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Sausalito Travel Checklist

Sausalito Travel Checklist

Sausalito California, USA Travel Guide

Chronological Planning Timeline

This chronological timeline guides your trip planning, from early bookings to final checks.

Organize Your Journey

Strategically plan each phase for a more relaxed trip.

+ Months Before Your Trip

Passport & Visa

Check passport expiration. Apply for visa or ESTA well in advance.

Flights & Accommodation

Book flights and Sausalito accommodation early for better pricing and availability.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance, covering medical and trip disruptions.

Month Before Your Trip

Key Attractions

Book Muir Woods parking/shuttle and Alcatraz tickets; they sell out.

Itinerary & Bookings

Outline daily itinerary. Book tours, activities, or popular dinner reservations.

Financial Readiness

Notify bank/credit card companies of travel dates. Acquire International Driving Permit if renting a car.

Week Before Your Trip

Confirmations & Packing

Reconfirm all bookings. Begin packing, considering Sausalito's layers.

Digital Prep

Download essential apps. Charge all electronic devices.

Document Copies

Gather physical and digital copies of important documents, stored separately.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these items for a guaranteed experience.

Bookings List

  • Flights.
  • Accommodation (highly recommended).
  • Muir Woods (parking or shuttle access).
  • Alcatraz (from San Francisco).

Pre-Trip Research Topics

Inform yourself on these areas for easier navigation.

Information Areas

  • Public transport routes and schedules.
  • Parking limitations and costs in downtown Sausalito.
  • Golden Gate Ferry and Blue & Gold Fleet schedules.
  • Local events or festivals during your visit.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Ensure your home is secure and cared for while you are away.

Home Security

  • Lock all doors and windows.
  • Set alarms.
  • Unplug unnecessary electronics.
  • Arrange for mail to be held or picked up.

Pet & Plant Care

  • Arrange for pet care if needed.
  • Water indoor plants or ask a neighbor to help.
  • Ensure pet sitters have emergency contacts.
  • Prepare enough food and supplies for pets.

Contacts

  • Leave emergency contact information with a trusted person.
  • Share your itinerary with family or friends.
  • Provide contact details for your accommodation.
  • List important medical information if relevant.

Helpful Tip

Create a digital folder with copies of all your important documents and reservations for easy access.

Arrival & Departure

The initial hours upon arrival greatly influence your trip's tone. A smooth departure ensures a relaxed end.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Customs & Immigration

    Clear customs at your entry airport. Have passport and visa/ESTA ready.

  • 2
    Baggage Claim

    Collect your luggage from the carousel.

  • 3
    Ground Transportation

    Locate your pre-planned transport option (BART, rideshare, rental car).

Orientation & Finances

  • Orientation Strategies

    Upon reaching Sausalito, find your accommodation and nearby landmarks.

  • Currency & Purchases

    Withdraw cash from an ATM if needed. Use a credit card for initial purchases.

  • Transit to Accommodation

    Follow your planned route to your lodging, considering traffic conditions.

Departure Preparation

Souvenir Shipping

If you bought larger items, inquire about shipping services from the shop.

Keep receipts for all purchases.

Customs & Duty

Be aware of your home country's customs regulations and duty-free limits.

The US does not have a national VAT or sales tax refund program for tourists.

Departure Timing

Allow ample time for airport transit, accounting for potential traffic.

Confirm flight details and check for gate changes.

Helpful Tip

Download offline maps before arrival to navigate without internet access.

Return Trip Planning

Prepare for your departure efficiently to ensure a relaxed end to your trip.

Souvenir & Shipping

  • If you bought larger souvenirs or artwork, inquire about shipping services from the shop.
  • Keep receipts for all purchases.
  • Be aware of your home country's customs regulations and duty-free limits.
  • The US does not have a national VAT or sales tax refund program for tourists.

Departure Logistics

  • Allow ample time for transit to the airport (2-3 hours for domestic, 3+ for international flights).
  • Account for potential traffic, especially during rush hour.
  • If taking the ferry back to San Francisco, arrive at the terminal at least 15-30 minutes before departure.
  • Confirm your flight details and check for any last-minute delays or gate changes.

Baggage & Customs

Ensure your luggage aligns with airline and customs regulations.

Packing Compliance

  • Pack your luggageAccording to airline rules.
  • Verify checked and carry-on baggageWeight and dimensions.
  • Ensure all documentsAre easily accessible.
  • Secure valuable itemsIn your carry-on bag.

Final Preparations

  • Complete online check-in for your flights.
  • Reconfirm transportation from Sausalito to the airport.
  • Review the latest weather forecast for Sausalito and your destination.
  • Fully charge all electronic devices.

Additional Tip

Take photos of your packed luggage and its contents for insurance purposes.

This documentation can be helpful in case of lost or damaged bags.