MileHacker Logo
Florida Keys Travel Checklist

Florida Keys Travel Checklist

Florida Keys Florida, USA Travel Guide

Detailed Timeline

A chronological guide for optimal planning.

Your Planning Journey

Steps to take before your Florida Keys adventure.

1

-6 Months Before

Research & Budget

Identify desired activities and set a realistic financial plan.

Documents

Ensure passport is valid; apply for ESTA or visa if applicable.

Travel Bookings

Secure air travel and lodging, especially for high season.

2

-2 Months Before

Ground Transport

Arrange transportation upon arrival and during your stay.

Insurance

Medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and activity coverage.

Dining & Activities

Secure spots for sought-after dining and special experiences.

3

-4 Weeks Before

Confirmations

Double-check dates and times for flights, lodging, and tours.

Home Care

Secure arrangements for pets or property while away.

Financial Alerts

Inform your financial institutions about your travel dates.

Home Preparation

Secure your home before departure.

Pre-Departure Checklist

  • Lock all doors and windows, set alarms.
  • Stop mail/newspaper delivery.
  • Arrange for plant care.
  • Pay bills due during your trip.

Arrival Orientation

Smooth first steps upon arrival.

Initial Steps

  • Clear immigration and customs.
  • Collect luggage from baggage claim.
  • Pick up rental car or transfer.
  • Inform family/friends of safe arrival.

More Planning Tips

Further preparation for a worry-free vacation.

Travel Insurance

  • Comprehensive coverage for emergencies.
  • Trip cancellation/interruption policy.
  • Specific activity coverage (e.g., diving).
  • Consider World Nomads for travel insurance.

Healthcare Consult

  • Consult healthcare provider for vaccinations.
  • Ensure routine vaccinations are current.
  • Discuss any health concerns.
  • Pack necessary medications.

Document Copies

  • Copies of passport, visa, reservations.
  • Digital copies in cloud storage.
  • Email copies to yourself.
  • Keep separate from originals.

Document Organization

Create a physical and digital folder for all your bookings and copies of documents. This organization provides a backup in case of loss or theft.

Departure & Post-Trip

Smooth departure and reflection.

Departure Checklist

  • 1
    Souvenir & Shipping

    Purchase souvenirs in advance; understand shipping costs for large items. Keep receipts for high-value purchases.

  • 2
    Return Trip Logistics

    Confirm flight/ferry details, pack luggage carefully for weight limits, and account for all personal belongings.

  • 3
    Airport Time

    Allow ample time to return rental car, reach airport/ferry, and clear security, especially from MIA or FLL.

Useful Resources

  • Souvenir Shops

    Visit local shops for authentic souvenirs, such as those from Eagle Creek for travel bags.

  • Airport Information

    Check airport websites for current departure times and security wait times.

  • Luggage Weight

    Confirm airline luggage policies to avoid overweight fees.

Additional Departure Tips

VAT/Sales Tax

The United States has no nationwide Value Added Tax (VAT) refund program for tourists.

You cannot claim back sales tax on purchases made.

Traffic Considerations

Factor in potential traffic delays on U.S. 1, especially during peak hours.

This holds true when departing from Miami International Airport (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL).

Final Checks

Confirm all flight details for your return journey. Ensure all personal belongings are accounted for.

A smooth departure helps cap off a pleasant trip.

Important Note

Always monitor local news and official alerts closer to your departure date, notably if traveling during hurricane season.

Post-Trip Reflection

Relive your adventures and inspire future travels.

Memory Capture

  • Review your photos and videos.
  • Curate your favorite visual memories.
  • Write down highlights in a travel journal.
  • Share your experiences with friends and family.

Learning & Growth

  • Reflect on new cultural perspectives gained.
  • Consider ways your trip supported personal growth.
  • Embrace the lasting sense of calm from "island time."
  • Identify inspirations for your next adventure.

Cost Breakdown Overview

A summary of typical expenses for a Keys trip.

Estimated Spending

  • Accommodation (per night)$150 - $500+
  • Dining (per day)$50 - $150+
  • Activities & Tours$50 - $300+
  • Transportation (daily)$20 - $100

Future Planning

  • Consider revisiting during different seasons for new experiences.
  • Plan a trip around seasonal seafood harvests.
  • Explore lesser-known islands beyond West.
  • Dream about your next tropical destination.

Smart Trip Conclusion

A well-planned trip leaves you with great memories and minimal stress.

Take time to reflect and share your Florida Keys story.