Pre-Trip Checklist: The Pacific Northwest

Required Preparations

steps to take before your Pacific Northwest adventure.

Your Journey Timeline

A clear timeline makes trip tasks manageable.

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity, apply for ESTA/Visa.

Bookings

Secure flights and main accommodations.

Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance via World Nomads.

Month Before

Confirmations

Verify all bookings and reservations.

Documents

Make digital and physical copies of papers.

Financials

Notify your bank and credit card companies.

Week Before

Final Checks

Reconfirm all travel plans and bookings.

Packing Smart

Pack layers, rain gear, and comfortable footwear. Check Eagle Creek for organization.

Tech & Home

Charge devices, download maps, and prepare your home.

Essential Bookings

Secure popular elements of your trip well in advance.

Advance Reservations

Flights: Book as early as possible for pricing and selection.
Accommodation: Hotels, rentals, lodges book up during high season.
Car Rentals: Reserve early, especially for specific vehicle types.
National Park Permits: Check for timed entry or backcountry permits.

Pre-Trip Research

In-depth research adds layers to your experience.

Research Focus

Local Events: Check calendars for festivals, concerts, or markets.
Road Conditions: Research typical conditions, especially for mountain passes.
Local Blogs/Forums: Read for insider tips and recent updates.
Dining: Research restaurant options and reservation policies.

Home Care Before Departure

Preparing your home before you leave gives peace of mind.

Contacts & Deliveries

Notify a trusted person of your itinerary.
Stop mail and newspaper delivery.
Unplug non-essential electronics.
Adjust your home thermostat.

Financial & Security

Ensure all bills are paid or set for automatic payment.
Activate any home security systems.
Secure valuables or sensitive documents.
Confirm all windows and doors are locked.

Pet & Plant Care

Arrange for pet-sitting or boarding if needed.
Organize plant care or watering for houseplants.
Empty the fridge of perishables.
Take out all household trash.

Preparedness for Smooth Travel

Thorough advance planning alleviates stress and makes your journey more enjoyable.

Arrival Checklist

The initial hours upon arrival can be disorienting; a simple checklist helps guide you.

Smooth Arrival

1
Clear Immigration & Customs
Proceed through immigration and customs with documents ready.
2
Collect Luggage
Retrieve your checked luggage from baggage claim.
3
Locate Airport Transfer
Follow signs to your chosen transfer option (light rail, shuttle, taxi).

Immediate Needs

Head to Accommodation
Proceed directly to check in and drop off bags.
Local SIM Card / eSIM
Purchase or activate for immediate connectivity.
Familiarize with Area
Take a short walk around your accommodation, locate essentials.

Initial Purchases & Funds

Currency Exchange

Withdraw U.S. Dollars from an ATM for immediate needs.

ATMs typically offer better exchange rates than currency exchange counters.

Initial Purchases

Buy essential items like bottled water, snacks, or toiletries.

These items bridge the gap until your main shopping trip.

Transit Card

Purchase an ORCA card (Seattle) or Hop Fastpass (Portland).

These simplify public transport use.

Smooth Transitions

A well-organized arrival helps you settle in quickly and begin your Pacific Northwest adventure.

Departure Preparation

Departure logistics streamline your journey home.

Souvenir Strategy

Purchase souvenirs throughout your trip, not waiting until the last minute.
If purchasing large items, consider shipping them home.
Confirm customs regulations and shipping costs with the retailer.
Keep receipts for all shipped items.

Tax & Timing

The U.S. Does not have a national VAT refund system for tourists.
Oregon has no sales tax, a benefit for shoppers there.
Reconfirm your flight, train, or bus times 24-48 hours before departure.
Arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before international flights.

Final Pack & Home Bound

Ensure all belongings are packed, and dispose of waste responsibly.

Luggage & Clean-up

Ensure all your belongings are packed.
Weigh your luggage to avoid overweight bag fees.
Dispose of any remaining waste responsibly.
Leave your accommodation in good order, double-check for forgotten items.

Smooth Return Journey

Arrange your transportation to the airport or station in advance.
Review flight status for any last-minute delays or gate changes.
Have boarding passes and necessary IDs readily accessible.
Allow ample time to reach the airport, account for potential traffic.

Efficient Departure

Strategic planning for departure ensures a relaxed and organized journey home from the Pacific Northwest.

Double-check everything to avoid last-minute rush or forgotten items.

Pre-Trip Checklist