • International and domestic flights.
  • Main hotel or accommodation bookings.
  • Popular multi-day tours (e.g., Yaxchilan/Bonampak).
  • Long-distance bus tickets, especially for premium classes or popular routes.

Home Preparation

Steps for securing your home before departure.

Pre-Departure Checks

  • Arrange for mail collection, pet care, or house-sitting.
  • Secure all windows and doors.
  • Turn off unnecessary electronics and lights.
  • Order some local currency (Mexican Pesos) or plan to withdraw from an ATM upon arrival.

Pre-Trip Research

Foundational knowledge for a richer trip.

Maya History

  • Read up on the history and culture of the Maya civilization.
  • This deepens your visit to the Palenque ruins.
  • Explore historical narratives.
  • Gain context for ancient structures.

Local Customs

  • Understand basic Mexican etiquette.
  • Familiarize yourself with cultural norms.
  • Prepare for respectful interactions.
  • Learn polite gestures.

Safety Advice

  • Familiarize yourself with general travel safety tips.
  • Review specific advice for Chiapas.
  • Stay aware of your surroundings.
  • Take precautions against petty crime.

Early Planning Benefits

Early planning for international flights and peak-season accommodations brings better prices and broader availability.

Arrival Checklist

Initial hours in Palenque shape your trip. A brief checklist supports efficient arrival management.

First Steps

  • 1
    Clear Immigration:

    Present your passport and FMM card to immigration officials. Verify your FMM card is a correct stamp with the proper duration of stay.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage:

    Collect your checked luggage from the baggage claim area.

  • 3
    Customs Process:

    Proceed through customs. You might press a button for a random search (red light for search, green light for no search).

Orientation & Purchases

  • Orientation Strategies:

    Grab a local map from the airport, bus terminal, or your hotel. Ask your hotel staff for directions to nearby attractions.

  • Currency & Purchases:

    Locate an ATM (preferably inside a bank or major store) to withdraw Mexican Pesos. Purchase a local SIM card (e.g., Telcel) and bottled water.

  • Transportation to Accommodation:

    If you pre-arranged a transfer, locate your driver. Otherwise, find a licensed taxi or colectivo to your accommodation. Confirm the fare before starting the ride.

Initial Purchases & Transport

Withdraw Pesos

Locate an ATM (preferably inside a bank or major store) at the airport or in Palenque town to withdraw Mexican Pesos (MXN).

Cash is often preferred by local vendors.

Local SIM Card

If you plan to use a local phone number, purchase a local SIM card (e.g., Telcel) at an Oxxo store or official provider shop in town.

This facilitates communication and data access.

Water Supply

Buy bottled water immediately upon arrival. Tap water in Palenque is not safe to drink.

Staying hydrated is in the tropical climate.

FMM Card Verification

Prior to leaving the airport, ensure your FMM card is a correct stamp. Its loss or an incorrect stamp creates departure issues.

Departure Preparation

Organized departure preparations for a smooth exit from Palenque.

Souvenirs & Customs

  • Purchase Timing: Purchase any last-minute souvenirs a day or two before departure to avoid rushing.
  • Shipping: If you bought large or fragile items, inquire about shipping services from the shop or a local courier office. Be aware of costs and estimated delivery times.
  • Customs Regulations: Recheck your home country's customs regulations regarding items you can bring back (agricultural products, protected materials).
  • VAT Refund Procedures: Mexico offers VAT refunds to international tourists on certain purchases; process at designated kiosks at international airports upon departure (not typically available at Palenque's small airport or bus terminal).

Travel Logistics

  • Pre-Departure Timing: Reconfirm your flight or bus schedule 24-48 hours before departure.
  • Travel Time: Allow ample time for travel to the Palenque bus terminal or airport (PQM, VSA, or TGZ). Factor in potential traffic and road conditions.
  • Return Trip Preparation: Ensure you have your passport, FMM card, and all necessary boarding passes or bus tickets readily accessible.
  • Currency Management: Spend any remaining local currency or save small bills for airport/bus terminal snacks or last-minute purchases.

Pre-Departure Timing

Timely actions for a seamless exit.

Final Checks

  • Reconfirm flight/bus schedule:24-48 hours before
  • Allow travel time to airport/terminal:Ample, factoring traffic
  • Ensure all travel documents are ready:Passport, FMM, tickets
  • Spend remaining local currency:Before airport/bus terminal

Return Trip Preparation

  • Have your passport and FMM card readily accessible.
  • Ensure all necessary boarding passes or bus tickets are ready.
  • Pack your luggage carefully, ensuring no prohibited items exist in carry-on bags.
  • Distribute heavy items evenly in your luggage.

Final Confirmation

Reconfirming your flight or bus departure time the day before informs you of schedule changes, for planning final hours.

This simple step can prevent last-minute stress.