Tuscon Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Complete Essential Preparations

Your Planning Timeline

Follow these steps for a calm and ready journey.

3M

Three Months Before

Passport/Visa

Check passport validity. Apply for an U.S. Visa if needed, or an ESTA if eligible.

Flights

Research and book international flights. Consider TUS or PHX.

Travel Insurance

Acquire comprehensive travel insurance, such as from World Nomads.

1M

One Month Before

Accommodations

Book all lodging (hotels, rentals, dude ranches).

Rental Car/Shuttle

Reserve a rental car or airport shuttle.

Health

Visit your doctor, current vaccinations and refill prescriptions.

1W

One Week Before

Confirmations

Confirm all flight, accommodation, and tour reservations.

Currency

Order some U.S. Dollars or plan CASH machine withdrawals upon arrival.

Home Prep

Arrange for pet care, mail hold, and house-sitting.

Required Advance Bookings

Reservations

Flights: Secure your flights early for better prices and availability.
Accommodations: Book your lodging, especially during high season or major events.
Rental Car: Reserve a rental car if you plan to explore beyond the city center.
Popular Tours: Book popular tours like Kartchner Caverns well in advance, as they often sell out.

Pre-Trip Research Suggestions

A little homework enhances your trip experience.

Explore & Learn

Weather: Research Tucson's seasonal weather patterns to pack appropriately.
Attractions: Learn about the main attractions, their operating hours, fees, and accessibility.
Local Culture: Learn about Tucson's unique Sonoran Desert history and culture.
Food Scene: Explore the UNESCO City of Gastronomy designation and must-try dishes.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Ready your home for your absence for peace of mind.

Security & Utilities

Security: Secure your home. Lock all windows and doors.
Utilities: Adjust thermostat, unplug unnecessary electronics.
Mail/Newspapers: Stop or hold mail and newspaper deliveries.
Inform Contacts: Inform a trusted friend or family member of your travel dates and emergency contacts.

Pet & Plant Care

Pets: Arrange for pet care.
Plants: Arrange for plant watering.
Spare : Leave a spare with a trusted neighbor.
Security Cameras: Activate home security cameras if you possess them.

Packing & Preparation

Packing List: Finalize your packing list.
Documents: Organize all essential documents (passport, visa, insurance, copies).
Apps: Download recommended apps (navigation, ride-share, weather).
Packing Organizers: Use gear from Eagle Creek for efficient packing.

Important Note

A rough itinerary helps, but stay flexible to discover unexpected delights.

Complete Your Arrival Checklist

A smooth arrival sets a positive tone for your journey.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration/Customs
Complete procedures efficiently. Have your passport and documents ready.
2
Ground Transport
Locate your pre-arranged ground transport (rental car, shuttle, taxi, ride-share) or public transit.
3
Accommodation Check-in
Head to your accommodation to check in and drop off luggage.

Orientation Strategies

Local Map/App
Use a physical map or a navigation app to get oriented with your neighborhood and local amenities.
Visitor Center
Visit a local visitor center (e.g., Visit Tucson) for maps, brochures, and current event information.
Local SIM
Acquire a local SIM card or activate your eSIM for reliable mobile data and communication.

Currency & Transportation

Currency Exchange

Withdraw some U.S. Dollars from an ATM for immediate cash needs.

Nearly all places take credit cards, but cash is excellent for smaller vendors.

Initial Purchases

Acquire any immediate essentials like a reusable water bottle or snacks.

Consider a local grocery store for basics.

Airport Transfers

From TUS: Use pre-booked shuttles, rental cars, taxis, ride-shares, or Sun Tran bus service.

From PHX: Take a Groome Transportation shuttle or drive your rental car to Tucson.

Arrival Success

Completing these steps smooths your transition into the Tucson experience, allowing you to focus on discovery.

Prepare for Departure

Plan your departure thoughtfully to conclude your trip gracefully.

Souvenir & Shipping Notes

Shopping: Acquire souvenirs beforehand to avoid last-minute rush.
Shipping: For large or fragile items, inquire about shipping options.
Customs: Be aware of international shipping costs and customs regulations for your home country.
VAT Refund: The U.S. Does not operate a national Value Added Tax (VAT) system, so VAT refund procedures do not apply.

Return Trip Details

Pack Smart: Pack your luggage efficiently, leaving room for souvenirs.
Confirm: Confirm your return flight details and airport transfer arrangements.
Documents: Possess all required travel documents for your return journey.
Home Sweet Home: Anticipate your return, ensuring arrangements for pickup, pet retrieval, or mail collection.

Pre-Departure Timing

Arrive at the airport with ample time for a stress-free departure.

Airport Guidelines

Tucson International Airport (TUS) Domestic:1.5-2 hours before
Tucson International Airport (TUS) International (connecting):2-3 hours before
Hotel Check-out:Allow ample time
Final Meal:Enjoy a last Sonoran meal

Packing Efficiency

Utilize packing cubes for organization and space-saving.
Weigh your luggage to avoid overweight fees at the airport.
Roll clothes tightly to minimize wrinkles and maximize space.
Wear your heaviest footwear and outerwear on your trip to save luggage space.

Smooth Transitions

Have a safe trip until your next adventure!

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