Hualien Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Essential Preparations

Organize your planning chronologically to manage tasks effectively.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Start early for major preparations, working through tasks month by month.

Months Before

Passport Validity

Check your passport's expiration date. It needs six months of validity beyond your planned departure from Taiwan.

Visa Requirements

Research visa requirements for your nationality. Confirm visa-exempt entry or if a specific visa is needed. Begin the application process if a visa is required.

International Flights

Book your international flights to Taiwan Taoyuan (TPE) or Kaohsiung (KHH) airports. Booking early secures better prices.

Month Before

Major Accommodations

Book all your major accommodations in Hualien, especially if traveling during peak season or a Taiwanese national holiday.

TRA Express Train Tickets

Book your Taiwan Railways Admin. (TRA) express train tickets (Puyuma or Taroko Express) to and from Hualien. These popular tickets sell quickly.

Zhuilu Old Trail Permits

If planning to hike the challenging Zhuilu Old Trail, begin researching and applying for the required permits.

Week Before

Travel Insurance

Arrange comprehensive Travel insurance. Coverage for medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.

International Driving Permit

If renting a car or scooter, obtain an IDP from your local automobile association. It should include motorcycle endorsement for scooters.

Vaccinations/Medical Check-ups

Schedule any necessary vaccinations or medical check-ups. Obtain copies of prescriptions for required medications.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these ahead of time to confirm your trip details.

Reservations

International and Domestic Flights: To and from Taiwan, and any domestic flights within Taiwan (e.g., Taipei to Hualien).
TRA Express Train Tickets: Especially Puyuma Express and Taroko Express, which are fast and popular routes to Hualien.
Accommodation: Secure your preferred hotels, B&Bs, or hostels.
Zhuilu Old Trail Permits: Obtain these well in advance if this hike is on your itinerary.

Pre-Trip Research & Home Prep

Plan for cultural readiness and home security before you leave.

Important Steps

Familiarize yourself with local etiquette and a few basic Mandarin phrases.
Check seasonal weather patterns and potential natural hazards like typhoons or earthquake safety procedures.
Pet Care: Arrange for pet sitters or boarding.
Mail/Deliveries: Put your mail on hold or arrange for a trusted person to collect it.

Final Checks

Last-minute confirmation and organization for peace of mind.

Booking & Bank Notifications

Reconfirm all your flight, accommodation, tour, and train ticket confirmations.
Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to Taiwan. This averts card flagging.
Set up travel alerts for your cards.
Confirm any currency exchange rates.

App & Document Prep

Download essential apps like Google Maps (and offline maps for Hualien/Taroko Gorge).
Download Google Translate (with offline Mandarin Chinese pack), and Uber.
Organize and photocopy all essential documents (passport, visa, insurance policy, reservation confirmations).
Store digital copies on your phone and in cloud storage. Keep physical and digital copies in separate places.

Home & Contacts

Notify trusted family or friends of your itinerary and emergency contacts.
Secure your home (lock doors/windows, set alarms, arrange for lights to be on timers).
Turn off unnecessary lights or appliances.
Empty perishables from the refrigerator.

Permit Reminder

Zhuilu Old Trail permits have limits and require early application. Plan this hike well in advance.

Arrival Checklist

The first steps upon arrival shape a smooth transition into your Hualien adventure.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Clear Immigration and Customs
Have your passport and arrival card ready for efficient processing.
2
Collect Luggage
Retrieve your checked bags from the carousel.
3
SIM Card
Purchase and activate a local SIM card at the airport (TPE/KHH) or in Hualien City. This brings immediate connectivity.

Orientation & Initial Purchases

Tourist Information
Locate the tourist information center at the airport or Hualien Train Station for maps and brochures.
Transport to Accommodation
Confirm transportation options to your accommodation (e.g., taxi, bus, pre-booked transfer).
Local Currency & Essentials
Withdraw New Taiwan Dollars (NTD) from an ATM. Purchase an EasyCard/iPass if you plan extensive public transport use. Buy bottled water or locate water refill stations.

Currency Exchange and Initial Purchases

Exchange & ATMs

Exchange foreign currency at banks or use ATMs for NTD.

ATMs are widely available in cities and larger towns.

EasyCard/iPass Acquisition

Acquire an EasyCard/iPass if you plan extensive public transport use for ease and minor fare adjustments.

Available at convenience stores like 7-Eleven or FamilyMart.

Water & Essentials

Buy bottled water upon arrival or locate water refill stations to stay hydrated.

Stock up on any immediate necessities like snacks.

Stay Connected

A local SIM card upon arrival provides immediate connectivity, aiding navigation and communication during your Hualien visit.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure thoughtfully to conclude your Hualien trip without last-minute complications.

Souvenir and Shipping Considerations

Purchase Hualien-specific souvenirs like mochi, taro products, or marble crafts.
If shipping larger items home, ensure they comply with customs regulations of your home country to avert issues upon re-entry.
Keep receipts for any larger purchases for customs declaration.
Consider shopping at duty-free stores at the airport for certain items.

VAT Refund Procedures if applicable

Foreign travelers claim a 5% VAT refund on eligible purchases made at Tax Refund Qualified (TRS) stores (minimum NT$2,000 in a single day at one store).
Obtain the refund form at the point of sale.
The refund process occurs at designated airport counters or tax refund service centers upon departure from Taiwan.
Follow all instructions carefully to claim your refund.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allocate sufficient time for travel and airport procedures.

Airport Transit Time

Travel to Hualien Airport or Train Station:Allow ample time.
International flights from TPE (Taipei Taoyuan International Airport):Allow 2-3 hours for check-in, baggage drop, and security screening.
Travel from Hualien to TPE:Factor in train to Taipei Main Station, then MRT/bus to TPE.
Peak Travel Times:Add extra buffer during holidays or weekends.

Return Trip Preparation

Reconfirm your return flight details and any airport transfers.
Ensure all necessary travel documents (passport, boarding pass) are easily accessible.
Account for any remaining local currency (NTD) or exchange it back to your home currency if desired.
Spend small amounts on last-minute snacks or small souvenirs.

Smooth Departure

Allow ample time for airport procedures, especially for international flights from TPE.

Reconfirm all details for a seamless return.

Hualien Travel Checklist