Pre-Trip Checklist: Busan

Planning Milestones

A structured approach to your Busan adventure ensures nothing is forgotten.

Your Planning Journey

steps across your preparation timeline.

Months Before

Passport & Visa Check

Confirm passport validity (6+ months) and research visa/K-ETA requirements.

Book Flights & Main Stays

Secure international flights and major accommodation reservations.

Travel Insurance

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

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.

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 (if applicable) for visa-free entry.
High-speed train (KTX/SRT) tickets for popular routes.

Pre-Trip Research

Knowing these details beforehand enriches your experience.

Essential Knowledge

Understand Busan's public transport system and T-Money.
Learn basic Korean phrases and cultural norms.
Check the weather forecast for your travel dates.
Verify opening hours for attractions.

Cultural Immersion Pointers

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

Etiquette Basics

Remove shoes indoors.
Use two hands for exchanges.
Follow recycling rules.
Learn basic phrases (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).
Arrange 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 are the first steps to take upon landing in Busan.

First Moments in Busan

1
Immigration & Customs
Have your passport, K-ETA approval, and arrival card ready.
2
Luggage Claim
Retrieve your checked baggage 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
Choose your preferred transport to your accommodation (Light Rail, Bus, Taxi).
Neighborhood Walk
Take a stroll to familiarize yourself with nearby stores and metro 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 "Tax Free" 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 2-3 hours before 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 large items, 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 "Tax Free" 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:1-1.5 hours before
KTX/SRT Trains:15-30 minutes before
International Ferries:1-1.5 hours before

Return Trip Prep

Double-check your return travel details (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 pleasant end to your trip.

Allow ample time for airport procedures, including check-in, security, and VAT refunds.

Pre-Trip Checklist