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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Delaware, USA

Essential Preparations Overview

A chronological planning timeline guides you through what to handle at different stages before your trip.

Pre-Travel Timeline

Steps to take at various intervals before your departure.

1

-6 Months Before Summer Travel

Accommodation

Book your accommodation. This is important, especially for summer travel.

Rental Car

Reserve a rental car.

Cape May-Lewes Ferry

If you plan to take your car on the ferry, booking your spot ahead is a good idea.

2

-2 Months Before

Activity Research

Research activities and attractions. Create a loose itinerary based on your interests.

Specific Tours & Reservations

Book specific tours or dinner reservations, especially for popular restaurants on peak season weekends.

Event Check

Check local event calendars for festivals or concerts during your visit.

3

-2 Weeks Before

Confirm All Details

Double-check accommodation, flights, rental cars, and tour bookings. Review DART Beach Bus schedules.

Weather & Packing

Check the weather forecast. This helps you refine your packing list.

Home & Document Prep

Arrange pet/house sitting. Verify passport validity, visa/ESTA status, and driver's license.

Required Advance Bookings

Certain bookings are important for a smooth summer visit.

Reservations

  • Accommodation: Essential for summer high season travel.
  • Rental Car: Essential if you need a car during summer.
  • Cape May-Lewes Ferry: Booking vehicle spots in advance is strongly suggested.
  • Popular Dinner Restaurants: Make reservations for weekend dinners, especially during peak season.

Pre-Trip Research

Information to Research

  • Current Events and Festivals: Check the Visit Rehoboth and Chamber of Commerce websites for happenings.
  • DART Beach Bus Schedules: Confirm updated schedules, as they are seasonal.
  • Local News: Read some local news or community information to get a feel for the area.
  • Home Preparation: Stop mail/newspapers, set lights, secure doors/windows, arrange plant/pet care, dispose of perishables, adjust utilities.

Arrival and Departure Guidance

Steps for a smooth arrival and departure in Rehoboth Beach.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • Collect luggage.
  • Secure transport (rental car, shuttle, taxi).
  • Navigate to accommodation.
  • Check in to your lodging.

Orientation Strategies

  • Unpack and settle in.
  • Locate nearest grocery/pharmacy/bus stop.
  • Walk the Boardwalk for town layout.
  • Visit Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center.

Departure Preparations

  • Purchase last-minute souvenirs (no sales tax!).
  • Factor in time/cost for shipping large items.
  • Be aware of accommodation checkout time.
  • Allow ample travel time to airport/ferry/highway.

Currency Exchange and Initial Purchases

ATMs are available for cash. Most establishments accept major credit cards.

If using the DART bus, consider purchasing a Daily Pass via the app or from the bus driver (exact change needed) upon arrival.

Departure Checklist

Final steps to finalize your trip and head home smoothly.

Souvenir & Shipping

  • 1
    Purchase Souvenirs

    Buy any last-minute souvenirs from local shops. Delaware has no sales tax, which applies to all purchases.

  • 2
    Shipping Considerations

    If you purchased large items or many gifts, factor in the time and cost for shipping them home. UPS, FedEx, and USPS services are available.

  • 3
    VAT Refund Procedures

    VAT (Value Added Tax) refund procedures are not applicable in the U.S. There is no sales tax in Delaware, so tax refunds on purchases are not a concern.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Checkout Time Awareness

    Be aware of your accommodation's checkout time to avoid issues.

  • Travel Time Allowance

    Allow ample time for travel to the airport, ferry terminal, or highway. Factor in potential traffic, especially if departing on a summer Sunday.

  • Final Checks

    Reconfirm your flight, ferry, or bus times. Pack a small bag with journey essentials (snacks, water, entertainment, documents). If staying in a vacation rental, follow specific checkout instructions.

Transportation from Entry Point to Accommodation

Rental Car

Drive directly to your accommodation after picking up your rental car.

Ensure you have GPS or map directions ready.

Shuttle/Taxi/Rideshare

Use pre-booked or on-demand services for direct transport to your lodging.

Confirm pickup locations at the airport or ferry terminal.

DART Bus

If arriving at the Rehoboth Park & Ride, take the DART Beach Bus to a stop near your accommodation.

Check bus routes and schedules beforehand.

First Steps Upon Arrival

Upon arrival, collect any checked luggage. Pick up your rental car, find your shuttle, or locate a taxi/rideshare. Navigate to your accommodation and complete the check-in process.

Home Preparation

Complete these tasks at home for peace of mind during your trip.

Security and Mail

  • Mail/Newspapers: Stop mail and newspaper delivery or arrange for a neighbor to collect them.
  • Lights/Security: Set timers for lights to make your home appear occupied.
  • Home Security: Make sure all doors and windows are locked securely.

Pet and Plant Care

  • Plant/Pet Care: Arrange for plant watering and pet care if you have them.
  • Perishables: Dispose of any perishable food items from the refrigerator.
  • Utilities: Turn down the thermostat and unplug unnecessary electronics to conserve energy.

Important Document Procedures

Understand steps for lost documents and emergency contacts.

Lost Documents

  • Step 1: Contact local police (Rehoboth Beach Police)File a report
  • Step 2: Contact your country's embassy/consulateSeek replacement travel documents

Initial Purchases & Setup

  • ATMs: Readily available for cash needs. Most establishments accept major credit cards.
  • DART Daily Pass: If using the DART bus frequently, consider purchasing a Daily Pass immediately upon arrival (from bus driver with exact change or via DART Pass app).
  • Basic Supplies: If staying in a vacation rental, a quick trip to a grocery store for basics like water, snacks, or breakfast items is useful.

Transportation from Entry Point to Accommodation

Options include driving your rental car, using pre-booked shuttles or on-demand taxi/rideshare services.

If arriving at the Rehoboth Park & Ride, take the DART Beach Bus to a stop near your lodging.