Sahiwal Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Essential Preparations

A structured approach to your preparations.

Timeline for a Smooth Journey

Steps to follow well in advance, and closer to your departure.

1

Months Before: Passport, Visa & Health

Passport Validity

Check your passport for at least six months beyond your travel dates.

Visa Application

Research requirements and begin the application process through the Pakistan Online Visa System.

Vaccinations & Insurance

Consult a travel doctor for necessary shots. Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance.

2

Month Before: Bookings & Language

Accommodation & Transport

Book your stay in Sahiwal and other cities. Plan internal travel (train/bus/private car).

Airport Transfers

Arrange transfers from Lahore or Multan to Sahiwal.

Language & Documents

Begin learning basic Urdu phrases with Babbel. Photocopy and scan all important documents.

3

Week Before: Final Checks & Local Ready

Confirmations & Packing

Confirm all bookings. Pack climate-appropriate clothing using Eagle Creek packing organizers.

Banking & Currency

Inform your bank of travel plans. Arrange local currency or confirm ACCESS to atms.

Download Apps

Download key applications like Careem, Google Maps, and a translation app.

Essential Pre-Bookings

Securing these items well in advance.

Reservations

International flights.
Accommodation in Sahiwal and other cities.
Inter-city train or bus tickets (especially AC classes).
Private car with driver (if opting for this).

Recommended Research

AN immersion into your destination.

Areas to Explore

Read up on the history of the Indus Valley Civilization, specifically Harappa.
Familiarize yourself with Pakistani and Punjabi culture and etiquette.
Check current travel advisories for Pakistan from your government.
Review maps and potential routes for your journey.

Home Preparation

Steps to take at home before your departure. Minimize worries.

Inform Contacts

Inform family or trusted friends of your itinerary.
Share your contact details while abroad.
Leave a copy of your travel dates and flights.
Provide emergency contacts at home.

Secure Your Home

Ensure all doors and windows are locked securely.
Arrange for mail collection.
Halt any newspaper or other deliveries.
Consider smart home security or timers for lights.

Utility Management

Unplug non-essential electronics to save energy.
Turn off water supply if leaving for extended periods.
Adjust thermostat settings to save energy.
Check gas appliances are off.

Helpful Tip: Home Sweet Home Preparations

Inform family or trusted friends of your itinerary and contact details. Secure your home, arrange for mail collection, and halt any deliveries.

Arrival Checklist

These steps help you settle in smoothly upon arriving in Pakistan.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration & Customs:
Clear immigration and customs. Have your printed Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or physical visa ready.
2
Currency Exchange:
Exchange some currency at the airport or withdraw from an ATM.
3
Local SIM Card:
Purchase a a LOCAL sim at the airport if you favor have local mobile service immediately.

Orientation Strategies

Familiarize with Surroundings:
Once at your accommodation, take some time to familiarize yourself with the immediate surroundings.
Locate Amenities:
Locate nearby restaurants, pharmacies, and ATMs for convenience.
Ask Locals:
Don't hesitate to ask hotel staff or locals for direction on the area.

Initial Purchases & Transport

Currency & Small Notes

Ensure you have small denominations of Pakistani Rupees for immediate needs like rickshaw fares or street food.

Larger notes are sometimes difficult to break at small vendors.

Airport to Accommodation

Arrange or locate your pre-booked transportation to Sahiwal. Confirm the best route and mode of transportation from your arrival airport.

This helps avoid confusion upon arrival.

Efficient Routing

Confirm the best route and mode of transportation from your arrival airport (Lahore or Multan) to your Sahiwal accommodation.

Pre-planning is time-saving and potential stress.

Helpful Tip: Seamless Arrival

Arrange or locate your pre-booked transportation to Sahiwal. Confirm the best route and mode of transport from your arrival airport (Lahore or Multan) to your Sahiwal accommodation.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure efficiently to ensure a smooth exit from Sahiwal.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

Purchase any last-minute souvenirs from local markets.
Check your airline's baggage allowances to avoid excess fees.
If shipping items, confirm international courier services and customs regulations.
Ensure fragile items are packed securely for transit.

VAT Refund Procedures

Value Added Tax (VAT) refund procedures are not applicable in Pakistan for tourists.
Tourists cannot claim tax refunds on purchases.
Keep purchase receipts for your records, even though they won't apply to VAT refunds.
All prices typically include any applicable taxes.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allow ample time for airport formalities and travel.

Timings

International Flights:Arrive 2-3 hours prior to departure.
Travel from Sahiwal to Lahore/Multan Airport:Allow 3-4 hours drive time.
Traffic/Fog Delays:Factor in additional buffer for potential delays.
Check-in & Security:Ensure sufficient time for these processes.

Return Trip Preparation

Confirm your return flight details and any onward travel plans.
Arrange your airport transfer well in advance.
Ensure your phone is charged for airport communication.
Have some local currency for last-minute airport purchases.

Helpful Tip: Document Your Luggage

Take a photo of your packed luggage and its contents before leaving home.

This greatly assists if luggage is lost or damaged during transit, aiding insurance claims.

Sahiwal Travel Checklist

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