Pre-Trip Checklist: Gulf Shores

Essential Preparations

A structured timeline makes trip preparation smoother, allowing you to secure the best options and avoid last-minute rushes.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Breaking down your planning into phases makes the process manageable and less stressful.

-6 Months Before

Dates & Budget

Determine travel dates and establish a realistic budget.

Flights & Lodging

Book flights into PNS/MOB and secure accommodation.

Visa/ESTA

For international visitors: apply for U.S. Visa or ESTA.

-2 Months Before

Tours & Charters

Book specific tours, fishing charters, or major attraction tickets.

Travel Insurance

Review and purchase a Travel insurance policy.

Passport Check

Confirm passport validity for at least six months beyond your stay.

-2 Weeks Before

Packing & Gear

Create a detailed packing list and gather items, including Packing organizers.

Bank Notification

Notify bank/credit card companies of travel dates.

Home Arrangements

Arrange for pet care or house-sitting if needed.

Required Advance Bookings

Reservations

Accommodation is always the first and most important booking.
Rental Car is highly recommended for exploring Gulf Shores.
Flights should be booked early if you plan to fly into PNS or MOB.
Popular deep-sea fishing charters or specific guided tours.

Pre-Trip Research

Learnings

Read recent reviews of restaurants and attractions.
Familiarize yourself with beach flag warnings and rip current safety.
Review Gulf State Park maps and trail options.
Understand local tipping customs in the U.S.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Security Checks

Lock all doors and windows.
Set alarms if you have them.
Check security cameras.
Consider setting timed lights.

Mail & Utilities

Stop mail and newspaper deliveries.
Arrange for a trusted person to collect deliveries.
Adjust your thermostat to save energy.
Unplug unnecessary electronics.

Plants & Waste

Water plants or arrange for someone to do so.
Empty all trash bins to prevent odors or pests.
Arrange for pet care if applicable.

Packing Smart

Make a detailed packing list and check off items as you pack. This helps prevent leaving something important behind.

Arrival Checklist

The initial hours upon arrival set the tone for your trip. A structured approach ensures a smooth transition.

First Steps Upon Landing

1
Luggage Retrieval
Collect your luggage from the baggage claim area.
2
Rental Car Pickup
Proceed to the rental car counter (if applicable) to pick up your vehicle.
3
Direct to Accommodation
Navigate directly to your hotel or condo using GPS.

Orientation Strategies

Local Amenities
Locate nearby grocery stores (Publix, Walmart), pharmacies, and gas stations.
Major Roads
Familiarize yourself with Highway 59 and Beach Boulevard.
Visitor Guide
Grab a local visitor guide from your hotel lobby or a visitor center.

First Day Essentials

Currency & ATMs

ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals if local currency is needed.

Most places accept credit/debit cards.

Initial Groceries

Consider a trip to the grocery store for initial purchases like Bottled water, snacks, and breakfast items.

Especially useful if staying in a condo with a kitchen.

Transportation from Entry

Ensure your rental car's GPS or phone's navigation is set with your accommodation's address.

Have shuttle or rideshare contacts ready if pre-booked.

Grocery Stop Insight

Plan your first stop at a grocery store if staying in a condo. Stock up on water, snacks, and breakfast items to save time later.

Departure Preparation

A smooth departure from Gulf Shores requires thoughtful planning to avoid stress and ensure timely transit.

Souvenirs & Shipping

For fragile, oversized, or liquid souvenirs, plan for proper packing.
Inquire about shipping services from the retailer if needed.
Be aware of airline baggage limits for your luggage.
Sales taxes are paid at the point of purchase and are not refundable to tourists.

Return Trip Essentials

Double-check your flight times and gate information.
Confirm your transportation to the airport if not driving your rental car.
Ensure all personal belongings are packed; do a final sweep of all rooms.
Dispose of all trash and clean up your accommodation as per check-out instructions.

Departure Timing

Allow ample time for travel to the airport, considering potential traffic during peak hours.

Airport Logistics

Travel time to Pensacola (PNS) or Mobile (MOB) airportsPlan extra
Potential traffic, especially Saturday morning in summerFactor in
Time for rental car return processAccount for
Shuttle to the terminalAllocate time

Final Accommodation Steps

Confirm check-out instructions with your accommodation provider.
Ensure kitchen and living areas are tidy as requested.
Strip beds and place laundry as indicated.
Turn off all lights and air conditioning before leaving.

Flight Status Check

Confirm your flight status the night before your departure.

This helps you adjust your wake-up time and departure to the airport.

Pre-Trip Checklist