MileHacker Logo
Welkom Travel Checklist

Welkom Travel Checklist

Welkom Free State, South Africa Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

This section outlines a chronological planning timeline and booking suggestions.

Chronological Planning

Adhere to these steps for structured travel preparation.

1

+ Months Before

Passport Validity

Check passport expiration (30 days beyond departure, two blank pages).

Visa Requirements

Research South Africa's visa needs for your nationality. Apply early.

Health Consultation

Consult doctor for vaccinations (Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Rabies) and prescriptions.

2

-2 Months Before

Domestic Travel

Reserve internal flights (BFN) and all accommodation.

Car Rental

Arrange car rental if self-driving (JNB or BFN airports).

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. World Nomads

3

-2 Weeks Before

Confirm Bookings

Reconfirm all flights, accommodation, and car rental reservations.

Bank Notification

Inform your bank and credit card companies of travel plans.

Packing & Documents

Start packing appropriate clothing. Prepare digital/physical document copies. Organize with Eagle Creek

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these elements for a smooth journey.

Essential Bookings

  • International and domestic flights.
  • All hotels, guesthouses, or self-catering units.
  • Car rental (especially from major airports).
  • Any pre-booked tours or activities.

Pre-Trip Research

Familiarize yourself with aspects.

Information

  • Basic safety guidelines for South Africa and Welkom.
  • A few basic phrases in Sesotho or Afrikaans.
  • Local currency (ZAR) and approximate daily costs.
  • Welkom's unique mining history and urban planning.

Home Preparation

Steps to take before you leave home.

Inform Contacts

  • Inform family/friends of itinerary and contacts.
  • Arrange for mail collection.
  • Arrange for pet care.
  • Arrange for plant watering.

Secure Home

  • Secure home by locking all windows and doors.
  • Activate any alarm systems.
  • Consider smart home security options.
  • Ensure automobiles are secured.

Financial & Admin

  • Pay any outstanding bills before departure.
  • Check internet service for remote access if needed.
  • Confirm any subscriptions or deliveries.
  • Complete urgent work tasks.

Important Reminder

Do not forget to inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to prevent card blockages due to unusual international transactions.

Arrival Checklist

Prepare for a seamless entry and initial orientation.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs

    Clear immigration and customs at your arrival airport (JNB or BFN).

  • 2
    Luggage Collection

    Collect your luggage efficiently.

  • 3
    Transfer Arrangement

    Proceed to your pre-arranged transfer (car rental, shuttle, bus).

Orientation Strategies

  • Accommodation Familiarization

    Familiarize yourself with your accommodation and immediate surroundings.

  • Local SIM Card

    Obtain a local SIM card if needed for communication and data (RICA registration).

  • Necessary Amenities

    Find nearby ATMs, supermarkets, and pharmacies.

Currency & Transport

Currency Exchange

Use an ATM at the airport or in Welkom to get local money (ZAR).

Initial purchases like bottled water or snacks.

Transportation to Accommodation

Follow pre-arranged plans. Pick up your rental car if applicable.

Match your shuttle driver or use a ride-sharing service from the bus terminal.

Local Insight

Be aware that traffic can be unpredictable, plan accordingly.

Always confirm fares when using informal transport.

Connectivity Tip

Think about buying a LOCAL sim upon arrival for simpler navigation and communication. This can greatly assist during your stay.

Departure Preparation

Ensure a smooth departure from Welkom and South Africa.

Souvenir & Shipping

  • Account for luggage weight restrictions if flying.
  • Arrange shipping with a reputable courier service well in advance.
  • Understand customs regulations for exporting/importing goods.
  • Consider packing organizers to optimize space. Explore Eagle Creek

VAT Refund & Timing

  • Tourists may claim VAT on particular goods taken out of the nation.
  • Keep all original tax invoices for eligible purchases.
  • Allow ample time for travel to the airport.
  • Traffic can be unpredictable; plan for delays.

Return Trip Essentials

Final checks before your journey home.

Reminders

  • Reconfirm your onward or return flights.Important Step
  • Ensure all personal belongings are packed.No Forgotten Items
  • Leave sufficient time to get to the airport/bus station.Stress-Free Travel
  • Check accommodation for any forgotten items.Final Scan

Additional Departure Tips

  • Have boarding passes ready for scanning.
  • Keep passport and essential documents handy.
  • Charge your phone for potential long waits.
  • Download entertainment for your journey.

Travel Smart

Make digital copies of your passport, visa, and plane tickets. Email them to yourself and a trusted contact.