Pre-Trip Checklist: Honiara

Essential Preparations

A timeline to guide your comprehensive travel planning.

Planning Milestones

steps to take at different stages before your departure.

Early Planning 3+ Months

Visas & Passport

Research visa requirements; apply if needed. Passport valid 6+ months beyond departure.

Health & Insurance

Consult doctor for vaccinations and antimalarials. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance (e.g., World Nomads).

Flight Bookings

Book international flights to Honiara (HIR) via regional hubs.

Mid-Term 1 Month Before

Domestic Travel

Book domestic flights with Solomon Airlines for outer islands.

Accommodation & Transfers

Secure main hotel/guesthouse bookings. Arrange airport transfers.

Tours & Permits

Pre-book essential tours or dive packages. Obtain International Driving Permit if renting.

Final Week Preparations

Confirmations

Reconfirm all flights, accommodations, and tours before travel.

Financial & Documents

Notify bank of travel plans. Make digital and physical copies of documents.

Electronic Readiness

Charge all electronic devices and power banks. Exchange some local currency for arrival.

Booking Essentials

items for booking well in advance.

Advance Reservations

International flights (e.g., Solomon Airlines, Fiji Airways).
Domestic flights (Solomon Airlines for outer islands).
Main hotel and guesthouse accommodations.
Reputable dive operations and tours.

Pre-Trip Research

Recommended Research

Deepen knowledge of Guadalcanal's World War II history.
Learn basic Pijin phrases for better interactions.
Understand local customs and etiquette.
Review travel advisories for safety updates.

Important Reminder

A thorough pre-trip checklist creates a more relaxed and enjoyable journey.

On-Trip Essentials

Your initial actions create a swift and smooth settlement.

Arrival & First Steps

1
Immigration & Customs
Have passport, visa, return ticket, and accommodation details ready for clearance.
2
Local Currency
Obtain Solomon Islands Dollars at the airport's currency exchange or an ATM.
3
Connectivity
Buy a local SIM card from Our Telekom or Bmobile-Vodafone at the airport.

Orientation & Transfer

Airport Transfer
Use your pre-arranged hotel shuttle or negotiate a taxi fare before departure.
Navigation Aids
If available, obtain a physical map of Honiara upon arrival.
Consular Support
Keep the contact details for your country's embassy or consulate handy.

Local Services & Offerings

Dining & Food

Seek local eateries for affordable meals.

Honiara Central Market presents fresh produce.

Accommodation Types

Guesthouses offer intimate, local stays.

Hotels include more amenities and services.

Health & Medical

National Referral Hospital is the main facility.

Inquire about local clinics via your accommodation.

Health Advisory

Stay hydrated in the tropical climate and apply insect repellent to guard against mosquitoes.

Departure Preparations

Prepare for your departure from Honiara for a seamless exit.

Luggage & Logistics

Plan your souvenir purchases in advance.
Be aware of customs regulations in your home country regarding imports.
Shipping items from the Solomon Islands can incur high costs and be slow.
Consider packing fragile items carefully in your checked luggage.

Departure Timing

The Solomon Islands holds no Value Added Tax (VAT) refund system for tourists.
Arrive at Honiara International Airport at least 2-3 hours before your international flight.
Check-in procedures can be slow, and security lines may take time.
Reconfirm your international flight details and any connecting flights.

Essential Departure Checks

Confirming all details for your journey home.

Checklist

Confirm Onward FlightsVerify your international and connecting flight details.
Pack Liquids for Checked LuggagePlace containers over 100ml in checked baggage.
No Prohibited Items in Carry-onReview restrictions for dangerous goods or oversized items.
Clear Immigration FormalitiesHave your passport and boarding pass ready for exit.

Additional Tips

Prepare for customs declarations upon re-entry in your home country.
Consider local transport to the airport well ahead of time.
Ensure all personal belongings find accounting.
Reflect on your Honiara journey and its unique discoveries.

Smooth Departure

Allow ample time at the airport for check-in and security.

Ensure all documents are easily accessible for a seamless exit.

Pre-Trip Checklist