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Sacramento Travel Checklist

Sacramento Travel Checklist

Sacramento California, USA Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Organize your trip effectively with this chronological planning timeline.

Chronological Planning

A phased approach ensures everything is covered.

1

-6 Months Prior

Passport validity

Ensure it remains valid for at least six months beyond your planned U.S. Stay.

Visa/ESTA application

Complete applications well in advance if eligible for Visa Waiver Program.

Flight & accommodation booking

This is especially important for high season travel or major events.

2

-2 Months Prior

Itinerary planning

Plan your detailed itinerary, including specific day trips and activities.

Reservations

Make reservations for popular tours, fine dining, or special events that need advance booking.

Medical preparations

Arrange any medical appointments or prescription refills to acquire adequate medication.

3

-2 Weeks Prior

Confirm bookings

Confirm all bookings for flights, hotels, car rentals, and tours.

Pack luggage

Ensure you have climate-appropriate clothing and activity-specific gear.

Connectivity & Banking

Arrange mobile phone service (eSIM or local SIM) and inform your bank of travel plans.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these elements ahead of time for a smoother trip.

Bookings

  • Flights and Accommodation: Book early for best prices and availability.
  • Rental Car: Book your rental car ahead of time if driving, especially during peak season.
  • Popular Old Sacramento Tours: Tours like the Old Sacramento Underground Tour can sell out.
  • Fine Restaurant Reservations: Reserve for high-demand restaurants. Consider World Nomads Travel Insurance for coverage.

Pre-Trip Research

Gain local knowledge before you arrive.

Informed Traveler

  • Familiarize yourself with Sacramento's neighborhoods and public transport system.
  • Research local events and festivals that coincide with your visit.
  • Read up on California's Gold Rush history to add to your museum visits.
  • Check current predictions for the weather Sacramento to fine-tune your packing. For organized packing, explore Eagle Creek products.

Home Preparations

Ensure peace of mind while away from home.

Notifications

  • Notify family or friends of your itinerary.
  • Stop mail and newspaper delivery.
  • Arrange for pet care if applicable.
  • Provide emergency contacts.

Home Security

  • Secure your home: lock all doors and windows.
  • Put on alarms.
  • Consider setting timers for lights.
  • Ensure all points of entry are secured.

Energy & Appliances

  • Turn off unnecessary appliances.
  • Adjust your thermostat to save energy.
  • Check for dripping faucets or running toilets.
  • Close water valves to washing machine, if comfortable.

Important Reminders

Check visa requirements for your nationality. Travel insurance for unforeseen circumstances.

Arrival Checklist

These are the first steps to take upon arriving in Sacramento.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Clear immigration and customs

    At your port of entry (SMF or a larger international airport like SFO/LAX).

  • 2
    Collect luggage

    From the baggage claim area.

  • 3
    Proceed to ground transportation

    Following signs for taxis, rideshares, buses, or rental car shuttles.

Orientation & Initial Purchases

  • Local SIM/eSIM activation

    Acquire immediate connectivity if not done pre-trip.

  • Orient yourself

    Using a map or navigation app on your phone. Locate your accommodation.

  • Cash & essentials

    Use an ATM for cash. Purchase a SacRT pass or activate ZipPass. Buy a Reusable water bottle.

Transportation from Entry Point

From SMF Airport

Use the SacRT bus (Route 142), rideshare services (Uber/Lyft), a taxi, or the rental car shuttle.

These options connect you to your accommodation.

From Sacramento Valley Station

This applies if arriving by Amtrak or bus.

Use SacRT light rail/bus, rideshare, or taxi services to get to your lodging.

Direct Connections

All transport possibilities have direct routes from entry points to central Sacramento.

Choose based on your budget and time preference.

Ground Transport Tips

Familiarize yourself with Sacramento's transport options before landing. This makes onward journeys smoother.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for a smooth departure from Sacramento.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Plan for your souvenir purchases.
  • Be aware of luggage weight and size limits if flying to avoid excess baggage fees.
  • Consider shipping larger items home via USPS or a private courier (FedEx, UPS).
  • Factor in shipping costs and your home country's customs duties for items purchased abroad.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • The United States does not have a national Value Added Tax (VAT) or Goods and Services Tax (GST) refund system for tourists.
  • Sales tax is paid at the point of purchase.
  • This tax is not refundable for visitors.
  • This policy applies universally across states.

Pre-departure Timing

Allocate adequate time for departure procedures.

Timing Recommendations

  • Allow a lot of time for the airport/station transfers.3-4 hours for international flights.
  • Allow time for check-in and security screening.2 hours for domestic flights.
  • Return your rental car with a full tank of gas.Avoid additional fees (unless prepaid).
  • Confirm your flight, train, or bus details.Including departure times and terminal/platform information.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Pack your luggage efficiently.
  • Ensure liquids are in checked bags (if over TSA limits for carry-ons).
  • Restricted items are not in your carry-on.
  • Have your passport and boarding pass readily accessible.

Final Checks

Ensure all personal belongings are collected from where you are staying. Settle any outstanding bills, like hotel minibar charges or incidental fees.

An Organizer for travel documents maintains order.

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