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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Taiwan

Essential Preparations

A systematic approach to pre-trip planning a smooth journey.

Chronological Planning

Organize your preparations effectively.

1

Months Before

Passport & Visa Check

Check passport validity (6 months after entry). Research and apply for visa if needed.

Flight Booking

Book international flights, especially for peak season, for better fares.

Initial Research

Begin researching major attractions at Sun Moon Lake.

2

Month Before

Bookings

Book HSR tickets and accommodations in Sun Moon Lake for peak season.

Itinerary Finalization

Finalize your itinerary for Sun Moon Lake and any surrounding areas you plan to visit.

Health & IDs

Get any necessary vaccinations; arrange International Driving Permit if driving.

3

Week Before

Packing

Pack climate-appropriate clothing and all other required items. Review your packing list carefully.

Transfers & Documents

Arrange for airport transfers. Download offline maps, translation apps, and necessary travel documents to your phone.

Confirmations & Currency

Confirm all your reservations. Exchange some local currency.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure your travel components.

Bookings

  • International and any domestic flights within Taiwan.
  • High-Speed Rail (HSR) tickets, especially during peak travel times.
  • Accommodation in Sun Moon Lake, specifically if you have specific preferences or travel during busy periods.
  • Any specific tours or specialized activities, like kayaking or guided hikes, should be booked in advance.

Home preparation before departure

Confirm peace of mind while away.

Home Security

  • Inform family or friends of your itinerary and emergency contacts.
  • Arrange for mail collection or pet care, if applicable.
  • Secure your home by locking doors and windows, and stopping mail delivery.

Pre-trip research recommendations

Gain insights about your destination.

Culture & Etiquette

  • Read up on Taiwanese culture and etiquette.
  • This guides respectful local customs.

Transportation

  • Familiarize yourself with local transportation options to Sun Moon Lake.
  • Includes bus and ferry schedules.

Attraction Details

  • Look up opening hours for attractions.
  • Check admission fees to manage your time and budget.

Document Copies

Make copies of your passport, visa, and credit cards. Keep one set in a separate bag from the originals and leave another set with a trusted person at home.

Arrival Checklist

Begin your trip smoothly upon landing in Taiwan.

First steps upon arrival

  • 1
    Immigration & Luggage

    Clear immigration and customs. Collect your luggage from baggage claim.

  • 2
    Connectivity

    Purchase a local SIM card or activate your eSIM for immediate mobile connectivity.

  • 3
    Currency & Transport

    Withdraw local currency or exchange money. Locate your transportation to Taichung HSR Station.

Orientation strategies

  • Accommodation First

    Head directly to your accommodation to drop off your luggage. This frees you to explore.

  • Visitor Center Visit

    Visit the Shuishe Visitor Center for maps, bus schedules, and local information.

  • Lake Overview

    Consider taking the Sun Moon Lake Round-the-Lake Bus or a ferry ride for a general orientation of the lake.

Currency exchange and initial purchases

Exchange Currency

Exchange currency at the airport or use an ATM to get New Taiwan Dollars.

Have smaller denominations for local vendors.

Transport Cards

Buy an EasyCard or iPASS for convenient public transport payments.

Reload them at convenience stores or metro stations.

Essentials

Purchase bottled water and any immediate snacks you might need.

Convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart) are common.

SIM Card Setup

Upon arrival at Taoyuan Airport, head directly to the SIM card counters. They are usually near the arrivals hall.

Departure Preparation

Plan your exit from Sun Moon Lake and Taiwan.

Souvenir and shipping considerations

  • Purchase souvenirs in advance of your departure day to avoid a last-minute rush.
  • If shipping items home, inquire about postal services or courier options at larger post offices in Shuishe or Puli.
  • Be aware of international shipping regulations and restricted items.
  • Pack according to airline baggage rules to avoid overweight luggage fees.

VAT refund procedures

  • Foreign visitors claim a VAT refund (5%) on purchases over NT$2,000 from eligible stores ("TRS" or "Tax Refund Store").
  • Claim refunds at designated Tax Refund Service Counters at airports or specific department stores.
  • Keep all your receipts and present your passport.
  • Processing can take time, so budget for it before your flight.

Pre-departure timing recommendations

Allocate enough travel time.

Travel Time

  • Allow ample time (2-3 hours for international flights) to get from Sun Moon Lake to Taichung HSR Station.
  • Then onward to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport.
  • Factor in potential traffic or unexpected delays.
  • Check your flight status and confirm airport transfer options the day before departure.

Return trip preparation

  • Confirm your return flight details, including departure time and terminal.
  • Pack according to airline baggage rules to avoid overweight luggage fees.
  • Keep some local currency for last-minute purchases or airport transfers.

Departure Bag

Pack a separate, smaller bag for any last-minute purchases or items you might need to access easily during your departure journey.

Also, keep some local currency for airport transfers.

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