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Johannesburg Travel Checklist

Johannesburg Travel Checklist

Johannesburg Gauteng, South Africa Travel Guide

Planning Your Journey

A structured approach to your preparations leads to a more relaxing plus rewarding travel experience.

Your Comprehensive Travel Blueprint

A structured approach to your preparations leads to a more relaxing and fulfilling travel experience.

1

Early Planning 3 Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check your passport validity and apply for any required visas.

Book International Flights

Book your international flights, especially if traveling during high season.

Research & Vaccinations

Begin researching main sights and schedule vaccine appointments.

2

Mid-Stage Tasks 1 Month Before

Accommodation & Tours

Book all accommodation and any required tours or car rental.

Travel Insurance & IDP

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance and arrange an International Driving Permit.

Banking & Packing List

Notify your bank of travel plans and start compiling your detailed packing list.

3

Final Touches 1 Week Before

Confirm Bookings

Reconfirm all flight, accommodation, tour, and transfer bookings.

Prepare Documents & Apps

Print or save digital copies of all documents; download essential apps.

Home Preparation

Arrange for home security, pet care, or mail collection.

Required Advance Bookings and Reservations

Ensure availability and secure group rates for your trip.

Secure Your Trip

  • International and domestic flights.
  • All accommodation (hotels, guesthouses, hostels).
  • Popular tours (e.g., Soweto, Cradle of Humankind).
  • Car rental (if planning to drive).

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Empower your trip with local knowledge.

Be Informed

  • Safety Information: Research for specific neighborhoods you plan to visit.
  • Loadshedding: Familiarize yourself with how it works and check schedules.
  • Cultural Norms: Learn basic phrases and cultural etiquette.
  • Dietary Needs: Research food and dining options if you have specific dietary requirements.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Ensure peace of mind at home while you explore Johannesburg.

Security

  • Secure your home by locking all doors and windows.
  • Unplug non-essential electronics.
  • Stop mail delivery or arrange for collection.
  • Inform a trusted friend or family member of your itinerary.

Bills & Finances

  • Pay any upcoming bills.
  • Let your bank know you're traveling.
  • Set up automatic payments if possible.
  • Ensure sufficient funds for trip and home expenses.

Pet & Plant Care

  • Arrange for pet care (sitter, boarding).
  • Organize plant watering.
  • Empty bins and tidy up perishable items.
  • Leave emergency contact details for home care.

A Travel Insurance Reminder

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. World Nomads.

Arrival & Departure

A well-organized arrival and departure set a positive tone for your entire journey.

Arrival Checklist

  • 1
    Clear Immigration & Customs

    At O.R. Tambo International Airport.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage

    Then proceed to your pre-booked transfer.

  • 3
    Currency & SIM

    Exchange currency or withdraw ZAR; purchase a local SIM card.

Orientation Strategies

  • Proceed directly to your pre-booked accommodation or transfer option.
  • Upon arrival, familiarize yourself with your immediate neighborhood during daylight.
  • Avoid unofficial taxi touts.

Departure Preparation

  • Souvenirs & Shipping:

    Plan purchases considering duty-free. Consider shipping large items.

  • VAT Refund:

    Claim VAT at O.R. Tambo Before check-in (if relevant).

  • Airport Arrival:

    Arrive 3 hours for international, 1.5-2 for domestic. Factor traffic.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Confirm return flight details (time, terminal, gate).
  • Pack remaining souvenirs; ensure liquids comply with regulations.
  • Have all travel documents (passport, boarding pass) accessible.

Packing Essentials

Main Luggage

Clothing for various weather conditions.

Comfortable walking shoes.

Electronics & Adaptors

Portable power bank.

Universal adapter (Type M).

Health & Safety

Basic first-aid kit, hand sanitizer.

Any of your own medicines.

Packing Organizers

Efficient packing with organizers. Eagle Creek.

VAT Refund Procedures if applicable

Visitors can claim back VAT (Value Added Tax) paid on goods purchased in South Africa, provided the value exceeds R250 and the goods are taken out of the nation.

Process for Claiming VAT

  • Apply at the VAT Refund Administration office at O.R. Tambo International Airport.
  • This must happen before checking in your luggage for your international flight.
  • Keep all original tax invoices and documentation of purchase.
  • Goods must be visible for inspection by officials.

Required Documentation

  • Your passport with valid visa (if applicable).
  • Your international boarding pass.
  • Completed VAT refund form.
  • Details for your preferred refund method.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

Plan your airport arrival strategically to avoid stress.

Timings

  • International Flights:3 hours prior
  • Domestic Flights:1.5-2 hours prior
  • Traffic Considerations:Allow extra time during peak hours
  • VAT Refund (if applicable):Before luggage check-in

Return Trip Preparation

  • Confirm your return flight details (time, terminal, gate).
  • Pack whatever remaining souvenirs and ensure all liquids in carry-on bags adhere to airline regulations.
  • Ensure all travel documents (passport, boarding pass) are easily accessible.
  • Notify friends or family of your expected arrival home.

Last-Minute Checks

Double-check all necessary travel documents and reservations before heading to the airport.

Factor in potential traffic delays to O.R. Tambo, especially during peak hours.

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