Departure Preparation: Exumas

Chronological Planning

Plan with timeframes for a smooth journey.

Planning Timeline

Plan with timeframes for a smooth journey.

-6 Months Before

Book flights and accommodations.

Popular spots fill quickly; prices increase closer to departure.

Check passport validity.

Ensure validity for at least 6 months beyond departure.

Research visa requirements.

Confirm if your nationality requires a visa.

-2 Months Before

Confirm all reservations.

Double-check flight, accommodation, and tour bookings.

Arrange for travel insurance.

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance, e.g., World Nomads.

Schedule any necessary vaccinations.

Consult with your doctor or a travel clinic.

-4 Weeks Before

Make copies of essential documents.

Passport, reservations, insurance, contacts; store separately.

Notify bank/credit card companies.

Inform them of travel dates to prevent transaction flags.

Arrange for airport transfers.

Pre-book taxis or shuttles from Exuma International Airport.

Required Bookings

Secure these items in advance.

Reservations

Flights (international and inter-island).
Accommodations (hotels, villas, guesthouses).
Popular Exuma Cays boat tours often sell out.
Car rentals (limited availability).

Home Preparation

Steps for leaving your home.

Home Checklist

Secure your home (lock windows/doors, set lights).
Arrange for mail collection or hold service.
Plan for pet care if you have animals.
Pay bills or set up auto-payments.

Pre-Trip Research

Dive into these topics before your departure.

Entry Requirements

Review current Bahamian entry requirements.
These can change frequently.
Check detailed weather forecasts for travel dates.
Look for any local events or festivals.

Packing Smart

Acquire reef-safe sunscreen.
Dry bags are ideal for boat tours.
Water shoes for rocky areas.
Waterproof camera for underwater photos.

Last Week Prep

Pack prescription medications with copies.
Charge all electronics.
Confirm flight times and online check-in.
Withdraw small US dollar denominations.

Final Check

Inform a trusted contact of your itinerary.

Arrival Checklist

First few hours in the Exumas set the tone for your trip.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Clear Immigration and Customs at GGT.
Have your passport and immigration card ready.
2
Pick up checked luggage.
From the baggage claim area.
3
Locate pre-arranged transport.
Or proceed to the taxi stand outside the terminal.

Orientation Strategies

Settle into your accommodation.
Obtain a local map from your hotel front desk.
Locate necessities.
Nearest grocery store (Exuma Markets), ATM, local eateries.
Purchase local SIM.
If desired for mobile data and local calls.

Currency & Transport

Currency Exchange

No currency exchange is needed if using USD.

USD is accepted at par with BSD.

Airport Transfers

Utilize pre-booked transfers or taxis from GGT.

Confirm arrangements before travel.

Initial Purchases

Buy bottled water or essential snacks.

Options can be limited at remote locations.

Good to Know

Remember to pick up checked luggage from the baggage claim area before leaving the airport.