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San Juan Travel Checklist

San Juan Travel Checklist

San Juan San Juan, Puerto Rico Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

A well-organized approach to your pre-trip planning sets the stage for a calm and enjoyable visit.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Break down your preparations into manageable stages for a systematic approach.

3M+

Months Out or more

Passport & Visa Check

Check your passport's validity. Non-U.S. Citizens: research and apply for U.S. Visas or ESTA.

Book Flights & Accommodations

Secure flights and major accommodations, especially for high season or holidays.

Travel Insurance

Research and purchase comprehensive Travel insurance.

1M

Month Out

Finalize Itinerary & Tours

Detail your itinerary. Reserve popular tours (e.g., bioluminescent bay) and activities.

Arrange Ground Transport

Confirm rental car reservations, plan airport transfers, consider local transport.

Health Consultation & Financial Notification

Consult doctor for vaccinations. Notify bank and inform your credit card companies of your trip.

1W

Week Out

Confirm All Reservations

Double-check all flight, accommodation, rental car, and excursion reservations.

Pack & Copy Documents

Begin packing. Ensure digital copies of all important documents are stored securely.

Inform Contacts & Home Security

Share itinerary with family. Arrange pet care, hold mail, secure your home.

Required Advance Bookings

These items often need to be booked well in advance to guarantee availability and good rates.

Reservations to Prioritize

  • Flights should be booked well in advance, particularly during busy travel periods.
  • Accommodations, notably popular properties or during high season, need early booking.
  • Popular tours like the Bioluminescent Inlet or guided El Yunque trips must be reserved in advance.
  • Rental cars are crucial for exploring the island independently and should be reserved early.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Gain insights before setting off to enrich your experience.

Areas of Focus for Research

  • Read guidebooks and explore official tourism websites like Discover The Island of enchantment.
  • Check current events and festival calendars for San Juan and the greater island.
  • Familiarize yourself with local practices and basic Spanish phrases.
  • Read recent travel blogs or forums for recent tips and recommendations from other travelers.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Address these home-front details to depart with peace of mind.

Household Logistics

  • Stop or hold mail and newspaper deliveries.
  • Pay any bills that become due during your trip.
  • Arrange for pet sitters or boarding.
  • Adjust thermostat and water heater settings.

Security & Contacts

  • Secure your home (lock windows/doors, put on alarms).
  • Leave spare keys and emergency contact info with a trusted neighbor.
  • Share your itinerary and emergency contacts with family.
  • Keep a record of important phone numbers (hotel, airline, bank) handy.

Final Checks

  • Unplug unnecessary electronics to save energy.
  • Empty all trash cans.
  • Turn off main water supply if gone for an extended period.
  • Turn off all lights.

Affiliate Tip: Packing

For smart and efficient packing, consider using travel organization products from Eagle Creek.

Arrival Checklist

Ensure a smooth transition upon landing in San Juan with these first steps.

Immediate Steps Upon Arrival

  • Immigration/Customs:

    Clear procedures for international arrivals.

  • Luggage Collection:

    Collect your checked luggage at the baggage claim.

  • Local Currency:

    Use an ATM at the airport to withdraw some U.S. Dollars if cash is needed.

Orientation & Transportation

  • Transportation:

    Locate your reserved-booked transfer, taxi stand, or ride-share pick-up zone.

  • Accommodation Check-in:

    Proceed to your hotel or accommodation to check-in.

  • Immediate Surroundings:

    Take a short walk around your accommodation to learn about the area.

Currency and Initial Purchases

ATMs

ATMs are the simplest method to get cash upon arrival.

Most airports and major hotels have readily available ATM machines.

Necessities

Purchase immediate necessities like bottled water and snacks.

Consider a local SIM card if you desire immediate mobile connectivity.

Airport to Accommodation

Utilize your pre-booked shuttle, a certified taxi, or a lift-sharing service.

Have your accommodation address readily available for a smooth ride.

Arrival Tip

Having your accommodation address handy plus a tiny amount of local currency can greatly ease your first hours in San Juan.

Departure Preparation

Organize your final steps before leaving San Juan for a stress-free departure.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

  • Purchase souvenirs a few days before departure.
  • Be mindful of airline luggage restrictions and weight limits for your purchases.
  • If shipping items home, arrange this through USPS or a shipping company well before leaving.
  • VAT refund procedures are not applicable as Puerto Rico is part of the U.S. Customs territory.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

  • Arrive at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) at least 2-3 hours before domestic flights.
  • Allow 3 hours for international flights, especially during peak travel times.
  • For cruise departures, follow your cruise line's specific instructions for disembarkation timing.
  • Confirm flight details and organize luggage efficiently.

Departure Logistics

Ensure a smooth exit with these final considerations.

Final Checks

  • Confirm flight or cruise departure times.
  • Check-out from your accommodation on schedule.
  • Gather all personal belongings and documents.
  • Plan your transport to the airport or port.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Double-check your flight departure time and gate information.
  • Organize your luggage, confirming all personal belongings are accounted for.
  • Arrange for a late check-out if needed, or store luggage at the hotel.
  • Inform your trusted contact at home about your departure time.

Departure Reminder

Always confirm your flight status before heading to the airport.

Allow extra time for security checks, especially during peak travel periods.