Pre-Trip Checklist: Arugam Bay

Preparations

Follow these steps for a smooth journey to Sri Lanka.

Timeline for Planning

Careful planning reduces stress before you depart.

Months Before

Passport Validity

Confirm passport validity for six months past return date.

Visa Research

Investigate visa needs for your nationality.

Flight Bookings

Secure international flights early for favorable rates.

Month Before

ETA Application

Apply for Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization online.

Accommodation Confirmation

Book your lodging, especially for high season.

Health Preparations

Schedule any vaccinations with a travel health clinic.

Week Before

Travel Insurance

Acquire comprehensive travel coverage. World Nomads

Digital Copies

Save digital copies of documents on your phone and cloud.

Bank Notification

Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.

Advance Bookings

Secure aspects of your trip early.

Essential Bookings

International flights to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB).
Your Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).
High-season accommodation, surf camps, or boutique hotels.
Private airport transfers for convenience.

Pre-Trip Insights

Gather knowledge to enrich your journey.

Recommended Research

Local customs and cultural norms specific to Arugam Bay.
Local food specialties and dining etiquette.
Local weather patterns for your travel dates.
Specific activities desired, like surf spots or safari.

Homefront Safeguards

Ensure your home is secure while you are away.

Household Security

Lock all windows and doors.
Activate any security systems.
Use timers for lights.
Unplug unnecessary electronics.

Arrangements for Absence

Stop or redirect mail delivery.
Arrange for pet care if needed.
Water indoor plants if necessary.
Empty all trash cans.

Communication at Home

Notify trusted friends of your itinerary.
Leave emergency contacts.
Ensure home internet is functioning for remote access.
Consider smart home features for monitoring.

Important Travel Document Note

For scooter or car rentals, acquire your International Driving Permit endorsement from the Automobile Association of Ceylon (AAC) upon arrival.

Arrival Checklist

Your initial steps upon landing in Sri Lanka.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Clear Immigration
Present passport and ETA approval.
2
Collect Luggage
Retrieve bags from the baggage claim area.
3
Local SIM
Purchase a local SIM card at the airport.

Initial Orientation

Settle In
Take time to relax at your accommodation.
Ask Locals
Request local tips from your host or hotel staff.
Explore Nearby
Walk around to familiarize yourself with the area.

Immediate Needs

Currency Exchange

Exchange currency or withdraw cash at the airport.

Cover immediate needs like transport and first meal.

Essential Purchases

Buy bottled water and any immediate necessities.

Consider snacks or toiletries that you may have forgotten.

Transport Confirmation

Locate your pre-arranged transport.

Proceed to the official taxi or bus counters.

Departure Preparation

Plan for a seamless exit from Arugam Bay and Sri Lanka.

Souvenir Purchases

Purchase souvenirs a few days before departure.
Factor in luggage weight for souvenirs.
Shipping larger items from Arugam Bay is generally not practical.
Arrange major shipping from larger cities.

Tax Refunds

Sri Lanka lacks a general VAT refund scheme.
No tourist tax refund on goods purchased.
Confirm any specific duty-free rules.
Inquire at point of purchase if unsure.

Useful Departure Timing

Adhere to these guidelines for a relaxed departure.

Departure Pointers

Travel time from Arugam Bay to CMB:6-8 hours by car
Travel time from Arugam Bay to CMB:8-12 hours by bus
Airport arrival before international flight:At least 3 hours
Allow for check-in, security, immigration:Ample time needed

Post-Journey Arrangements

Confirm all onward travel arrangements.
Recheck flight status for delays or changes.
Ensure all personal belongings are packed.
Confirm nothing is left at your accommodation.

Smooth Transition Home

A well-planned departure concludes your journey on a high note.

Pre-Trip Checklist