MileHacker Logo
Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

US Virgin Islands

Essential Preparations

Plan your trip meticulously for a smooth journey.

Chronological Planning

Outline your tasks across different timeframes.

1

-6 Months Before

Book Flights & Accommodation

Secure your lodging and travel, especially for high season.

Check Passport Validity

Ensure passport validity for non-U.S. Citizens.

Visa/ESTA Application

Apply for U.S. Visa or ESTA if required.

2

-2 Months Before

Plan Detailed Itinerary

Outline daily activities, balancing exploration and relaxation.

Make Dining Reservations

Book fine dining, especially for weekend evenings.

Arrange Ground Transport

Confirm rental car or airport transfers.

3

-2 Weeks Before

Confirm All Reservations

Reconfirm flights, lodging, and tours.

Get Cash & Downloads

Obtain U.S. Dollars and download offline maps.

Home Preparation

Arrange pet care, hold mail, secure home.

Advance Booking Essentials

Secure elements of your trip early.

Bookings List

  • Flights and accommodation
  • Rental car (if desired)
  • Popular boat tours and excursions
  • Fine dining (for peak times)

Pre-Trip Research

Familiarize yourself with the island.

Research Recommendations

  • Review guide sections 2 and 3
  • Read recent travel blogs or forums
  • Watch travel videos for visual sense
  • Check for current conditions and tips

Home Preparation

Secure your home before heading out.

Pet & Plant Care

  • Arrange pet sitting or care
  • Organize plant watering
  • Notify house sitters
  • Leave emergency contacts

Mail & Utilities

  • Hold mail with postal service
  • Cancel newspaper deliveries
  • Unplug unnecessary electronics
  • Save energy and prevent issues

Home Security

  • Lock all doors and windows
  • Notify trusted neighbors
  • Dispose of perishables
  • Empty all trash cans

Final Preparation Tip

Consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations and any health precautions.

Arrival Checklist

Your first steps on St. Thomas for a smooth transition.

First Steps on Arrival

  • Clear Customs

    Proceed through U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

  • Collect Baggage

    Retrieve your checked baggage from the carousel.

  • Find Transport

    Locate pre-arranged transport or the taxi stand.

Island Orientation

  • Settle In

    Check into your hotel, resort, or rental.

  • Familiarize Surroundings

    Explore your immediate area: beaches, restaurants, stores.

  • Ask Hotel Staff

    Inquire for local recommendations or current advisories.

Initial Setup & Transport

Currency & Cash

Exchange currency or withdraw cash from an ATM for immediate needs.

Small denominations (e.g., $1s, $5s) for taxis and vendors are helpful.

Immediate Necessities

Purchase bottled water and any immediate needs like reef-safe sunscreen.

Consider obtaining a local SIM card if not already acquired.

Airport to Lodging

Take a licensed taxi or pre-arranged shuttle from Cyril E. King Airport (STT) to your accommodation.

Remember to drive on the left if you are picking up a rental car!

Smooth Arrival Tip

Have your passport or required ID ready for airport checks, even as an U.S. Citizen.

Departure Preparation

Ensure a smooth departure from St. Thomas.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Purchase duty-free items in advance of departure
  • Understand U.S. Customs allowances ($1,600 per person)
  • Keep all receipts for duty-free purchases
  • Confirm shipping customs and costs with vendor

Tax Information

  • VAT refund procedures do not apply
  • U.S. Virgin Islands is an U.S. Territory
  • No Value Added Tax (VAT) system
  • Purchases are generally sales tax-free

Departure Timing

Allocate sufficient time for airport processes.

Airport Arrival Times

  • Flights to U.S. Mainland:1.5 - 2 hours before
  • Onward International Connections:2 - 3 hours before
  • This time allows for check-in and security.Important
  • Avoid last-minute rush for a smoother experience.Stress-Free

Return Trip Tasks

  • Reconfirm flight details and check in online
  • Pack liquids according to TSA regulations
  • Return rental car with full gas tank if required
  • Settle any outstanding bills with accommodation

Final Check

Have your passport or required ID readily accessible for airport check-in and security.

Smooth departures begin with preparedness.