Pre-Trip Checklist: Carthage

Essential Preparations

Divide your planning into phases for effective task management.

Chronological Planning Timeline

actions to take at different stages before your trip.

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (6+ months) and apply for visas.

Flights & Insurance

Book international flights; purchase comprehensive Travel insurance.

Health Check

Consult health professional for vaccination recommendations.

Month Before

Accommodation & Itinerary

Book main accommodations; plan a rough itinerary.

Financial Prep

Inform bank/credit card companies of travel plans.

Driving & Adapters

Arrange International Driving Permit (if driving); purchase universal adapter.

Week Before

Confirm & Copy

Confirm all reservations; copy documents (physical & digital).

Pack & Check

Pack with climate & modesty in mind; check weather forecast.

Home Affairs

Secure home; arrange mail/pet care; notify emergency contacts.

Pre-Trip Research

A understanding of your destination enriches the journey.

Required Bookings

Secure arrangements in advance to avoid disappointment.

Essential Reservations

Flights and main accommodations require advance booking.
Specialized tours (e.g., Sahara desert trips) also benefit from advance booking.
Booking early can lead to better availability.
Early reservations sometimes result in better prices.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours in a new country benefit from thoughtful organization.

First Steps

Clear immigration swiftly.
Collect luggage from baggage claim.
Exchange currency or withdraw cash at ATM.
Purchase a local SIM card for connectivity.

Orientation

Locate your hotel on a map.
Identify the nearest TGM station.
Acquire a local map from airport or hotel.
Seek initial information from hotel staff.

Transport & Cash

Pre-book private transfer or take a licensed taxi.
Confirm taxi fare or insist on the meter.
Exchange enough Dinars for initial transport and needs.
Focus on immediate needs like bottled water or a quick snack.

Travel Note

Pre-purchasing your combined Carthage ticket at the first site you visit can save a few minutes.

Departure Preparation

Plan your exit to avoid last-minute rush and ensure a smooth journey home.

Souvenirs & Shipping

1
Timing Purchases
Purchase souvenirs a few days before departure for packing time.
2
Shipping Larger Items
If shipping large items, arrange with a local courier service in Tunis.
3
Receipts for Customs
Keep receipts for potential customs checks at your home country.

Airport & Flight Readiness

Arrival Time
Arrive at Tunis-Carthage Airport (TUN) 2-3 hours before international flights.
Time Allowance
This allows time for check-in, security, and passport control.
Ferry Departures
For ferry departures, check with your operator for specific timing.

Return Journey Planning

Confirm Details

Confirm your flight details or ferry schedule.

Double-check times and terminals.

Pack Smart

Pack according to airline baggage rules.

Avoid extra fees at the airport.

Access Documents

Ensure all important documents are accessible.

Keep passport and boarding pass readily available.

Home Preparation Reminder

Secure your home (lock doors, windows). Arrange for mail to be held or collected. Pay any upcoming bills. Inform trusted neighbors of your absence.

VAT Refund Procedures

Note that Tunisia does not currently offer a formal VAT refund scheme for tourists on general purchases.

General Purchases

No formal VAT refund for most retail goods.
This differs from many European countries.
Prices generally include local taxes.
Focus on fair pricing through bargaining where appropriate.

Other Customs Notes

Be aware of customs regulations for importing goods back home.
Check airline restrictions for specific items in luggage.
Keep all purchase receipts for high-value items.
Adhere to rules on antiques or protected items.

Baggage Considerations

Airline Rules

Check your airline's baggage policy.
Confirm weight and size limits for carry-on and checked bags.
Be aware of liquid restrictions for hand luggage.
Consolidate items with packing organizers like Eagle Creek packing cubes.

Financial Wrap-up

Spend remaining local currency or exchange it.
Verify all credit card transactions.
Keep records of major purchases.
Consider setting a budget for last-minute expenses.

Final Reminder

Ensure your transport to the airport or port is arranged in advance.

This final step eliminates departure day stress.

Pre-Trip Checklist