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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Taipei, Taiwan

Essential Preparations

Plan your trip with precision. A timeline assists in covering all aspects.

Organized Planning Stages

A structured approach to your journey, from initial ideas to final details.

1

Months Before

Passport Validity

Ensure validity for six months beyond entry date. Renew if needed.

Visa Research

Check requirements on BOCA website. Apply early if needed.

Vaccinations

Consult doctor for recommended immunizations.

2

Month Before

Flights & Accommodation

Book flights and confirm hotel reservations.

International Driving Permit

Obtain an IDP if driving. It complements your national license.

Travel Insurance

Purchase a comprehensive policy. Check coverage specifics. Affiliate: World Nomads

3

Week Before

Confirmations

Double-check all reservations for flights, hotels, tours.

Digital Downloads

Download essential apps: Google Maps, Google Translate, local transport.

Document Copies

Make physical and digital copies of passport, visa, insurance. Store separately.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure your plans.

Essential Bookings

  • Flights: Secure your air travel to and from Taiwan.
  • Accommodation: Book lodging, especially for high seasons or holidays.
  • Popular Tours: Reserve cooking classes or day trips to Jiufen/Taroko Gorge.
  • THSR Tickets: Obtain Taiwan High Speed Rail tickets for peak times.

Pre-trip Research Recommendations

Knowledge before you go. Prepare for discovery.

Destination Knowledge

  • Yangmingshan: Familiarize yourself with park layout, trails, and accessibility.
  • Taiwanese Food: Research dishes to try, especially at night markets.
  • Local Customs: Read up on etiquette for respectful interactions.
  • Accessibility: Check specific location features for diverse traveler needs.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Steps for a worry-free departure. Secure your home environment.

Inform Contacts

  • Family and Friends: Inform them of your itinerary and emergency contacts.
  • Neighbors: Let them know you'll be away for security.
  • Emergency contacts: Share local details with someone trustworthy.
  • holder: Give a spare to a trusted individual.

Household Management

  • Mail: Arrange for collection or hold mail delivery.
  • Pets: Organize pet care arrangements.
  • Plants: Arrange for plant watering if away for extended periods.
  • Utilities: Turn off non-essential lights and appliances.

Security Measures

  • Lock up: Secure doors and windows thoroughly.
  • Deliveries: Pause newspaper or other regular deliveries.
  • Valuables: Store precious items in a safe place.
  • Alarm system: Activate home alarm if you possess one.

Financial Notices

Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans. This avoids potential holds or fraud alerts on your cards.

Arrival Checklist

Smooth transition upon arrival. Your first steps in Taiwan.

Initial Actions

  • 1
    Immigration and Customs

    Clear procedures efficiently.

  • 2
    Currency Exchange

    Exchange small amounts or withdraw NTD from airport ATMs.

  • 3
    Connectivity

    Purchase a local SIM card or activate eSIM at the airport for immediate connection.

Orientation & Transport

  • EasyCard

    Purchase an EasyCard at the airport MRT or a convenience store. For public transport.

  • Airport Transport

    Arrange travel from airport to accommodation. See Section 4.1 for options.

  • Local Map

    Obtain a local map, physical or digital, for orientation.

Departure Preparation

Souvenir Shopping

Purchase souvenirs well before departure.

Shipping: For larger items, arrange with local post office or shipping company. VAT refund: Taiwan offers 5% VAT refund for purchases over NT$2,000 at TRS stores.

Airport Timing

Ample time: For travel to airport, especially during peak hours.

Factor in time: For VAT refunds, check-in, security, and immigration. Arrival time: Reach airport at least 2-3 hours before international flights.

Return Trip Preparation

Confirm your return flight details and check for any schedule changes.

Ensure all your personal belongings are packed, nothing left behind in your accommodation.

Departure Reminder

Double-check your passport, tickets, and boarding passes. Enjoy your return journey.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Steps for a worry-free departure. Secure your home environment.

Inform Contacts

  • Inform family or trusted friends of your itinerary and emergency contact information.
  • Arrange for mail collection or hold mail delivery.
  • Organize pet care arrangements if you have pets.
  • Arrange for plant watering if you will be away for an extended period.

Home Security & Utilities

  • Secure your home by locking doors and windows.
  • Consider pausing deliveries like newspapers.
  • Turn off non-essential lights and appliances.
  • Store valuables in a safe place or with a trusted person.

Emergency Procedures

Prepare for unforeseen events. Knowing what to do assists preparedness.

Emergency Contacts to Share

  • Local Police:110
  • Fire/Ambulance:119
  • Tourist Information Hotline:0800-011-765
  • Your Country's Embassy/Consulate:(Lookup Before Travel)

Financial Pre-Departure

  • Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans.
  • Check foreign transaction fees for your cards.
  • Order some local currency for immediate needs upon arrival.
  • Set up travel notifications on banking apps.

Pre-Trip Note

Consider packing light to facilitate easy movement, especially on public transport.

Pack adaptable clothing for varying weather in Yangmingshan.

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