San Francisco Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Essential Preparations

A timeline to support your preparations.

Pre-Travel Actions

Strategic steps for an organized departure.

+ Months Ahead

Passport Validity

Confirm validity (6+ months beyond travel dates).

Visa/ESTA

Apply for or renew your visa or ESTA, if applicable.

Flight & Alcatraz

Research and book flights and Alcatraz tickets.

Month Ahead

Tours & Dining

Book specific tours, performances, or fine dining reservations.

Day Trips

Plan day trips and transportation for these excursions.

Bank Notification

Notify your bank and credit card companies of travel dates.

Week Ahead

Confirm Bookings

Confirm all your bookings and reservations.

Packing List

Check the weather forecast and finalize your packing list.

Download Apps

Download core applications, like MuniMobile and mapping apps.

Advance Booking Necessities

Alcatraz tickets are necessary. Popular dining and tours also need early booking.

Useful Bookings

Alcatraz tickets are essential.
Popular fine dining establishments.
Major performances and shows.
Certain guided tours.

Home Pre-Departure

Steps to prepare your home before travel.

Home Readiness

Hold mail delivery.
Secure your residence.
Unplug electronics.
Arrange for plant care.

Research & Preparation

Dive into neighborhood guides, food blogs, and transportation options to make your time count in San Francisco.

Local Areas

Deep dive into local areas.
Discover unique characteristics.
Plan walks in specific districts.
Find hidden gems.

Culinary Discoveries

Research dining options.
Explore local eateries.
Read food blogs for insights.
Plan culinary adventures.

Getting Around

Understand transit networks.
Review BART and Muni lines.
Consider walkability.
Optimize travel between sites.

Important Travel Insurance

Purchase Travel insurance before your trip. World Nomads for options.

Arrival Checklist

These are the initial steps upon landing in San Francisco.

Initial Procedures

1
Immigration & Customs
Clear immigration and customs procedures.
2
Baggage Claim
Collect your luggage from the baggage claim.
3
Connectivity
Connect to the airport Wi-Fi or activate your local SIM/eSIM.

Ground Transport & Orientation

Ground Transportation
Proceed to your chosen ground transportation.
Orientation
Use a map app to orient yourself and find your way.
Accommodation & Transit
Locate your accommodation and the nearest public transport stops.

Purchases & Connectivity

Currency Access

ATMs are available at the airport for cash withdrawal.

Major credit cards are widely accepted for purchases.

Connectivity

Activate your local SIM or eSIM for continued connection.

Connect to airport Wi-Fi for immediate access.

Transit Card

Purchase a Clipper Card if you plan to use public transport extensively.

This physical card works across different transit systems.

Arrival Guidance

BART is the fastest choice for airport transfers. Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers upon arrival.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for an easy departure from San Francisco.

Shopping & Shipping

Plan for any last-minute souvenir shopping.
If purchasing large items, inquire about shipping services.
Be aware of customs rules for your home country.
The United States has no national VAT or sales tax refund system for tourists.

Timely Departure

Allow ample time to reach the airport or station.
For international SFO flights, 3 hours before departure is a good approach.
Confirm your flight or train details and check in online.
Pack necessary documents and medications in your carry-on bag.

Important Reminders

Verify all travel documents. Medications belong in your carry-on.

Document Checklist

Passport validity
Visa/ESTA status
Flight confirmations
Accommodation details

Final Checks

Review itinerary one last time.
Charge all electronic devices.
Organize receipts for expenses.
Back up important photos.

Departure Information

Plan extra time for airport check-in and security during peak hours. Consider Eagle Creek for travel gear.

The United States does not have a national VAT or sales tax refund system for tourists.

San Francisco Travel Checklist