Ayvalik Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Your Ayvalık Trip Planner

Careful scheduling for a smooth travel experience.

Planning Your Journey

Careful scheduling for a smooth travel experience.

Three Months Ahead

Passport Check

Verify passport validity for 6+ months beyond departure.

Visa Application

Research and apply for Turkish e-Visa or traditional visa. Use Official e-Visa system.

Flight Bookings

Book international and domestic flights, especially for peak season.

One Month Before

Insurance & Banking

Arrange comprehensive travel insurance (World Nomads). Inform your bank of travel plans.

Itinerary & Transfers

Finalize Ayvalık itinerary. Pre-book airport transfers like Havaş shuttles.

Driving Permit

Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) if renting a car.

One Week Prior

Confirmations

Confirm all flight, hotel, and tour reservations. Reconfirm airport transfers.

Document Prep

Gather original passport, e-Visa (if applicable), and reservation copies. Keep digital copies.

Device & Kit

Charge devices. Organize your Travel medical kit with prescriptions and first aid.

Advance Bookings

Booking flights, hotels, and international ferries in advance is often beneficial.

Flight & Accommodation

Flights: booking well in advance is beneficial for price and availability.
Hotels/Guesthouses: recommended for high season, public holidays, or specific properties.
International Ferries: if traveling to/from Lesbos, book tickets in advance, especially for car passage.
Private Transfers: useful for convenience if traveling with a group or lots of luggage.

Pre-Trip Research

Prepare yourself with local insights.

Cultural & Safety Focus

Local Culture and Etiquette: Read up for respectful interactions.
Safety Information: Review current safety advisories from your government's travel department.
Home Preparation: Arrange pet care, mail, security, and notify contacts.

Home Readiness Before Departure

Before leaving, ensure your home is secure.

Pet & Mail Care

Arrange for pet-sitting or boarding.
Hold your mail or ask a trusted neighbor to collect it.
Inform family or close friends of your travel plans.
Settle any upcoming bills to avoid issues while away.

House Security

Ensure windows are locked securely.
Store valuables in a safe place.
Use timers for lights to simulate occupancy.
Test any security cameras or alarm systems.

Digital Safeguards

Download offline maps for Google Maps.
Download the offline Turkish language pack for Google Translate.
Charge all electronic devices (phone, camera, power bank).
Consider a power bank for on-the-go charging.

Currency Tip

Consider withdrawing a small amount of Turkish Lira from your bank at home for initial expenses upon arrival, though ATMs are widely available.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours in a new destination can be disorienting. This checklist helps.

Initial Steps

1
Immigration & Customs:
Clear immigration and customs efficiently with your passport and e-Visa (if applicable).
2
Baggage Claim:
Collect your luggage from the baggage claim carousel.
3
Currency & SIM:
Locate an ATM for Turkish Lira or an official SIM provider store for local connectivity.

Orientation Strategies

Check-in:
Head to your accommodation to check in and settle your belongings.
Initial Purchases:
Withdraw Turkish Lira from an ATM; try to get smaller denominations for immediate purchases.
Transportation:
Locate your pre-booked transfer, Havaş shuttle, or official taxi stand for transport to your accommodation.

Arrival Logistics

Clearance

Clear immigration and customs efficiently with your passport and e-Visa (if applicable).

Collect your luggage and prepare for the next step of your journey.

Connectivity

If you plan to use a local SIM, find an official provider store at the airport or in Ayvalık.

Purchase and activate your SIM for seamless communication during your stay.

Orientation

Head to your accommodation to check in and settle your belongings.

Orient yourself with a local map, often available at hotels or information points.

Important First Steps

Downloading offline maps and language packs before arrival saves data and simplifies initial navigation.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure to ensure a smooth exit from Ayvalık.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs and gifts well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
If you purchased large items (like olive oil), inquire about shipping options from local vendors.
Be aware of customs regulations and shipping costs to your home country.
If applicable, process VAT (KDV) refunds at the airport customs office before checking luggage.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allow ample travel time to the airport (Izmir ADB or Balıkesir EDO).
For international flights, arrive 2-3 hours before departure; for domestic flights, 1.5-2 hours.
For bus or ferry departures, arrive at least 30-60 minutes before scheduled departure.
Pack luggage efficiently, keeping any liquids or restricted items separate for security checks.

Final Checks

Before leaving, double-check everything.

Accommodation Review

Confirm return flight, bus, or ferry details.
Ensure your home is ready for your return (e.g., mail pick-up arranged).
Do a final sweep of your accommodation to ensure nothing is left behind.
Check power outlets for forgotten chargers.

Return Trip Preparation

Reconfirm your return flight, bus, or ferry details.
Ensure your home is ready for your return (e.g., mail pick-up arranged, essentials stocked).
Do a final sweep of your accommodation to ensure you have not left anything behind.
Unplug electronics and turn off lights before final exit.

Last-Minute Tip

Have your travel documents, including passport and tickets, easily accessible. A smooth departure starts with good organization.

Consider using travel organization products from Eagle Creek for a more efficient packing and unpacking experience.

Ayvalik Travel Checklist