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St John Travel Checklist

St John Travel Checklist

St John US Virgin Islands Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Plan your trip in stages to avoid last-minute rushes and secure optimal arrangements.

Pre-Trip Planning Timeline

A chronological guide to ensure nothing is overlooked for your St. John adventure.

3-6M

Months Before

Book Flights to STT

Secure round-trip flights for potentially better rates, especially for high season.

Secure Accommodation

Reserve your villa, hotel, or campsite; popular properties book up quickly.

Check Passport Validity

Non-U.S. Citizens: Ensure validity 6+ months. U.S. Citizens: Recommended for air travel and BVI trips.

1M

Month Before

Book Rental Car

Book your Jeep early due to limited local fleets and high demand, notably in peak season.

Purchase Travel Insurance

Consider coverage for interruption, cancellation, and medical emergencies, especially in hurricane season. World Nomads.

Acquire Essential Gear

Buy Reef-safe sunscreen, Water shoes, a Snorkel set, and effective repellent.

1W/24H

Week/Hours Before

Finalize Packing

Lay out items, check weather, recharge your gadgets (Portable power bank too).

Download Essentials

Download offline maps and key apps for travel to your mobile device.

Home Preparations

Organize pet care, house-sitting, mail, and newspaper pauses.

Required Advance Bookings

Certain reservations are vital for a smooth St. John trip, especially during peak season.

Reservations

  • Flights to Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas.
  • Accommodation (villa, hotel, or Cinnamon Bay Campground).
  • Rental car (Jeep) on St. John due to limited fleets.
  • Popular boat charters, specifically private ones, sell out fast.

Pre-Trip Research Areas

Familiarize yourself with practical aspects prior to your trip.

What to Know

  • Basic island topography and routes.
  • Driving on the left side of the road.
  • Local ferry schedules between St. Thomas and St. John.
  • Tipping customs and local etiquette.

Home Preparation Checklist

Ensure your home is secured and ready for your absence.

Security

  • Make sure doors and windows are locked.
  • Unplug unnecessary electronics.
  • Activate security systems if you have them.
  • Use timed lights for an occupied appearance.

Utilities & Plants

  • Adjust thermostat locations for productivity.
  • Check for leaky faucets or running toilets.
  • Ensure indoor plants are watered or arrange for care.
  • Turn off the beaten path water valve if leaving for an extended period.

Services & Mail

  • Organize pet care or house-sitting arrangements.
  • Handle your post hold/forwarding with the post office.
  • Pause newspaper or other regular deliveries.
  • Notify banks/credit card companies of your travel plans. Capital One Travel can be a resource.

Booking Reminder

Flights, accommodation, and rental cars are critical to reserve in advance.

Arrival Checklist

Your initial steps upon landing ensure a smooth transition to island life.

First Steps at STT

  • 1
    Clear Customs & Border Protection

    Complete immigration procedures at Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage

    Retrieve your checked baggage from the luggage carousel.

  • 3
    Locate Transport to Red Hook

    Find your pre-arranged taxi or rental car shuttle to the ferry terminal.

Transition to St. John

  • Take Taxi to Red Hook Ferry Terminal

    Enjoy the scenic ride across St. Thomas to the ferry dock.

  • Purchase Ferry Tickets to St. John

    Buy your passenger boat tickets at the Red Hook terminal for Cruz Bay.

  • Orient in Cruz Bay

    Note the main street, Starseafood Market, and safari taxi stand upon arrival.

On-Island Arrival Tasks

Rental Car Adjustment

If renting a car, make time to adjust to operating a vehicle on the left-the right side of the road.

Drive cautiously, especially on winding or hilly roads.

Cash & Initial Purchases

Withdraw cash from an ATM in Cruz Bay for smaller purchases, tips, and safari taxi fares.

Nearly all places accept credit cards, but cash is helpful to have.

Transport to Accommodation

From the Cruz Bay ferry dock, arrange a safari taxi to where you're staying.

Alternatively, pick up your rental vehicle from a nearby office in Cruz Bay.

Orientation Tip

Take a moment to orient yourself upon arrival at the Cruz Bay ferry dock.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure to ensure a stress-free exit from the island.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Purchase souvenirs a few days before departure to avoid rushing.
  • Inquire about shipping amenities at the U.S. Post Office in Cruz Bay or local shops.
  • Remember the U.S. Virgin Islands duty-free allowance for U.S. Citizens ($1,600 and 5 liters of alcohol).
  • No VAT refund procedures apply, as there is no VAT or sales tax.

Pre-Departure Timing

  • Allow ample the time for the ferry ride from Cruz Bay to Red Hook, St. Thomas.
  • Arrive at the Cruz Bay ferry dock at least 30 minutes before your desired ferry.
  • Arrive at STT airport 2-3 hours before domestic flights, 3 hours for international.
  • Security lines can be long; budget extra time.

Packing Considerations

Double-check your belongings and luggage for a smooth transition through security.

TSA & Luggage

  • Confirm return flight explains the day before.
  • Repack luggage carefully.
  • Ensure carry-on liquids comply with TSA regulations.
  • Verify you have all important documents.

Practical Departure Tips

  • Weigh your bags before heading to the airport to avoid excess fees.
  • Keep your passport or ID easily accessible for airport checks.
  • Keep any receipts for duty-free allowance records.
  • Settle any outstanding bills or rental agreements before heading to the ferry.

Departure Wisdom

Give yourself ample time for the boat and the airport check-in process on departure day.

Rushing creates unnecessary stress and could impact your travel plans.