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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Mediterranean Coast, Turkey

Essential Preparations

Good planning gives a smooth and enjoyable trip to Ölüdeniz.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Knowing what to do at various stages makes your preparations simpler.

1

+ Months Before Departure

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (150 days from arrival). Research visa for your nationality. Apply for e-Visa if applicable.

Flights

Book your major international flights. If planning internal flights within Turkey, book those too.

Accommodation

Research and book your accommodation. Booking early, especially for high season, brings better rates and availability.

2

Month Before Departure

Confirmations

Reconfirm all your major bookings: flights, hotels, airport transfers, and any pre-booked tours.

Travel Insurance

Arrange and purchase comprehensive Travel insurance. Confirm it covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and adventure activities.

Bank Notification

Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates and destination.

3

Week Before Departure

Packing & Documents

Pack your luggage. Organize all essential documents. Keep digital copies on phone and cloud storage.

International Driving Permit

If you plan to rent a car, get an International Driving Permit from your local automobile association.

Power Adapter & Apps

Purchase a Universal Travel Adapter. Download essential apps (Google Maps, Google Translate, BiTaksi) and charge electronics like your Anker Power Bank.

Required Advance Bookings

Reservations

  • Flights: International and any domestic flights within Turkey.
  • Accommodation: Your hotel, apartment, or villa.
  • Airport Transfers: Pre-booking these guarantees a smooth arrival.
  • Popular Tours/Activities: For high season, pre-book activities like paragliding or specific popular boat trips.

Pre-Trip Research

A little knowledge about your destination adds value to your experience.

Research Topics

  • Culture & History: Read up on Turkish history and culture to make your trips better.
  • Local Etiquette: Familiarize yourself with local customs and etiquette to have respectful interactions.
  • Safety Guidelines: Review general safety guidelines for Turkey and any specific advisories for the region.
  • Itinerary Refinement: Review your planned itinerary and make any final adjustments before departure.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Before you leave, make sure your home is ready for your absence.

House & Pet Care

  • Arrange for pet care or house-sitting if needed.
  • Stop mail and newspaper delivery or arrange for a neighbor to collect them.
  • Share your itinerary and emergency contact information with a trusted friend.
  • Secure your home: lock all windows and doors, set alarms.

Documents & Connectivity

  • Organize all essential documents (passport, visa, insurance, driver's license).
  • Consider purchasing a local SIM card if you have not arranged international roaming.
  • Download essential apps like Google Maps and Google Translate.
  • Charge all your electronics, including your phone and camera.

Financial & Final Checks

  • Convert a small amount of currency to Turkish Lira or plan initial ATM withdrawals.
  • Pay any bills that will come due during your trip.
  • Unplug unused appliances to save energy.
  • Check your luggage weight limits with your airline to avoid fees.

Important Note: Travel Insurance

Comprehensive Travel insurance protects against unexpected medical emergencies and trip cancellations. Confirm it covers adventure activities like paragliding.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours in Ölüdeniz can be smooth with a clear plan.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs:

    Go through immigration and customs at Dalaman Airport. Have your passport and e-Visa (if applicable) ready.

  • 2
    Transfer:

    Find your pre-booked airport transfer or the designated taxi stand.

  • 3
    Currency:

    Withdraw local currency (Turkish Lira) from an ATM or exchange money at a reputable office.

Orientation Strategies & Purchases

  • Local Map:

    Upon arrival, ask hotel staff for a local map of Ölüdeniz and surroundings.

  • Local Information:

    Ask hotel staff for recommendations on nearby ATMs, dolmuş stops, reputable restaurants, and supermarkets.

  • Initial Purchases:

    Make certain you have enough cash for immediate needs. Purchase bottled water as soon as you can.

Departure Preparation

Souvenir & Shipping

Do any last-minute souvenir shopping. If you bought large items, ask about shipping options from the vendor or a local PTT branch in Fethiye.

Check your home country's customs regulations for imports. Keep receipts for larger purchases.

VAT Refund Procedures

If eligible for a VAT refund, confirm you have the needed documentation. Allow extra time at Dalaman Airport for customs verification Before checking in your luggage.

You show the items and receipts to customs officials for the refund process.

Pre-Departure Timing

Check your flight status online for any delays. Factor in travel time from Ölüdeniz to Dalaman Airport (approx. 1 hour).

Arrive at Dalaman Airport at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled international flight departure.

Return Trip Details

Make certain all your necessary documents (passport, boarding pass, any return visa) are readily accessible. Check luggage weight limits to avoid excess baggage fees. Double-check your hotel room for any forgotten items before check-out.

Final Preparations at Home

A smooth departure makes your trip end on a positive note.

Before You Leave

  • Arrange for pet care or house-sitting if needed.
  • Stop mail and newspaper delivery, or ask a neighbor to collect them.
  • Share your itinerary and emergency contact info with a trusted family member or friend.
  • Secure your home: lock all windows and doors, set alarms.

Financial & Electronic Readiness

  • Convert a small amount of currency to Turkish Lira or plan your initial ATM withdrawals upon arrival.
  • Pay any bills that will come due during your trip to avoid late fees.
  • Charge all your electronics, including your phone, camera, and power bank.
  • Download essential apps for navigation, translation, and communication.

Emergency Contacts at Home

Leave clear instructions and contacts for home emergencies.

Information

  • Your itinerary details
  • Contact numbers for your trusted friend/family
  • Information on pet care or house-sitter
  • Home alarm codes or access instructions

Packing Efficiency

  • Pack your luggage according to the climate and your planned activities.
  • Check your luggage weight limits with your airline to avoid unexpected excess baggage fees.
  • If you use packing cubes or organizers, this might reduce bag volume.

Important Departure Reminder

Arrive at Dalaman Airport early for your departure.

The check-in and security processes can take time, specifically during peak travel seasons.