MileHacker Logo
Denver Travel Checklist

Denver Travel Checklist

Denver Colorado, USA Travel Guide

Your Denver Planning Timeline

Follow these steps for a relaxed and fulfilling Denver adventure.

Strategic Planning for Your Denver Trip

Successful travel results from thoughtful preparation, ensuring every detail is considered.

1

Months Ahead

Flights & Stays

Book flights and main accommodations, especially for high season.

Research & Docs

Research major activities, check passport validity, apply for ESTA/Visa.

Big Picture

Begin researching major activities and tours you wish to experience.

2

Month Ahead

Finalize Itinerary

Complete your itinerary, including planned day trips.

Book Key Experiences

Book specific tours, restaurant reservations, and national park entries.

Transport & Safety

Arrange for a rental car if needed, and get travel coverage.

3

Week Ahead

Confirm & Pack

Confirm all bookings, start packing layers for variable Denver weather.

Financial Alerts

Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans.

Home & Documents

Arrange pet/house care, print digital docs, and secure your home.

Bookings and Reservations

Secure these items in advance to ensure availability and peace of mind during your trip.

Required Advance Bookings

  • Flights to and from Denver International Airport.
  • Accommodation (hotels, hostels, vacation rentals).
  • Rental car (if you plan to drive outside the city).
  • Popular tours and national park timed entry reservations.

Pre-Trip Research

Arm yourself with knowledge for a richer experience, making your visit more informed.

Information to Gather

  • Read reliable guidebooks and official tourism websites.
  • Check weather forecasts and review climate patterns for your dates.
  • Learn about local customs and tipping practices for respectful interactions.
  • Familiarize yourself with Denver's public transportation system.

Home Front Preparations

Secure your home for peace of mind while traveling, handling essential tasks before you go.

Mail & Plants

  • Stop mail delivery.
  • Arrange for plant care.
  • Inform a neighbor of your absence.
  • Water indoor plants thoroughly.

Electronics

  • Unplug unnecessary electronics.
  • Turn off lights.
  • Turn off Wi-Fi if not needed for smart devices.
  • Conserve energy.

Contacts & Security

  • Inform a trusted person of your itinerary.
  • Secure all doors and windows.
  • Leave a spare with a trusted contact.
  • Provide emergency contact information.

Travel Insurance Recommendation

For comprehensive travel insurance, consider World Nomads.

Arrival Checklist for Denver

These steps aid a smooth transition from arrival at DEN to where you're staying and initial city exploration.

Initial Arrival Procedures

  • 1
    International travelers:

    Clear immigration and customs at Denver International Airport.

  • 2
    Luggage collection:

    Collect your luggage from the baggage claim area.

  • 3
    Phone service:

    Activate your local SIM card or eSIM, or confirm roaming service.

Getting Oriented & Settled

  • A-Line train:

    Use the A-Line from DEN to Union Station for a first impression of downtown.

  • Orientation:

    Obtain a physical map or use a navigation app to orient yourself.

  • Accommodation:

    Check into your accommodation as a priority.

Getting to Your Stay

A-Line Train

The fastest and most efficient way from DEN to Union Station downtown.

Get tickets at the station or via the RTD app.

Taxi / Rideshare

Taxis and ride-share services (Uber/Lyft) offer door-to-door convenience.

Find designated pick-up areas outside baggage claim.

Pre-booked Shuttle

Certain hotels or private services offer pre-booked shuttle options.

Verify information and pick-up locations in advance.

Packing Smart

Packing organizers from Eagle Creek can streamline your luggage and keep items accessible.

Departure Preparation from Denver

Plan for a smooth departure, handling any last-minute tasks and leaving on time.

Souvenirs & Luggage

  • Purchase souvenirs with enough time for proper packing.
  • Arrange for shipping large or fragile items.
  • Check your airline's baggage allowances and weight limits.
  • Avoid unexpected excess baggage fees.

Airport Timing & Confirmation

  • Allow ample travel time to Denver International Airport.
  • Factor in potential security wait times.
  • Aim for 1.5-2 hours before domestic flights, 2.5-3 hours for international.
  • Confirm flight details AROUND the clock before departure.

VAT Refund Procedures

Important Tax Information

  • National VAT or sales tax refund:Not applicable in the U.S.
  • No national program:The U.S. Does not have a federal system for tax refunds to tourists.
  • State-specific sales tax:Sales tax applies at the point of purchase.
  • No tourist refund:Tourists are not eligible for sales tax refunds.

Return Trip Essentials

  • Check-in online to save time at the airport.
  • Confirm all your things are packed.
  • Ensure nothing is left behind at your accommodation.
  • Have your passport and boarding pass readily accessible.

Digital Document Safety

Create a digital folder on your phone or cloud storage for all your booking confirmations, passport scans, and important contact numbers.

This acts as a fallback if you lose physical documents.

← Previous
Denver Travel Resources
← Back to Denver
Next →
Why Visit Denver? Inspiration, Culture, Unique Experiences

Next Up: Why Visit Denver? Inspiration, Culture, Unique Experiences

Continue to Why Visit Denver? Inspiration, Culture, Unique Experiences
Denver Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation