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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

New Providence, The Bahamas

Essential Preparations

Organize your preparations chronologically.

3-6

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Confirm passport validity (at least 6 months beyond trip). Check visa requirements.

Flight & Accommodation

Book international flights and major accommodations, especially for high season.

Tours & Insurance

Research and book major tours. Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance.

1-2

Months Before

Health & Itinerary

Consult a doctor for vaccinations. Plan your itinerary.

Car Rental & Documents

Book car rental if desired. Arrange International Driving Permit. Gather copies of passport and tickets.

Local Knowledge

Begin familiarization with Bahamian culture and customs.

1-2

Weeks Before

Confirmation & Packing

Confirm all bookings. Pack climate-appropriate clothing. Convert some USD to small bills.

Financial & Logistics

Inform bank/credit card companies of travel plans. Arrange pet/house-sitting. Download offline maps and beneficial apps.

Electronics & Final Check

Charge all electronics. Ensure important documents are accessible. Check weather forecast.

Required Bookings

Secure these elements in advance for a smoother trip.

Reservations

  • Flights
  • Accommodation
  • Popular tours (e.g., Exuma Swimming Pigs)
  • Fine dining reservations (especially at resorts)

Pre-Trip Research

Inform yourself before you travel.

Information Gathering

  • Familiarize yourself with Bahamian culture and customs.
  • Read recent traveler reviews for chosen accommodations and tours.
  • Check for current travel advisories from your government.
  • Review general safety information for island destinations.

Home Preparation

Take these steps to prepare your home before you leave.

Household Tasks

  • Secure your home: locks, mail, lights.
  • Arrange for plant or pet care.
  • Pay bills due during travel.
  • Set up mail holds if away for an extended period.

Information Sharing

  • Share your itinerary and emergency contacts with a trusted person.
  • Leave a copy of important documents with someone reliable.
  • Provide contact information for your accommodation.
  • Ensure your home security system is active.

Digital Housekeeping

  • Set up out-of-office replies for email.
  • Confirm remote access to essential digital services.
  • Update device security and backups.
  • Backup important files before travel.

Planning for Arrival

Consider details for a smooth arrival and departure. Organize documents, pack appropriately, and coordinate transportation.

Arrival Checklist

Prepare for your smooth arrival in Nassau.

First Steps

  • Immigration & Customs:

    Clear immigration and customs. Have your passport, disembarkation card, and customs form ready.

  • Luggage Retrieval:

    Collect your luggage promptly from the carousel.

  • Ground Transportation:

    Find the official taxi stand or your pre-arranged transfer.

Initial Set-Up

  • Local SIM Card:

    Purchase a local SIM card if desired for connectivity.

  • Small Denominations:

    Small USD bills for immediate use with jitneys or small purchases are useful.

  • Accommodation & Neighborhood:

    Settle into your accommodation. Familiarize yourself with your immediate neighborhood.

Orientation & Purchases

Local Familiarization

Locate nearby restaurants, grocery stores, and an ATM.

Ask hotel staff for local recommendations and safety tips.

Currency & First Needs

As USD is accepted, no immediate currency exchange is needed unless you specifically want Bahamian Dollars. ATMs are available.

Initial purchases include bottled water, snacks, and a local SIM card.

Transport from Arrival

Confirm your pre-booked transfer or head to the official taxi stand. Avoid unlicensed solicitations.

Jitneys also offer a local transport option from designated stops.

Arrival Guidance

Upon arrival, prioritize immigration and luggage collection. Navigate to your accommodation efficiently and seek local information for initial orientation.

Departure Preparation

Set yourself up for a smooth departure from Nassau.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Pack souvenirs carefully.
  • Declare all purchases at customs upon return.
  • If shipping large items, confirm arrangements with the vendor well in advance.
  • Keep receipts for any significant purchases.

VAT Refund Information

  • The Bahamas does not currently operate a VAT refund scheme for tourists on goods purchased.
  • VAT is usually included in the listed price of items.
  • No specific forms or procedures exist for tourist VAT refunds.
  • If unsure about a specific purchase, inquire with the retailer.

Departure Timings

Allow ample time for airport check-in and security.

Airport Procedures

  • US Customs Pre-Clearance (if flying to US):3 Hours Prior
  • Other International Flights:2-2.5 Hours Prior
  • Rental Car Return:Full Tank of Gas
  • Check-in Status:Reconfirm Flight Details

Return Trip Details

  • Reconfirm flight details.
  • Have all travel documents ready.
  • Ensure luggage meets airline weight or size requirements.
  • Remember any liquids in your carry-on must comply with TSA rules.

Departure Guidance

Ensure a smooth departure from Nassau by allowing ample time for airport procedures, especially US Customs Pre-Clearance.

Confirm all travel documents are accessible and luggage is compliant with airline regulations.