Pre-Trip Checklist: Colombo

Essential Preparations: Your Timeline

Organize your tasks for a stress-free journey.

Colombo Pre-Departure Planning

Plan your trip seamlessly with this comprehensive timeline.

Three Months Ahead

Passport Validity

Check validity for at least six months beyond departure.

Visa/ETA Application

Research and apply online via the official ETA Sri Lanka Government Portal.

Vaccinations

Consult a healthcare professional for recommended vaccinations.

One Month Before

Accommodation Bookings

Secure your Colombo accommodation and confirm reservations.

Day Trips & Tours

Plan special tours; book popular long-distance train tickets in advance.

Driving Permit IDP

Obtain an IDP in your home country if you plan to self-drive.

One Week Prior

Confirm All Bookings

Double-check flights, accommodation, and tour reservations.

Packing

Pack climate-appropriate clothing and essential items. Review the "What to Pack" section.

Essential Apps & Access

Download necessary apps and confirm currency access upon arrival.

Advance Booking Necessities

Reserve these items to ensure a smooth journey.

Reservations

ETA/Visa for entry.
International and domestic flights.
Accommodation in Colombo.
Popular long-distance train tickets.

Further Planning Steps

Pre-Travel Actions

Notify your bank and credit card companies of travel dates.
Make multiple copies (digital and physical) of all essential documents.
Inform family or friends of your itinerary and emergency contacts.
Secure your home before departure.

Pre-trip Research & Home Prep

A understanding of Sri Lanka prior to your arrival.

Cultural Insights

Read about Sri Lankan culture, history, and etiquette.
Familiarize yourself with common tourist scams.
Check current travel advisories from your government for safety.

Digital Readiness

Download essential apps (PickMe, Uber, Google Maps offline).
Download Google Translate offline language packs.
Charge all electronics, including power banks.

Home Security

Arrange for mail collection or pet care if needed.
Secure your home (lock doors, windows, turn off unnecessary appliances).

Document Backup Reminder

Create a digital folder on your phone and cloud storage with copies of all your booking confirmations and travel documents.

Arrival Checklist

These are the immediate steps upon arriving in Colombo.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration:
Pass through immigration by presenting your ETA and passport.
2
Luggage Collection:
Collect your checked luggage from the baggage claim.
3
Customs Clearance:
Clear customs before exiting the airport.

Connectivity & Initial Needs

SIM Card Purchase:
Purchase a local SIM card (e.g., Dialog or Mobitel kiosk) at the airport for immediate connectivity.
Currency Exchange:
Exchange a small amount of currency at the airport; withdraw LKR from city ATMs for potentially better rates.
Airport Transportation:
Follow your pre-planned transfer (airport taxi, ride-sharing, or bus) to accommodation.

Navigating Your Arrival

Airport Transfer

Locate airport transfer options (taxi stand, bus stop) based on your pre-planned choice.

Confirm your accommodation address and contact number for your driver.

Accommodation Confirmation

Confirm your accommodation address and contact number to give to your driver upon arrival.

Have your booking details handy for quick check-in.

Offline Maps Use

Refer to your downloaded offline maps for initial navigation and orientation within the city.

This proves invaluable without a data connection.

SIM Card Activation Tip

When purchasing a SIM card at the airport, ask the staff to activate it and confirm the data plan is working before you depart the kiosk.

Departure Preparations

Prepare for your departure from Colombo with these steps.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Buy souvenirs well in advance to avoid a last-minute rush at the airport, where prices might be higher.
If you purchase large items requiring shipping, arrange with a reputable courier service in Colombo.
Be aware of your home country's customs regulations for specific items (e.g., spices, textiles, precious stones).
For gems, purchase only from reputable, certified dealers and request certificates.

Return Journey Essentials

Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) at least 3 hours before your international flight.
Factor in Colombo's traffic when planning your journey to the airport. Traffic can be unpredictable.
Confirm your return flight details (time, terminal) and ensure all necessary documents are ready.
Consider using a Luggage scale before leaving your accommodation to avoid overweight baggage fees.

VAT Refund Status

Sri Lanka does not currently have a widely implemented VAT refund scheme for tourists. Do not expect to claim VAT back on your purchases.

Departure Reminders

Departure Timing:3 hours before flight.
Traffic Consideration:Allow extra time for travel to airport.
Local Currency:Keep some LKR for airport expenses.
Flight Status:Check online for delays.

Final Checks for Departure

Confirm your return flight details (time, terminal).
Ensure all necessary documents (passport, boarding pass) are in order.
Keep some local currency (LKR) for airport expenses or last-minute purchases.
Consider using a luggage scale to avoid overweight baggage fees at the airport.

Flight Status Check

Check your flight status online prior to heading to the airport.

This helps you stay informed of any delays or gate changes.

Pre-Trip Checklist