MileHacker Logo
Busan Travel Checklist

Planning Milestones

A structured approach to your Busa thrilling journey ensures nothing is forgotten.

Your Planning Journey

steps across your preparation timeline.

1

Months Before

Passport & Visa Check

Check your passport's validity (6+ months) and research visa/K-ETA requirements.

Book Flights & Main Stays

Reserve flights abroad and major accommodation reservations.

Travel Insurance

Research and purchase comprehensive travel insurance (World Nomads is a common option).

2

Month Before

Finalize Itinerary

Plan daily activities and make specific tour/class reservations.

IDP & Bank Notices

Obtain International Driving Permit if needed. Notify banks of travel plans.

Start Packing List

Begin compiling your packing list based on season and activities.

3

Week Before

Confirm All Bookings

Reconfirm flights, accommodations, and pre-booked tours.

Download Essential Apps

Get KakaoMap/Naver Map, Papago, and Kakao T ready.

Home & Currency

Arrange home care. Plan initial currency exchange or ATM withdrawal.

Required Advance Bookings

Reservations

  • International and domestic flights to/from Busan.
  • Hotels, guesthouses, or vacation rentals.
  • K-ETA (when suitable) for visa-free entry.
  • High-speed train (KTX/SRT) tickets for popular routes.

Pre-Trip Research

Knowing these particulars beforehand enriches your experience.

Essential Knowledge

  • Understand Busan's public transport system and T-Money.
  • Learn basic Korean phrases plus cultural etiquette.
  • Check the weather forecast for the dates you are traveling.
  • Confirm operating hours for attractions.

Cultural Immersion Pointers

Prepare to embrace the local way of life for a relationship with Busan.

Etiquette Basics

  • Remove shoes indoors.
  • Use two hands for exchanges.
  • Follow recycling rules.
  • Pick up basic expressions (Babbel helps).

Social Awareness

  • Queue orderly.
  • Mind noise levels, especially at night.
  • Ask before photographing people.
  • Politeness is highly regarded.

Home Preparation

  • Secure your home (locks, alarms).
  • Adjust utilities (thermostat, lights).
  • Organize your mail hold/pickup.
  • Share itinerary and contacts with trusted individuals.

Preparation Payoff

Thorough planning saves time and eases your journey. A well-prepared trip allows for more enjoyment and fewer surprises.

Arrival Checklist

These constitute the first steps to take on arrival in Busan.

First Moments in Busan

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs

    Have your passport, K-ETA approval, and entry card ready.

  • 2
    Luggage Claim

    Retrieve your checked luggage efficiently.

  • 3
    Currency & Connectivity

    Exchange currency or withdraw Won. Pick up SIM/eSIM/Pocket Wi-Fi.

Initial Orientation

  • Airport Information

    Visit the tourist information desk at Gimhae International Airport for maps.

  • Airport Transfer

    Pick your preferred transport to your accommodation (Tram, Bus, Taxi).

  • Neighborhood Walk

    Take a stroll to familiarize yourself with close-by stores and train stations.

Navigating Your Departure

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs throughout your trip. Inquire about international shipping for large items. Eagle Creek offers practical packing solutions.

This helps manage baggage allowance for your return journey.

VAT Refund Procedures

Keep receipts for "Without Tax" purchases over ₩30,000. Locate VAT refund counters at the airport/ferry terminal.

Allow extra time for this process before check-in.

Pre-Departure Timing

Arrive 2-THREE hours prior to international flights, 1-1.5 hours for domestic. KTX/SRT trains: 15-30 minutes early.

International ferries: 1-1.5 hours prior for check-in and immigration.

Travel Day Tips

Reconfirm all return travel details and prepare your passport and boarding passes for a seamless exit from Busan.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure to ensure a stress-free exit from Busan.

Souvenirs & Reminders

  • Purchase souvenirs throughout your trip, not just last minute.
  • For bulky goods, inquire about international shipping services.
  • This helps reduce potential excess baggage fees.
  • Ensure you have enough local currency for your final day.

VAT Refund Process

  • Tourists are eligible for VAT refunds on purchases over ₩30,000.
  • Keep all eligible receipts from "Without Tax" stores.
  • Locate VAT refund counters at the airport or ferry terminal.
  • Allow ample time for the refund process before checking in.

Departure Timing

Arriving at the correct time for your departure.

Recommended Arrival at Terminal

  • International Flights:2-3 hours before
  • Domestic Flights:1-1.FIVE hours ahead of
  • KTX/SRT Trains:15-30 minutes before
  • International Ferries:1-1.FIVE hours before

Return Trip Prep

  • Double-check your return journey specifics (flight, train, ferry).
  • Ensure passport, boarding passes, and other documents are accessible.
  • Plan your transport to the airport/terminal, considering traffic.
  • Confirm home care arrangements (pets, mail) are in place.

Seamless Exit

A well-organized departure makes for a nice end to your trip.

Give yourself plenty of time for the airport procedures, including check-in, security, and VAT refunds.