Pre-Trip Checklist: Tahiti

Chronological Planning Timeline

A step-by-step guide to your pre-trip activities.

Your Planning Stages

Breaking down your pre-trip actions for clarity and ease.

Early Planning 3-6 Months Before

Passport

Check validity (6+ months beyond travel).

Visa

Apply for any required visas.

Flights & Accommodation

Book international flights and major resorts/bungalows early. Consider a travel rewards credit card from Capital One Travel for savings.

Mid-Stage Planning 1-2 Months Before

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance.

Driving Permit

Apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) if renting vehicles.

Packing Organizers

Consider Eagle Creek packing organizers for efficiency.

Final Countdown 2-4 Weeks Before

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Acquire necessary items like Reef-safe sunscreen.

Travel Adapter

Obtain a Universal travel adapter for your devices.

Currency Exchange

Exchange a small amount of Pacific Franc (XPF) for immediate expenses upon arrival.

Required Advance Bookings

International flights, inter-island flights, and popular overwater bungalows often need advance booking. This secures your spot and can sometimes offer better rates.

Reservations

International and inter-island flights.
Popular overwater bungalows or major resort stays.
Specific tours (e.g., diving excursions, whale watching).
Book well in advance, especially during peak season.

Home Preparation

Secure your home before departure by locking all doors and windows. Inform trusted contacts of your itinerary.

Pre-Departure Tasks

Security: Lock all doors and windows.
Mail: Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
Pet Care: Arrange for pet sitting or boarding if needed.
Bills: Confirm bills are paid or set up for auto-payment.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Familiarize yourself with basic French and Tahitian phrases, local customs, and the attractions you wish to visit.

Language Basics

Basic French phrases.
Tahitian phrases ("Ia Ora Na", "Mauruuru").
Practice with language apps.
Listen to pronunciations.

Cultural Etiquette

Understand local customs and traditions.
Dress modestly in villages/religious sites.
Ask permission before taking photos of people.
Embrace the local pace of life ("a'ia'i").

Attraction Planning

Research attractions you wish to visit.
Check opening hours and best visit times.
Plan efficient routes between points of interest.
Look into marine life and snorkeling spots.

Travel Checklist Review

A thorough pre-trip checklist minimizes stress. Confirm all bookings and necessary documents for a smooth journey.

Arrival Checklist

These steps aid a smooth transition upon landing in Tahiti.

First Steps

1
Immigration & Customs:
Clear procedures at Faa'an International Airport (PPT) with documents ready.
2
Luggage:
Collect your bags from baggage claim.
3
Transfers:
Proceed to your pre-arranged transfer or taxi stand.

Settling In

Orientation:
Once at your accommodation, take a moment to orient yourself. Get a local map.
Currency & Purchases:
Exchange a small amount of currency or use an ATM to get Pacific Franc (XPF).
Connectivity:
Purchase a local SIM card if desired, for immediate connectivity.

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs & Shipping

Allow time for last-minute souvenir shopping, either at the airport's duty-free shops or at Papeete Municipal Market.

Inquire about shipping costs and customs regulations for your home country.

VAT Refund Procedures

French Polynesia has a specific tax system. VAT refunds are generally not applicable for tourists as they are in mainland France.

Confirm with retailers for specific high-value purchases if you believe a refund might apply.

Pre-Departure Timing

Arrive at Faa'an International Airport (PPT) at least 2.5-3 hours before your international departure.

For domestic flights within French Polynesia, 1-1.5 hours is typically enough.

Important Arrival Note

Once at your accommodation, take a moment to orient yourself, locate the nearest ATM, and find local shops or supermarkets.

Return Trip Preparation

Prepare for your departure to make for a stress-free end to your trip.

Flight Reconfirmation

Reconfirm your return flights approximately 24-48 hours before departure.
Ensure all your travel documents are in order and easily accessible.
Verify any changes to flight times or gates.
Double-check luggage weight limits.

Airport Transport

Have your transport to the airport arranged and confirmed in advance.
Consider pre-booked shuttles for stress-free travel to Faa'a.
Return rental cars with ample time before your flight.
Account for potential traffic or unexpected delays.

Home Security on Return

Final Checks

Verify lights are off.Before leaving.
Check appliances unplugged.Before departure.
Secure all windows and doors.Essential step.
Notify trusted neighbor of return date.Good practice.

Digital Clean-Up

Delete sensitive information from rental car GPS or public computers.
Remove saved Wi-Fi networks from unknown locations.
Back up travel photos and videos to cloud storage.
Clear browsing history on personal devices if using public Wi-Fi.

Final Logistics

Reconfirm your return flights 24-48 hours before departure. Arrange your transport to the airport well in advance.

Ensure all your travel documents are accessible for a smooth departure.

Pre-Trip Checklist