Oakland Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Comprehensive Travel Preparation

A step-by-step approach simplifies your pre-travel actions.

Planning Timeline

Structured steps to guide your preparations.

Months Ahead

Passport validity check, U.S. Visa/ESTA application.

Submit ESTA applications well in advance.

Flight booking OAK or SFO.

Research and book your flights to Oakland International Airport (OAK) or San Francisco International Airport (SFO).

Secure major accommodations, insurance acquisition.

Book places to stay, especially if traveling during peak season.

Weeks Prior

Tour, attraction, restaurant reservations.

Book Alcatraz or fine dining reservations.

Pet/house-sitting, health recommendations.

Arrange pet care. Consult healthcare provider for travel.

Bank notification, driver's license, IDP.

Inform bank of travel plans. Obtain International Driving Permit if needed.

Days Before

Climate-appropriate clothing, document assembly.

Pack layers. Gather physical and digital copies of documents.

Download essential apps, Clipper Card acquisition.

Download navigation, transit, and ride-sharing apps.

Prescription medications, reservation confirmation.

Gather medications in original containers. Confirm all bookings.

Required Bookings

bookings for a smooth journey.

Confirmations

Flights to/from Oakland/Bay Area.
Accommodation (hotel, Airbnb, etc.).
Popular tours (e.g., Alcatraz, specific Wine Country tours).
Certain fine dining restaurants, especially on weekends.

Pre-Trip Research

Familiarize yourself with Oakland's niceties.

Informational Dive

Oakland's distinct neighborhoods and character.
Public transport systems (BART and AC Transit).
Current events, festivals, or temporary exhibitions.
Safety considerations for urban environments.

Home & Health Readiness

Ensure peace of mind while away with these steps.

Security Measures

Secure windows and doors.
Set alarms.
Stop mail and newspaper delivery.
Arrange for trusted collection of mail.

Utility Management

Unplug unnecessary electronics.
Pay bills due during your absence.
Turn off unnecessary water valves.
Consider smart home routines for lights.

Pet & Plant Care

Arrange for pet-sitting or house-sitting.
Ensure plants are watered or cared for.
Leave clear instructions for caregivers.
Consider automatic watering systems for plants.

Insurance Insights

Travel insurance from World Nomads provides coverage for unexpected events during your journey.

Arrival & Settling In

Your initial steps in Oakland set the tone for your visit.

Initial Airport Actions

1
Immigration & Customs:
Clear procedures at OAK or SFO. Passport and visa/ESTA ready.
2
Baggage Claim:
Collect checked luggage.
3
Ground Transport:
Proceed to your pre-planned BART, taxi, or ride-share.

Getting Oriented

Accommodation:
Locate using downloaded maps or transit apps.
Neighborhood Scan:
Identify grocery stores, pharmacies, public transit stops nearby.
Cash & Essentials:
Withdraw cash from ATM. Quick stop for water and snacks.

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs & Shipping

Plan luggage space for souvenir acquisition.

Consider shipping larger items via USPS, FedEx, or UPS.

Sales Tax

The United States does not refund sales tax to tourists.

Sales tax is added at the point of purchase.

Airport Timing

Allow ample check-in and security time (OAK/SFO).

Check flight status online before airport departure.

Checklist Completion

Returning a rental car with sufficient time for shuttle transfer to the terminal.

Additional Departure Details

Packing Insights

Ensure all belongings are packed.
Verify nothing left behind in accommodation.
Passport and boarding pass easily accessible.
Organize packed items effectively.

Travel Item Organization

Packing organizers. (Eagle Creek)
Universal adapter for electronics.
Small first-aid kit for minor issues.
Portable power bank for devices.

Critical Departure Notes

Confirm these details before heading to the airport.

Flight & Transit

Flight details, terminal, and gate information.Important for navigation.
Airport transportation arrangements.Consider traffic conditions.
Check flight status online.For real-time updates.
Rental car return timing.Allow for shuttle to terminal.

General Advice

Check local weather for packing.
Be mindful of local advisories.
Customer service contacts for airlines/hotels.
Don't hesitate to seek local assistance.

Thoughtful Departure

A smooth departure marks the successful completion of your Oakland experience.

The planning and preparation contribute greatly to travel enjoyment.

Oakland Travel Checklist